Free Tool

Business Structure Comparison

A quick side-by-side of the three most common Ontario business structures.

Ontario

Sole Proprietorship

  • One owner
  • Simplest setup
  • Owner personally liable
  • Business income on personal tax return
  • Register business name if not using legal name
Registration guide
Ontario

General Partnership

  • Two or more owners
  • Partners personally liable, often jointly
  • Income allocated to partners
  • Partnership agreement strongly recommended
  • Register partnership name if used
Registration guide
Ontario

Ontario Corporation

  • Separate legal entity
  • Limited liability (with exceptions)
  • Separate corporate tax return (T2)
  • Directors, shareholders, minute book
  • Ongoing annual returns
Incorporation hub