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Start here: I have (or am considering) a corporation
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Guidance, not advice. We explain the rules, we don't assess your situation. Always seek financial or tax advice from your accountant, or contact CRA. Read our editorial scope →
- 1
Decide whether incorporating actually pays
Incorporation helps mainly when you can leave profit in the company. If you spend everything you earn, the compliance cost often outweighs the benefit. Run the decision first.
Should I incorporate? guide → - 2
Understand the small business deduction
A CCPC gets a reduced rate on its first $500,000 of active business income -- the core reason to incorporate. Know what counts as active business income.
Incorporation decision tool → - 3
Mind the personal services business trap
If you would be an employee of your client but for the corporation, you may be a PSB -- denied the small business deduction and most expenses, and taxed punitively. The biggest risk for solo contractors.
Personal services business guide → - 4
Pay family members carefully (TOSI)
Sprinkling dividends to a spouse or adult children can trigger tax on split income at the top rate unless an exclusion applies. Document who actually works in the business.
TOSI rules guide → - 5
Plan the holding company and exit
A holdco can defer tax and protect retained earnings; the lifetime capital gains exemption can shelter a future share sale. Plan the structure early.
Holding company guide →
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