Updated October 2024
Step 1: Obtain your Company Key
The company key is similar to a personal identification number. It is a 9 digit code that is unique to your business and should be kept confidential. Your Business name or BN plus the company key allows you to access and manage your business in the Ontario Business Registry (OBR).
If your company has an accountant, provide the accountant with your company key. Go to the set up page of the Ontario Business Registry to access the company key portal. Your company key can be emailed immediately or sent by mail to your principal place of business.
You may search for your business to get your Company Key. You can search by using one of the following: Registered Name; Ontario Business Corporation (OCN); Business Identification Number (BIN).
Log in to this link to get you Company Key: https://www.appmybizaccount.gov.on.ca/onbis/companykey/
The Province of Ontario has implemented a company key as a new requirement for both new and existing businesses in the region. New businesses will automatically receive a company key upon registration or incorporation. Established businesses can request a company key at any time for future transactions with the Province of Ontario.
Step 2: Log in or Create a new My Ontario Account
My Ontario Account is an authentication tool that provides you with more secure access to government services. Once logged in, you will
- have secure access to various government applications including ServiceOntario
- be able to use the OBR which is one of ServiceOntario’s online applications
- be able to set up your ServiceOntario Account
- use your company key to link your business to your OBR profile
- be given the authority to manage and make changes to your business
Step 3: Create your Service Ontario Account
Once your My Ontario Account has been established, your next step is to create a service Ontario account that houses the Ontario Business Registry. Once that connection is online, you will be able to access the OBR.
Step 4: Link your business using your company key from Step 1
After creating your Service Ontario Account, you will need to:
- Search for your Business Entity
- Enter the company key when prompted
Once completed, your business will be accessible via your Service Ontario Account. This gives you access to manage and file transactions for your business online.
Step 5: Filing the Ontario Information Return
Once steps 1-4 have been completed, log into your Service Ontario account and scroll to corporate services. In this section, you will see an annual filing button to click on. Click on it and you will be taken to the annual filing page with these steps.
Step 1: Select the annual return year
Step 2: Confirm or update your registered or head office address
Step 3: Enter, confirm or change director(s) information
Step 4: Enter, confirm or change officer(s) information
Step 5: Certify
Step 6: Review
Step 7: File
Filing Options:
- My Ontario Account
- The company’s lawyer
- In Paper
Best of luck, and keep those returns up to date!