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What is a Non-Profit Corporation?
A non-profit corporation is a legal entity that operates for any purpose other than making a profit—like social welfare, education, recreation, or civic improvement.
Profits (if any) must be used to support the organization’s mission, not to benefit members or directors.
Is a Non-Profit Right for You?
You want to make an impact. That starts with choosing the right structure.
If your goal is to create a community organization, club, or advocacy group, a non-profit might be the right fit. If your work falls under charitable purposes—like poverty relief, education, or religion—you may qualify for charity status.
The difference matters:
– A non-profit can’t issue donation receipts.
– A charity can—and it comes with CRA oversight.
We Register Non-Profits and Charities
Whether you’re starting a non-profit or aiming for full charitable status, we handle the full registration process.
- CRA charity registration
- Name search and NUANS report
- Articles of incorporation
- Government filings
- All CRA paperwork—done for you
You focus on your mission. We handle the paperwork.
Non-Profit vs. Charity: Know the Difference
Non-Profit Organization
- Can support any non-profit cause
- No CRA registration required
- Cannot issue tax receipts
- Limited access to grants/donations
- Basic reporting requirements
Registered Charity
- Must meet one of four charitable categories
- CRA registration required
- Can issue tax receipts
- Broad access to grants and donations
- Detailed reporting (T3010, annual reports)
Why Register Through MyBusiness.ca?
Fast turnaround
Most filings done within 1–5 business days
CRA-compliant
We ensure your paperwork meets all federal/provincial requirements
Charity registration experts
Get full support for CRA approval
Clear pricing
No hidden fees
Friendly support
Real people to answer your questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a non-profit and a registered charity?
A non-profit exists to serve a community goal—like social, recreational, or civic purposes—but it can’t earn profits for its members. A registered charity also operates without profit but must serve specific charitable purposes, such as reducing poverty, advancing education or religion, or benefiting the public in another legally recognized way. Only registered charities can issue tax receipts for donations and receive certain tax exemptions.
How long does it take to register a non-profit or charity?
If you’re incorporating federally, approval usually takes 1–5 business days. If you’re applying for charitable status with the CRA, expect it to take a few months, depending on how complete your application is and how complex your structure or goals are.
Can a non-profit make money?
Yes—but the revenue must go back into the organization to support its activities. You can’t distribute profits to directors, members, or staff beyond reasonable compensation for services.
What are the legal and reporting requirements?
All non-profits must follow certain rules. You’ll need to keep records, hold annual meetings, submit updates to the government, and file the required tax returns. Registered charities have additional rules, like spending minimums and annual filings with the CRA (T3010).
Can non-profits give tax receipts for donations?
No. Only organizations with official charitable status from the CRA can issue donation receipts for tax purposes. If your group is just a non-profit, you can still accept donations, but donors won’t be able to claim a deduction.
What’s involved in becoming a registered charity?
To register with the CRA, your organization must have a clear charitable purpose that fits within Canadian law. You’ll need to submit your governing documents, describe your planned activities, and prove that your work serves a public benefit. mybusiness.ca can handle this entire process for you—including all paperwork and CRA filings.
Can I start a non-profit on my own?
You can begin the process solo, but you’ll need at least three directors (in most cases) to officially incorporate or apply for charitable status.
Should I incorporate federally or provincially?
Federal incorporation allows your organization to operate across Canada using the same name. Provincial incorporation is usually faster and may be more suitable if you’re staying local. Each has different legal and reporting requirements.
What other business owners are saying
“MyBusiness.ca helped turn our idea for JeDonz Contract Services into reality without the hassle and expense with dealing with lawyers. The registration process was straightforward and made everything feel official right away.”
JeDonz Contract Services
“Starting our business was stress-free experience thanks to MyBusiness.ca. Their simple registration process helped us get fully incorporated in less than 2 hours.”
The Moverz Inc
“MyBusiness.ca made getting Finlance off the ground so easy—registering our business was quick and simple.”
Finlance
Ready to start your non-profit in Canada?
Questions?
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