Most businesses and non-profits need to register their business name (operating name) with Registry of Joint Stock Companies if it’s different than their legal name. A business name, also called an operating name, is an additional name that your business or non-profit can operate under.
Register your business name (operating name).
In addition to the legal name of your business or non-profit, you can also operate under a business name. A business name is also called an operating name or ‘doing business as’ name. For example, the legal name of your business is 1234567 Nova Scotia and you’ve also registered ABC Catering as your business name (operating name).
Most businesses and non-profits need to register a business name (operating name) to operate under the business name in Nova Scotia.
You don’t have to register your business name (operating name) if the business name (operating name) is a registered trademark.
Information you file with Registry of Joint Stock Companies is available to the public.
Most businesses and non-profits need to register their business name (operating name) to operate under a name that’s different than their legal name. You need to be an incorporated company, society or co-operative to register a business name (operating name).
It should take 1 to 2 weeks to get the Certificate of Registration and Business Number. It can take longer if more information is needed or if your registration hasn’t been filled in correctly.
| Activity | Fee |
|---|---|
| Registration | $68.55 |
| Renewal | $68.55 |
Credit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover), debit card, cheque, money order, cash. Make your cheque or money order payable to the Minister of Finance. Payment options may vary depending on how you register.
When you pay online you need to pay the fee by credit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, Visa Debit, Debit Mastercard).
Make sure you have:
When you register online you need to create an account or sign in. You also need to upload any supporting documents in PDF format, including required signatures.
Other ways to registerYou can use the Application for Registration of a Business Name, Sole Proprietorship or Partnership in Nova Scotia Form (PDF 614 kB) if you’re unable to register online. Send your completed application and payment by mail. Or visit Registry of Joint Stock Companies or Access Nova Scotia.
You need to renew your registration every year. You should get a renewal notice by mail or email before the renewal date. It’s your responsibility to renew on time.