Incorporating a business in Alberta is a smart move for entrepreneurs who want to limit personal liability, improve business credibility, and access tax advantages. Whether you’re starting a local service business in Calgary or launching a tech startup in Edmonton, registering a corporation in Alberta gives your business a strong legal foundation.
This article outlines the step-by-step process for Corporation Registration Alberta, including requirements, fees, and ongoing responsibilities.
Why Incorporate in Alberta?
Registering your business as a corporation in Alberta offers several advantages:
- Limited Liability: Protects your personal assets from business debts or legal action
- Separate Legal Entity: The corporation can enter contracts, own property, and be sued in its own name
- Tax Planning Opportunities: Access to the small business tax rate and income splitting (where permitted)
- Increased Credibility: Helps build trust with clients, suppliers, and investors
Corporations in Alberta are governed by the Business Corporations Act (Alberta) and administered by Service Alberta.
Step-by-Step: How to Register a Corporation in Alberta
Step 1: Choose a Corporate Name or Numbered Company
You can register a:
- Named Corporation (e.g., Prairie Tech Solutions Inc.)
- Numbered Corporation (e.g., 1234567 Alberta Ltd.)
A named corporation must be unique and include a legal element like “Ltd.”, “Inc.” or “Corp.” You’ll need a NUANS report to confirm the name’s availability.
Step 2: Obtain a NUANS Report (for Named Corporations)
A NUANS (Newly Upgraded Automated Name Search) report checks for similar corporate names across Canada. The report must be dated within 90 days of registration and can be obtained online from authorized providers.
If you’re registering a numbered corporation, you can skip this step.
Step 3: Prepare Incorporation Documents
You’ll need to prepare the following:
- Articles of Incorporation
- Notice of Address (registered and records office in Alberta)
- Notice of Directors
- NUANS report (if applicable)
These documents outline the structure of your corporation, including its share structure and internal rules.
Step 4: File Incorporation Documents Through an Authorized Service Provider
Unlike some provinces with centralized online systems, Alberta requires you to file incorporation documents through a registry agent or authorized service provider. You can find a registry agent through:
Step 5: Obtain a Federal Business Number (BN)
Once incorporated, you must register for a Business Number (BN) from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). You’ll need this number for:
- Corporate income tax
- GST/HST
- Payroll deductions
- Import/export
You can register online through the CRA’s Business Registration Online portal or by calling CRA directly.
Step 6: Register for Municipal Licences and Permits
Depending on your location and industry, your business may need:
- A municipal business licence (e.g., from the City of Calgary or Edmonton)
- Sector-specific permits (e.g., health or construction)
- Provincial licences (e.g., regulated trades or professions)
Use BizPaL to find required permits based on your location and business type.
Post-Incorporation Requirements
Once your Alberta corporation is registered, you have several ongoing obligations:
- Annual Returns: Must be filed with the Alberta Corporate Registry every year
- Corporate Records: Maintain a minute book with meeting minutes, share records, and resolutions
- Address and Director Updates: File changes with the registry within 15 days
- Corporate Tax Filings: File federal corporate tax returns annually with CRA
Failure to meet these requirements could lead to penalties or administrative dissolution of your corporation.
Incorporation vs. Other Business Types
Incorporation may not be necessary for everyone. If you’re a freelancer or running a low-risk business, a sole proprietorship or partnership might be simpler and cheaper to manage. However, these structures do not provide liability protection and may limit your abil
Registering a corporation in Alberta is a crucial step for entrepreneurs looking to grow and protect their business. While the process involves a few more steps than some provinces, the benefits—legal protection, tax advantages, and credibility—often outweigh the effort.
For best results, consider consulting a lawyer or accountant to ensure your corporate structure, share classes, and tax setup are aligned with your business goals.