Table of contents
Introduction
Getting started
Regulations
Taxation
Financing
Other resources
Introduction
A consultant is a professional who provides specialized advice and knowledge to clients for a fee. Many consulting businesses focus on a specific industry or area of expertise such as education, accounting, law, management, human resources or marketing.
In many types of consulting there may be no specific qualification requirements. Make sure you are knowledgeable about the industry you will be working in. Some industries may require a degree or professional designation, such as accounting or legal consulting. For others, a long and successful career running a business may be your main credential.
As a consultant, your clients will rely on your experience and recommendations. You may also be asked to provide services related to your area of expertise such as developing and delivering training sessions or managing projects. Be clear about what services you will offer.
Note: If you are consulting exclusively for one organization or are unsure about your employment status, contact the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) for a ruling on whether you are legally considered an employee or a self-employed individual. The ruling may have tax implications for you and your business. The rules under Ontario’s Employment Standards Act would also apply.
Contact CRA:
1-800-959-5525
Employee or Self-employed?
Contact the Ontario Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development's Employment Standards Information Centre
1-800-531-5551
Employee status
Getting started
When you start a business there are several things to consider before you can sell your product or service. Most businesses in Ontario need to complete a minimum of three basic steps:
- Find out what licences and regulations apply to your type of business
- Choose a business structure and register or incorporate your business
- Determine if you will need to collect and remit HST
Our Starting a business guide will give you more information on these steps and other basic requirements for starting a business in Ontario.
Read online:
Starting a business
Regulations
Your business may need licences and permits from the federal, provincial and municipal levels of government.
In addition to the information you will find in this guide, you can use BizPaL to find licences and regulations that may affect your business.
Use online:
Permits and licences search
Taxation
Depending on your location and the type of products or services being offered, federal, provincial and/or municipal business taxes may apply.
Read online:
Taxation guide
If you sell goods and services in Ontario, you may need a business number to collect and remit the Harmonized Sales Tax (HST). Most businesses that make less than $30,000 in any 12-month period are not required to charge HST; however, you can register voluntarily and claim input tax credits. Speak with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) for more information.
Contact CRA:
1-800-959-5525
Canada Revenue Agency
Financing
Grants, contributions, subsidies and loan guarantees are available from various government sources. Use Innovation Canada’s online search tool to look for programs and services that may apply to your business.
Search online:
Business Benefits Finder
Other resources
Industry-specific information