Start-Up Checklist
This checklist is intended as a quick reference list for basic business start-ups only. Information is deemed to be as accurate as possible, and there is no particular order to follow. Users should refer to the “Chatham-Kent Business Start-Up Guide” for more details regarding particular processes, or book a confidential, one-on-one appointment with the Chatham-Kent Small Business Centre staff. A printable version, of the Start-Up Guide, is available to the right of the page.
Federal Requirements
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Register for GST number with CRA (voluntarily or at $30,000 gross sales) |
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Obtain Import/Export permits if transporting goods in and or out of Canada |
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Municipal Requirements
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Determine business location and check Municipal zoning regulations with Chatham-Kent Zoning department |
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Apply for building permit before construction or renovations on business begin |
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Check with Municipal Licensing department for additional licenses and permits required, schedule health and fire inspections |
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Provincial Requirements
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Register business name and obtain Master Business License |
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Apply for RST Vendor Permit (PST) from Ontario Ministry of Finance |
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Obtain special provincial-regulated licenses and permits required for type of business being conducted |
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Other Recommended Steps
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Contact applicable offices to arrange for utility hook-ups |
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Set up business bank account, payment systems (credit, debit machine) |
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Purchase business insurance from insurance company/broker |
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Set up record-keeping/filing system |
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Hire advisors: accountant, bookkeeper, lawyer |
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If you hire employees:
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Register with Worker’s Compensation within 10 days of the employee’s date of hire |
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Obtain information on Employment Standards, Occupational Health & Safety |
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Set up Payroll Deductions account with CRA (EI, CPP, Income Tax) |
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For additional assistance, visit our list of Start-Up Contacts page.
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