Ontario corporate documents
Profile Report or Certificate of Status?
Both come from the Ontario Business Registry, but they answer different questions. In short: College renewals almost always need the Profile Report. Banks and landlords usually want the Certificate of Status.
Side by side
| Corporation Profile Report | Certificate of Status | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | The corporation's full public record | The Ministry's certification of the corporation's current status |
| What it shows | Registered office, directors and officers, business names, filing history | Whether the corporation is active or inactive |
| Length | Several pages | One page |
| Usually asked for by | Professional Colleges, accountants, lawyers, due diligence | Banks, lenders, landlords, other provinces |
| College renewals | Almost always this one | Usually not accepted |
| Price here | $29 flat | $50 flat |
For a College renewal
Almost every Ontario College that regulates professional corporations asks for the Corporation Profile Report when you renew, often dated within 30 days. The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO) states that the one-page Certificate of Status is not accepted. When in doubt, check your renewal form or portal: it usually names the document. See what your College asks for.
For a bank, lender or landlord
They usually just need proof the corporation exists and is active, which is what the Certificate of Status is for. If they ask about directors or officers, the Profile Report is the one.
Questions
Can I use a Certificate of Status for my College renewal?
Usually not. Most Colleges ask for the Corporation Profile Report, and some, like RCDSO, state the Certificate of Status is not accepted.
Which is cheaper?
Here, the Profile Report is $29 and the Certificate of Status is $50, both flat prices, nothing added at checkout.
Are both official?
Yes. Both are issued by the Ontario Business Registry, and we send the PDF exactly as the registry issues it.
More guides: Certificate of Status · Corporation Profile Report · Do I need a Company Key?