Change a business name (operating name) on behalf of a business or non-profit
A business or non-profit can change its business name (operating name) by filing a Name Change Form with Registry of Joint Stock Companies. A business name, also called an operating name, is an additional name that your business or non-profit can operate under. The business name is different than the legal name.
Use the Name Change Form to change the name of your business name (operating name). Your new name needs to follow the rules for business names.
In addition to the legal name of your business or non-profit, you can also operate under a registered business name. A business name is also called an operating name or ‘doing business as’ name. For example, the legal name of your business is 1234567 Nova Scotia Limited and you’ve also registered ABC Catering as your business name (operating name).
When your name changes
Your business name (operating name) changes when Registry of Joint Stock Companies registers it.
Public record
Information you file with Registry of Joint Stock Companies is available to the public.
Who can use this form
Businesses and non-profits that have a registered business name (operating name) need to use this form to change their business name.
What you need to do
- Reserve a new business name (operating name) for your business or non-profit (Registry of Joint Stock Companies needs to approve name).
- Complete the Name Change Form online.
- Check the form for details on all required supporting documents.
- Include payment with your form.
- Submit your completed form, supporting documents and payment.
- Registry of Joint Stock Companies issues a Certificate of Name Change.
How long it takes
It should take 1 to 2 weeks to get your Certificate of Name Change. It can take longer if more information is needed or if your form hasn’t been filled in correctly.
Cost
| Activity | Fee |
|---|---|
| Certificate of Name Change | $37.40 |
Payment options
Credit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover), debit card, cheque, money order, cash. Make your cheque or money order payable to the Minister of Finance. Payment options may vary depending on how you submit the form.
When you pay online you need to pay the fee by credit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, Visa Debit, Debit Mastercard).
Before you start
Make sure you have:
- approved business name (operating name) for your business or non-profit from Registry of Joint Stock Companies
- old business name and Registry ID
- effective date of the name change
- officer or director of the business or non-profit available to sign the form
Online
When you file online you need to create an account or sign in. You need to be an authorized filer for the business or non-profit. You also need to upload any supporting documents in PDF format, including required signatures.
You can use the Change of Business Name Form (PDF 529 kB) if you’re unable to file online. Send your completed form by mail. Or visit Registry of Joint Stock Companies or Access Nova Scotia.