Updated February 2023
Ontario Corporations must file their Ontario provincial returns through the Ontario Business Registry.
We used to file the Ontario Corporation Informational Return as part of the federal T2 Corporate Tax Return. As of May 15, 2021, this is no longer an option.
How to File an Ontario Corporation Informational Return
Step 1 – Register for the new Ontario Business Registry
On the main page for the Ontario Business Registry, you will find instructions about one-third down the page. First, make sure that your company information is up to date. If you’ve had a change in directors or the corporation’s office has moved, it needs updating. Click the “Get a Company Key” link to see the information on file. Then type in your registered business name, Ontario Corporation Number (OCN), or your Ontario BIN (this is different from your CRA BN). Then, click on the business that you are trying to access.
Completing this first step will result in a “Company Key” being issued.
You may see that your incorporation date looks very funny. For example, November 11, 1111. This is because the Ontario Business Registry isn’t tied to the federal database at this time (as of the original publish date in 2021.)
If the information in the “Get a Company Key” section is incorrect, you need to call Service Ontario and update your information. Service Ontario’s phone number is 1-800-361-3223. You can update your information through ESC Corporate Services or E-Corp. Calling is far easier for people who haven’t used these services before than trying to navigate the websites. Charges from these service providers will apply for any forms you file through their services.
Once you have successfully requested a Company Key, the key will be sent to the official email address or snail-mail address on file. Be sure these addresses are up to date before registering for your Company Key.
For help with the website, call 1-800-361-3223 (Service Ontario), select option 2 and then speak to a representative. They can help you navigate the system.
Step 2 – Login to ONe-Key
You do not need an Ontario Company Key to get a ONe-Key ID. However, you will need it to make any filings or changes. You will also need it to link your company to the ONe-Key ID.
On the main page of the Ontario Business Registry, scroll down and click on the big blue button labelled “Login to ONe-Key.” It’s about halfway down the screen. This will take you to the login portal. Click on “Sign up now!” and follow the instructions. You will get a confirmation of your registration in your email. The next time you log in, there will be a few additional steps to confirm your registration. Then you can start using the services available. This is when you’ll link the companies using your Company Key.
Step 3 – Access Annual Returns
About three-quarters of the way down the main page of the Ontario Business Registry, you will find a section for Annual Returns. When you click the button “Access your corporation’s Ontario Business Registry profile,” you’ll need to log in with your ONe-Key. If you haven’t set that up, go back to Step 2 and complete it.
Click the option “Make Changes” and select “File Annual Return.” From here, you should be able to follow the prompts to complete the filing.
Note that in this menu, Ontario corporations will see many more options than an extra-provincial corporation registered in Ontario. Here you can do many more things to help you manage your business affairs with the government.
Best of luck, and keep those returns up to date!