Incorporation vs. Sole Proprietorship
Business Structure15 min read

Incorporation vs. Sole Proprietorship

Key differences, tax implications, and benefits of each business structure.

Sole Proprietorship

Pros: Simplest and least expensive to set up. Detailed regulatory burden is low.

Cons: Unlimited personal liability. Business income is taxed at your personal marginal tax rate.

Tax Filing: T1 Personal Tax Return (Form T2125).

Corporation

Pros: Separate legal entity, limited liability protection, potential access to the Small Business Deduction (lower tax rate ~12.2% in Ontario for eligible income), income splitting opportunities.

Cons: More expensive to set up and maintain. Requires separate T2 Corporate Tax Return, minute books, and annual resolutions.

Official Resource: Sole proprietorships (CRA)

Official Resource: Incorporating a business