FAQ - Corporate Searches
1What is a NUANSĀ® Search System?
A NUANS name search is a computerized search system that compares a proposed corporate / business name or trade-mark with databases of existing corporate names and trademarks. This comparison determines the similarity that may exists between the proposed name or trademark and existing names in the database, and produces a listing of names that are found to be most similar.
2Why do I need a NUANS Search?
- Provincial or Federal Corporation
- Not-for-profit organization or a Charity
- Register a Trademark
In addition, NUANS search is a fairly comprehensive search to check availability of a business name. A NUANS name search is necessary to incorporate your business in Ontario or Canada. Requesting a NUANS search online takes only a few minutes. Your NUANS report is usually ready within 2-3 business hours. Your NUANS search report will show what specific corporate names that sound similar to your proposed name are already registered. It will also show you if you can use the proposed corporate name. If the name already exists, then you will have to do a NUANS name search again. That is why we recommend doing a preliminary business name search before an actual NUANS search. That gives you an opportunity to search for up to 3 business names at a much lower price. If you are registering a corporation and the proposed name does not exist, the NUANS search would actually reserve the name for 90 days.
3What is a Preliminary NUANS Search?
If you are considering several names for your business, you can perform a Preliminary Name Search before making a final decision. A Preliminary name search will allow you to check up to 3 names.
4What is the difference between Preliminary and NUANS searches?
Preliminary search is a low cost alternative that allows you to check up to 3 names for a small fee. However, this search is limited to exact match only and does not provide phonetically similar names, like a NUANS search does. Also, it does not reserve the name, it only checks the name.
NUANS search on the other hand, provides phonetically similar names and if no match found, actually reserves the name for 90 days. However, you can do only one name search per order.
5What to expect after search order is placed
- Preliminary Name Search is usually ready within 2 business hours.
- NUANS name search is usually ready within 3 business hours.
- Once ready, your search report will be uploaded to your account or delivered based on the preferences you select on the order form.
FAQ - Business Registration
1How can I place an order?
Our clients have the following choices: Order online or by mail.
2How long does it take to process an order?
Most searches are done within 1-2 days. Rush services are available under certain conditions. Business registration services require 3-5 business days.
3How would you deliver information to us?
You can choose from the following methods of delivery: Mail, E-mail, Courier.
4What method of payment do you accept?
We accept: Certified cheque, or online direct deposit to our account
5If this is my first order, do I need to complete any special forms?
If this is a onetime order, then no forms required. If you are looking to establish an account, please contact us or go to this form.