If you've started researching how to incorporate in Ontario, you've almost certainly encountered the term “NUANS report.” It sounds technical, but the concept is simple. Here's what you need to know.
What Is NUANS?
NUANS stands for Newly Upgraded Automated Name Search. It's a database maintained by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) that contains:
- All federal corporation names (Corporations Canada)
- All provincial corporation names across Canada
- Registered business names (in most provinces)
- Existing trademarks registered in Canada
A NUANS report searches this database against your proposed corporate name and returns a list of similar existing names and trademarks. The purpose is to prevent two businesses from having confusingly similar names.
Do You Need a NUANS Report?
You NEED a NUANS if:
- • You want a named corporation (e.g., “Acme Consulting Inc.”)
- • You're incorporating federally under the CBCA
- • You're incorporating provincially in Ontario with a chosen name
You do NOT need a NUANS if:
- • You're using a numbered corporation (e.g., “1234567 Ontario Inc.”)
- • The government assigns the number — no name conflict possible
How Much Does a NUANS Report Cost?
A NUANS report costs approximately $13.80 CAD for a standard 5-business-day validity window. Reports ordered through authorized NUANS searchers (which we are) are processed immediately.
The report is valid for 90 days. Your Articles of Incorporation must be filed within that 90-day window, or you'll need a fresh report.
Named vs Numbered Corporation — Which Should You Choose?
| Named Corporation | Numbered Corporation | |
|---|---|---|
| Example | Acme Consulting Inc. | 1234567 Ontario Inc. |
| NUANS Required | Yes (~$14) | No |
| Time to Incorporate | 5–15 business days | 5–10 business days |
| Brand Recognition | Yes | No (use a trade name) |
| Cost | Slightly higher | Slightly lower |
| Change Name Later | Yes (requires new NUANS) | Yes (can add a name) |
Practical tip: Many business owners incorporate as a numbered company first (faster and cheaper), then operate under a registered business trade name. For example, “1234567 Ontario Inc. carrying on business as Acme Consulting.” You can always apply to amend your corporation name later.
Ready to Incorporate?
We handle the NUANS search and entire incorporation process for $299 + government fees. Named or numbered, federal or provincial.
View Incorporation Service