Corporate Searches Explained | Ontario & Federal Corporate Profile Reports
- Natalie Paquette
- Dec 12, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 14
If you’re researching a company or need to confirm that a business is properly registered, you’ve probably come across the term ‘corporate search’. In Ontario, an ‘Ontario corporate search’ (also known as a ‘corporate profile report’) is one of the most useful tools for checking a corporation’s official details. But what exactly does it show—and when might you need one? Let’s break it down.
What is a Corporate Search?
A corporate search is an official government record that provides the public details of a registered Ontario corporation or federal corporation. Think of it as a background check for a company—it confirms that the business exists, is active, and lists who’s behind it.
Depending on where the business is registered, you can order either:
An Ontario corporate search (for businesses registered in Ontario), or
A federal corporate search (for businesses registered under the Canada Business Corporations Act).
A provincial or territorial corporate search for any other part of Canada
Any of these searches helps you verify legitimacy of a corporation before you make important business decisions.
What Information Does a Corporate Search Include?
A typical corporate profile report provides a snapshot of key details that are part of the public record, including:
Legal name of the corporation (or numbered company)
Corporation number and registration jurisdiction (Ontario, federal or other province/territory)
Current status — active, dissolved, or inactive
Date of incorporation or registration
Registered office or head office address
Names and addresses of directors and officers
Registered agent or contact information (if listed)
Filing history, such as annual returns or name changes
This information helps you confirm that the company is properly maintained and still in good standing.
When You Might Need a Corporate Search
A corporate search in Ontario can be helpful in many situations. Some of the most common reasons include:
1. Before signing a contract or partnership
Verify that the company is real, active, and that the person signing has authority to act for the corporation.
2. When buying or investing in a business
A corporate search helps confirm ownership details before you move forward with an investment or purchase.
3. For legal, accounting, or compliance purposes
Professionals often order corporate searches to confirm corporate standing or ownership before filing paperwork or closing a deal.
4. To locate updated contact information
If a company’s website doesn’t list who’s in charge, a corporate profile report can help you find the official directors or officers on file.
5. When reviewing your own company’s details
It’s smart to occasionally run a search on your own corporation to make sure your information is current with the government registry.
Related Searches You Might Need
In addition to a corporate search, you might also consider:
A profile report for a small business registration, if you want to look up a registered sole proprietorship, partnership, or trade name.
A Certificate of Status, which confirms that a corporation is active and up to date with government filings.
A copy of Articles of Incorporation, to get a duplicate of what was originally registered when a corporation was set up.
These documents can complement a corporate search and provide a full picture of a business’s legal standing.
Why Corporate Searches Matter
Having accurate corporate information helps you make confident decisions—whether you’re partnering with another company, applying for financing, or verifying your own registration details. It’s a quick, affordable way to ensure transparency and reduce risk in your business dealings.
How Launch A Business Can Help
At Launch A Business, we make it easy to order an Ontario or federal corporate search. We’ll help you access the official corporate profile report directly from government records—no need to navigate complicated systems yourself.
Whether you’re checking a potential partner, confirming your company’s standing, or just curious about what’s on file, we can get you the accurate, up-to-date information you need.
Ready to order a corporate search?
Contact Launch A Business today to request an Ontario corporate search or federal corporate search—and move forward with confidence knowing your information is verified and complete.
