Do I need a business number to start?

No. You can invoice as a sole proprietor under your own name. You need a business number once you register for GST/HST.

Should I register for GST/HST right away?

It's your choice under $30,000. Registering lets you claim back GST/HST on costs, but you then charge it and file returns. The help library walks through both.

Can I try it before I set up my own business?

Yes. On the first setup screen, choose the sample business to look around with made-up customers, invoices and expenses.

For new businesses

Just registered? Start right

The first year sets your habits. Start with a separate account, a photo of every receipt, and a number for what to keep aside, and your first tax season is a checklist instead of a scramble.

Start free See how tax time works

No credit card needed.

Sam's RenovationsHome

Home in the app, with the sample business. Numbers are made up.

Tax-ready all year, free

A guided setup for your business, tax numbers and payment details
A sample business to look around first
Invoices without tax until you register for GST/HST
A warning as your sales near $30,000
Snap receipts from day one, sorted by T2125 line
A running set-aside number for sales tax, income tax and CPP

What usually goes wrong

Not knowing when to register for GST/HST
You must register once sales pass $30,000 over four calendar quarters. CollabNorth counts for you and warns you as you get close.
Losing early receipts
Startup costs like a laptop or software are often claimable. Snap them now, even before your first invoice.
Spending money that belongs to CRA
No tax comes off your payments. Home shows how much to keep in a separate account.

Your first year with CRA

As a sole proprietor with a December 31 year end, you file your income tax return with a T2125 by June 15, but anything you owe is due April 30.

Registering for GST/HST is optional under $30,000. Registering early lets you claim back the tax on your costs, in exchange for filing returns.

Keep your records for six years. Clear, complete photos of receipts are fine, and the app keeps them with each expense.

Coming for tax season 2027

At tax time: the Tax Ready pass

We are building it now, at about $79 for sole proprietors and about $199 for corporations. It is not on sale yet. It will give you:

A GST/HST worksheet laid out on CRA's return lines
A T2125 package with your income and expenses by line
A receipt audit that points out what is missing before you claim

Worksheets and guides only. You file with CRA yourself.

Invoicing that does the tax for you

The CollabNorth invoice builder with Canadian tax lines calculated automatically — The invoice builder: header, items, tax and notes, review.

The customer-facing invoice page with Interac e-Transfer payment instructions — What your customer sees, with e-Transfer instructions.

Common questions

Do I need a business number to start?: No. You can invoice as a sole proprietor under your own name. You need a business number once you register for GST/HST.
Should I register for GST/HST right away?: It's your choice under $30,000. Registering lets you claim back GST/HST on costs, but you then charge it and file returns. The help library walks through both.
Can I try it before I set up my own business?: Yes. On the first setup screen, choose the sample business to look around with made-up customers, invoices and expenses.

Start your books today

Free for one owner, with no invoice limit and no card. Try the sample business first if you want to look around.

Start free Read the help library

General information to help you keep your own records. It is not accounting, legal or tax advice. Confirm details with the Canada Revenue Agency or your accountant.