Choosing and Registering your Business

Choose and Register Your Business Name

As you prepare to open your business, you must choose a unique name. A business name consists of three main parts:

  • A distinctive element (something memorable that helps your business name stand out from others)
  • A descriptive element (so that people can tell from your name what the company does)
  • A corporate designation (only if your company is incorporated, e.g. Ltd.)

 

Create a list of business names. The name you want to use may already be registered. Note: a company name may differ from the product name(s).

 

Tips to choose a business name

  • Your name should be easy to pronounce in the language of your target market
  • Your business name should describe the services you offer
  • Choose a short name that is easy for people to remember
  • Your name should distinguish you from your competitors
  • Canadians do not always name businesses after themselves or their family members (check to see what the standard is for your type of business)

Once you decide on your business name, contact the Registry of Joint Stock Companies (RJSC) to register your business. You must conduct a name search at this point to make sure that no one else uses the name you selected.

 

Apply to reserve a name here:

https://beta.novascotia.ca/reserve-name-your-business-or-non-profit If the Registry of Joint Stock Companies approves the name for your use, you can register or incorporate your business.

Registration takes a couple of days. If your name is not accepted, you have to choose a different name and go through a name search again.

If your name is accepted, continue with your registration: fill out the forms provided by the RJSC (they are available online), submit them, and pay the fees. The RJSC will mail you a Certificate of Registration.

Once you have chosen an available name for your business, you should register it with the government. When you register your business, you receive a nine-digit Business Number. You require this number to pay taxes, apply for licenses, and import or export goods.

If you plan to have other Canadian business locations outside Nova Scotia, follow the procedures to register your business in that region.