How to Incorporate in BC

Incorporating in BC can be done in a variety of ways. Depending on your specific situation, it is best to do some research and determine what is necessary. This will help you understand how to register your business and what you can expect to pay for. It will also allow you to avoid some of the pitfalls.

Articles of incorporation

Articles of incorporation are documents that establish a company in British Columbia. They include information about the corporation’s purpose, as well as the rules and regulations that govern its operation.

The articles of incorporation are filed with the government and serve as legal proof that the business exists. In most cases, the articles contain mandatory provisions, as well as optional provisions.

Articles of incorporation can be used by any business type, including sole proprietorships, corporations, and partnerships. A properly structured corporation is protected from personal liability. Also, incorporated companies have the advantage of receiving preferential tax treatment. It is important to ensure that the articles are tailored to the business.

For a simple, basic corporation, the incorporation process can be easy. However, larger businesses may require a more complex set of documents.

An incorporated corporation can continue to operate for as long as it is in existence. Typically, the life of a corporation extends beyond the founders. Some states require the incorporators to publish the fact that the company is incorporated in local newspapers.

If the corporation is federally incorporated, it must file a form with the government. This document must include a completed name search, Form 3–Change of Registered Office Address, and Form 6–Changes Regarding Directors.

Articles of incorporation can specify the number of directors, as well as the minimum and maximum number of shares. Among other things, they may also allow the corporation to call special meetings of stockholders.

Business licenses

If you’re planning on opening a new business, or expanding an existing one, you’ll need to acquire a business licence. The legal requirements for your business vary depending on the type of business you plan to operate and the location you’ll be conducting your activities.

A business is defined as a professional service or commercial undertaking that is for profit. There are two types of businesses: sole proprietorships and corporations. Sole proprietorships are appropriate for small business owners who are self-employed. However, corporations are more costly and require more paperwork to set up.

If you want to register a business in BC, you have several options. You can do so through a lawyer, a Small Business BC office, or online. Alternatively, you can do it yourself by filing Articles of Incorporation.

Before you can register a business, you will need to submit a business name request. This requires submitting your personal information and your business’s structure. Once approved, you will be given a Name Request (NR) number. After you’ve registered your business, you’ll need to renew your licence each year.

Most BC businesses must obtain a business licence before operating. Businesses must also register and update their public records. Depending on the type of business, you may need to obtain permits and inspections. For example, you might need to apply for health approval.

The cost of getting a licence varies by province, and the fee is not always the same. Some businesses are exempt from the fees, including home occupations and businesses with an income under $12,000. To be eligible, you must report your income on a renewal questionnaire.

Tax numbers

If you are incorporating in BC, you are likely going to need a few of the more popular tax numbers. These are a good way to formalize your business. While you aren’t required to get them before you start doing business, they will come in handy once you begin to sell your products and services.

A Business Number (BN) is a nine-digit number that identifies a business or legal entity. It is a standard identifier that makes dealing with municipal and provincial governments easier. Depending on the jurisdiction, a BN can be used to register for any of the many program accounts offered by CRA.

The BN is also important in the incorporation process. For instance, you will be given one if you are incorporating a sole proprietorship. In the case of a corporation, you will be given two.

This nine-digit number stays with your business. It also identifies your business to the federal government and various provinces. Various accounts are assigned to your BN, ranging from payroll to import/export.

While the nine-digit business number is free, it is a necessary step if you are incorporating in BC. Once you receive your BN, you’ll be able to use it as an identifier for all communications with the Corporate Registry.

You can get your BN online, or you can go the traditional route. When you apply for your BN, you’ll be asked to provide a few details, including a name, address, and contact information.

Trademark registrations

Getting a trademark in Canada is a great way to protect your business. Trademarks are a symbol, design, word, or logo that you can use to distinguish your company from others. They are registered in the Canadian Trademarks Registry and provide exclusive rights for the name for ten years.

You don’t have to be a lawyer to understand how to get a trademark. However, it is important to note that the requirements are complex. A trademark agent can help you complete the application process.

In general, the first step is to choose a name. The name should not be too similar to an existing B.C. corporation or a trademark that has already been registered in another country. This is to avoid potential legal action from another business.

Next, you will need to register the name. You can do this through BC Registry Services for a sole proprietorship or a partnership. If you have a corporation, you can also register it through the BC Corporate Registry.

Once you have registered the name, you will have to pay a government fee of $250. This includes a $200 CIPO registration fee.

The application process is complicated and can take up to 18 months. It is recommended to consult a qualified attorney before deciding to register a name. Your chances of success will be greatly increased by consulting an expert.

The trade-marks Office is a part of Industry Canada and makes an initial determination as to whether or not a trade-mark is registrable. They will assess its registrability based on several criteria. For example, are the words in the mark descriptive? Are there special circumstances governing the registrability of the mark?

Business cards

Business cards are an important part of corporate branding. They are also an efficient way to spread the word. In addition, the right card can make you memorable.

A smart card is a great way to show off your brand’s capabilities. It’s also a good idea to pick a material that will give you an elegant look. For example, you can try designing your card out of wood. The design may have connotations associated with the quality of your products or services, such as the eco-friendly qualities of your food.

Some of the most impressive business cards on the market are actually interactive. Using an app, you can upload your artwork or select a design template. Once the artwork has been approved, a graphic designer will add in the necessary information.

Although the gimmick might be a little over the top, the fact that it works does. For instance, you could reward your customer with a gift or cash back. Or you could use it to pay for office supplies. This is a great way to promote your business while showing off your personality.

The top of the flag symbol is 5 mm from the top edge of the card. Moreover, the top of the card should be about 3 mm from your signature.

While a smart card might be a bit of a reach, a metallic card is definitely worth a mention. A metallic card’s luster might be enough to catch the eye of your prospective client.

Website

If you are looking to incorporate a business in British Columbia, you may be wondering where to begin. The Business Corporations Act governs incorporation in BC.

The Act provides an outline of the steps that must be taken to form a corporation in B.C. You can also learn about the requirements for registering a business name and filing documents. In addition, you can also find out more about the costs associated with incorporating.

There are many different forms of companies in British Columbia. You can choose a private or a numbered company. Numbered corporations provide a legal ending to your business.

Names can be a difficult decision, so you want to be sure that your chosen name is suitable. It’s important to choose a unique and descriptive name.

After you’ve determined your preferred business name, it’s time to submit the Name Request Form. This will help you find out if it is already used by another organization. Applicants can list up to three possible business names. If your first choice is rejected, you can request an alternate name.

You can apply for a paper or an electronic form. Once you have submitted the application, you will need to wait for the Certificate of Incorporation. This can take up to 27 days.

You’ll also need to have a registered office in British Columbia. If your corporate record book is kept at a separate location, you will need to provide that address. Your registered office will need to be in a place where it can be found by the public.