A business number (BN) is the 9-digit number CRA uses for your business. Your GST/HST number is the BN with RT0001 on the end, like 123456789 RT0001.
Do you need one?
You need a business number when you need a CRA program account:
- GST/HST. You register once your taxable sales pass $30,000 in four quarters in a row, or earlier if you choose to. See Do I need to register for GST/HST?.
- Employees. A payroll account to send source deductions.
- Imports or exports of goods: an import-export account.
- A corporation. Every corporation gets one when it is incorporated.
A sole proprietor with no employees, under $30,000, doesn't need one. You still report your business income on form T2125 with your personal return, using your SIN.
Get one online (sole proprietors)
- Sign in to My Account at CRA (the one you use for your personal taxes).
- Choose to add a business account, then Business Registration Online.
- Confirm who you are (your SIN, date of birth and postal code; CRA may ask for an amount from your last tax return).
- Describe the business in plain words (what you sell and to whom) and pick the program accounts you need, usually GST/HST.
You get the number at the end, right away. Write down the GST/HST effective date you chose: your first return starts on that date.
Corporations get their BN when they incorporate. The GST/HST account is added the same way, through the company's My Business Account.
My Business Account
My Business Account is where you file and pay GST/HST, see what CRA thinks you owe, and read CRA's mail. The first time, CRA may mail a security code to the address it has for you, which can take about 10 business days. Ask for it as soon as you register, so it arrives before your first return is due.
In CollabNorth
Add your GST/HST number in Settings, then Tax registrations, with the effective date CRA gave you. It then shows on every invoice, which CRA requires once you're registered. See What your invoice must show for GST/HST.
This is general information to help you keep your own records. It is not tax or legal advice.
Based on: CRA: When you need a business number or program accounts and CRA: My Business Account
Last checked: 2026-10-25