Register a business name (operating name) on behalf of a society
Societies need to register their business name (operating name) with Registry of Joint Stock Companies if it’s different than their legal name. A business name, also called an operating name, is an additional name that your society can operate under.
Register your business name (operating name).
In addition to the legal name of your society, 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 society is ABC Helping Society of Nova Scotia and you’ve also registered ABC Helpers as your business name (operating name).
Societies need to register their business name (operating name) with Registry of Joint Stock Companies if it’s different than their legal name.
If Registry of Joint Stock Companies approves and registers the business name, you need to pay annual fees to renew the society, as well as pay annual fees to renew the business name (operating name).
Once you register a business name (operating name), you can carry on activities using the society name or the business name. Registering a business name doesn’t create a separate legal entity or a separate board of directors. All the funds that you raise when using the business name need to go towards promoting the society’s objectives.
Public record
Information you file with Registry of Joint Stock Companies is available to the public.
Eligibility
Societies need to register their business name (operating name) to operate under a name that’s different than their legal name.
An officer or director of the society needs to complete the form.
How to register
- Reserve a business name (operating name) for your society (Registry of Joint Stock Companies needs to approve name).
- Complete the Business Name Registration Form online.
- Check the registration form for details on all required supporting documents.
- Include payment with your registration.
- Submit your completed registration, supporting documents and payment.
- If you meet all the requirements, Registry of Joint Stock Companies issues a Certificate of Registration and Business Number.
How long it takes
It should take 1 to 2 weeks to get the Certificate of Registration and Business Number. It can take longer if more information is needed or if your registration hasn’t been filled in correctly.
Cost
| Activity | Fee |
|---|---|
| Registration | $68.55 |
| Renewal | $68.55 |
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 register.
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 society from Registry of Joint Stock Companies
- full legal name of the society
- civic address and mailing address of the society
- name of recognized agent
- civic address and mailing address of recognized agent
- officer or director of the society available to sign the form
Register online
When you register online you need to create an account or sign in. You also need to upload any supporting documents in PDF format, including required signatures.
You can use the Statement to be Used for the Registration of a Business Name for a Society Form (PDF 427 kB) if you’re unable to register online. Send your completed registration and payment by mail. Or drop them off at Registry of Joint Stock Companies or Access Nova Scotia.
Renewal
You need to renew your registration every year. You should get your renewal notice by mail or email before the renewal date. It’s your responsibility to renew on time.