To incorporate a business in New Brunswick, the mandatory provincial filing fee via Service New Brunswick (SNB) is currently $262 CAD. Including a required NUANS name search and basic legal fees for a corporate lawyer to set up your minute book, most entrepreneurs spend between $800 and $2,000 CAD in total.
Starting a new venture in the Maritimes is an exciting milestone. Whether you are opening a bustling retail shop in Moncton, launching an innovative tech startup in Fredericton, or expanding a service business in Saint John, forming a legal corporation is a critical step.
By choosing to incorporate a business in New Brunswick, you are creating a separate legal entity. This generally protects your personal assets from business liabilities and may offer significant tax advantages. However, navigating the Corporate Registry requires a clear understanding of the associated costs. 💰
Step-by-Step Process in New Brunswick
Many founders wonder exactly how to navigate the provincial incorporation process. The procedure is generally straightforward but requires precise attention to detail. Whether you live in Bathurst, Edmundston, or Dieppe, the process generally follows these steps.
Step 1: Reserving Your Corporate Name (NUANS)
Before you can submit any legal paperwork, you must ensure your desired company name is legally available. You are required to order a New Brunswick-biased NUANS (Newly Upgraded Automated Name Search) report.
This comprehensive report compares your chosen name against existing local and federal trademarks, as well as registered businesses. You can either hire a local law firm to pull this report or order it directly through an authorized search house.
Step 2: Preparing the Articles of Incorporation
Once your name is legally secured, you must draft your Articles of Incorporation (Form 1). This foundational document outlines the structure of your company, including share classes, the number of directors, and any restrictions on business activities. 📝
For many standard businesses, completing this form is a matter of following the guidelines provided by the province. However, complex share structures often require the expertise of an experienced corporate lawyer to ensure your future tax planning is optimized.
Step 3: Filing at Service New Brunswick (SNB)
With your NUANS report and Articles of Incorporation in hand, you must file these documents with the provincial Corporate Registry. Most applicants in this province choose to submit their application electronically through the SNB online portal.
Alternatively, you can visit a local SNB service centre to submit physical copies. You will be required to pay the standard government filing fee at this stage, often by credit card or certified cheque.
Step 4: Organizing Your Corporate Minute Book
Incorporation does not end with receiving your government certificate. New Brunswick corporate law requires you to maintain an updated minute book at your registered office. 💼
This professional binder holds your corporate bylaws, director registers, shareholder resolutions, and share certificates. While you can purchase a DIY minute book kit, many business owners rely on a New Brunswick law firm to ensure these vital records are legally compliant from day one.
How Much Does it Cost in New Brunswick?
When budgeting for your new corporate entity, it is helpful to break down the mandatory government expenses versus the highly recommended professional legal services.
| Expense Type | Estimated Cost (CAD) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| SNB Filing Fee | $262 | The mandatory government fee to file Articles of Incorporation in New Brunswick. |
| NUANS Report | $40 – $60 | Required name search to ensure your business name is unique and available. |
| Minute Book & Seal | $100 – $200 | Physical binder, customized share certificates, and corporate seal (if DIY). |
| Corporate Lawyer Fees | $800 – $2,500+ | Legal advice, drafting custom share structures, and organizing initial bylaws. |
- Basic DIY Incorporation: If you handle all paperwork yourself, expect to spend roughly $322 to $400 CAD.
- Professional Law Firm Package: Hiring a local lawyer generally costs between $1,200 and $2,500 CAD, which includes all government disbursements and comprehensive legal advice.
- Annual Returns: Remember to budget for your annual corporate return, which costs around $60 CAD each year to maintain your active status with the province.
How Long Does the Process Take?
Entrepreneurs often need to move quickly to open bank accounts, apply for commercial loans, and sign commercial leases. If you file your incorporation documents online through Service New Brunswick, the government processing time is generally very efficient.
Standard online applications are typically processed within 1 to 3 business days. However, if you choose to mail your documents or drop them off at an SNB centre, processing can take up to two weeks. Gathering your NUANS report and drafting custom bylaws with a lawyer usually adds an additional 3 to 7 days to your total timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I have to hire a lawyer to incorporate in New Brunswick?
No, you are not legally required to hire a lawyer. However, retaining a corporate law firm is highly recommended to ensure your share structure and bylaws are drafted correctly to protect your interests.
What is the difference between provincial and federal incorporation?
Provincial incorporation registers your company specifically in New Brunswick. Federal incorporation gives you heightened name protection across Canada but still requires you to register extra-provincially in New Brunswick to operate locally.
Can I incorporate a numbered company?
Yes. If you do not need a specific business name (for example, for a holding company), you can opt for a numbered company (e.g., 123456 NB Inc.). This allows you to skip the NUANS report fee and process the application faster.
Are there any ongoing yearly fees?
Yes. Every New Brunswick corporation must file an Annual Return with the Corporate Registry and pay a nominal filing fee (currently around $60 CAD) to remain in good standing.
What happens if I make a mistake on my application?
If there are errors in your Articles of Incorporation, SNB will return the documents for correction. Filing Articles of Amendment later to fix structural mistakes will require additional government fees and potentially higher legal costs.
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