How Do I Get a CRA Business Number?

Find out how to get a CRA business number for your company so you can start taking advantage of all the benefits the CRA has to offer.

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Introduction

A Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) business number is a nine-digit accounting number that identifies your business to the CRA. To get a CRA business number, you have to register your business with the CRA.

There are a few things you need to know before you register your business:

-Your business type ( sole proprietorship, corporation, etc.)
-The structure of your business ( who owns it and how is it run?)
-The products and services you offer
-Your business location
-Your contact information

You will also need to have some basic information about your business, such as your:

-Business name and operating name ( if different from your legal name)
-Contact information (phone number, email address, mailing address)
-Date of birth

If you are registering a corporation, you will need:

-Incorporation documents from the province or territory in which your company was incorporated

What is a CRA Business Number?

A CRA business number is a unique nine-digit number that the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) assigns to businesses. It is also sometimes called a program account number, business identification number, or federal business number. The CRA uses this number to identify businesses and track their interactions with the agency.

Businesses need a CRA business number to:
-register for GST/HST
-file corporate income tax returns
-pay employee salaries and wages
-remit other withholdings, such as income tax and EI premiums

To get a CRA business number, you can:
-apply online
-call 1-800-959-5525
-visit a CRA Tax Services office

Applying for a CRA Business Number

Before you can start your business, you need to apply for a CRA business number. This number will be used for all your dealings with the CRA, including reporting GST/HST.

To apply for a CRA business number, you will need to:

-Determine the type of business structure you will have (sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporation)
-Choose a business name
-Register your business name (if applicable)
-Get a federal tax ID number (if applicable)
-Determine your business location
-Determine your start date
-Apply for any required licenses or permits
-Apply for your CRA business number

What information do I need to apply for a CRA Business Number?

To get a business number from the CRA, you will need:
-Your business legal name, address, and contact information
-The business type and structure (sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporation)
-The business start date
-Your Social Insurance Number (SIN) or your employee identification number (EIN)

You can apply for a CRA Business Number online, by mail, or by fax.

How long does it take to get a CRA Business Number?

The Business Number is issued within two business days after the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) receives your completed Application for a Business Number (BN).

How much does it cost to get a CRA Business Number?

There is no cost to register for a CRA business number. You can register for a business number and get your program accounts by:
-telephoning the Business Enquiries line
-completing the online registration form
-mailing in the paper registration form

What are the benefits of having a CRA Business Number?

There are many benefits to having a CRA business number, including:

– simplifies dealings with the CRA;
– allows you to open a business bank account;
– speeds up processing of your tax returns; and
– may be required by other government departments or agencies.

What happens if I don’t have a CRA Business Number?

If you don’t have a CRA Business Number, you won’t be able to register for a GST/HST account. This means you’ll be charged GST/HST on all of your business sales, and won’t be able to claim any GST/HST credits.

Can I get a CRA Business Number for my personal business?

Yes, you can get a CRA Business Number for your personal business. You will need to contact the CRA and provide them with your business information. They will then provide you with a Business Number, which you can use for your business activities.

I’m already registered with the CRA, do I need to get a Business Number?

If you are already registered with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) for GST/HST, payroll, or corporate income tax, you do not need to register for a Business Number. You will automatically be issued a Business Number when you register for one of these programs.