FastStart Your Corporation is a practical, easy-to-follow guide for Canadian small business owners, freelancers, and independent contractors who want to incorporate with confidence.
This resource simplifies the decisions you have to make during the incorporation process and gives you the knowledge to avoid common mistakes, make informed decisions, and establish a strong foundation right from the start.
Instead of trying to figure it all out on your own, you’ll learn exactly what you need, so you can get started right away.
Who Should Read FastStart Your Corporation
This book is for you if:
You’re self-employed, run a sole proprietorship, or have a registered business—and your business is growing.
You’re considering incorporating but don’t know where to start (and don’t want to make your life more complicated).
You’ve read about sole proprietorships vs. corporations but feel overwhelmed by conflicting or confusing information.
You’re earning more than you need personally and want to know if a corporation could help you reduce your taxes.
You’re building a product or service and want to protect your personal assets from legal risk.
You’ve been told you need a corporation to work as an independent contractor—or want to appear more professional.
You’re applying for grants or tax credits that require a corporation to be eligible.
FastStart Your Corporation is designed for Canadian:
small business owners, freelancers, independent contractors, consultants, startups, accountants, legal professionals, and anyone exploring incorporation for the first time.
Decide if incorporation is right for you
Understand the key differences between corporations and sole proprietorships—so you can make an informed choice for your business.
Avoid costly classification issues
Learn how to ensure you’re not seen as an employee or Personal Services Business (PSB), which can lead to penalties from the CRA.
Ask the right questions even if you're outsourcing
Know what to expect and what to ask during the incorporation process, so you stay in control of the decisions.
Pay yourself the right way
Compare salary vs. dividends and understand how to structure compensation and hire employees.
Understand GST/HST registration
Know when and why to register, even if you don’t have sales yet and how to navigate the process.
Get a handle on corporate taxes
Learn the basics of small business corporate tax in Canada, so you can take advantage of available benefits.
Set up your accounting properly
Lay a strong financial foundation with a system that supports your business from day one.
Choose the right accountant
Know what to look for so you can get the guidance your business actually needs.
Navigate Quebec-specific rules
Get clear guidance on incorporating in Quebec, with insights into its unique requirements.
And much more
“I can find this information online for free.”
While it's true that some information is available online, it’s often scattered and inconsistent. This book compiles everything you need in one place, ensuring accuracy and saving you countless hours of research.
“I don’t have time to read a book right now.”
This guide is designed for busy entrepreneurs. It’s concise, easy to navigate, and lets you quickly find the information you need without wasting time.
“I’m not sure if this applies to my specific situation.”
Whether you’re a small business owner, freelancer, or startup founder, the book covers scenarios tailored to different needs, including a special section for Quebec-based businesses.
“I’ll just hire an accountant to take care of everything.”
While seeking help is a good idea and in fact recommended, it's essential to understand the process so that you can spot potential mistakes, ask the right questions, and make more confident, informed choices. Relying entirely on someone else can lead to miscommunication or oversights that may have long-term consequences for your business.
“I don’t think I need to incorporate.”
Incorporation isn’t right for everyone, but understanding the benefits—like tax advantages and personal liability protection—can help you decide. This book lays out the pros and cons so you can make an informed choice.
““I’m not ready to incorporate yet.”
Even if you’re not ready to incorporate now, understanding the process and knowing when the timing is right can save you headaches later. This guide will help you prepare for the future.
“I’ve already started the process of incorporating.”
If you’ve started the process but feel unsure about certain steps, this book can help clarify the details, answer questions, and ensure you’re on the right track.
Hi, I’m Ronika Khanna, a CPA, CA, and CFA with over 15 years of experience helping Canadian small business owners, solopreneurs, and freelancers simplify accounting, taxes, and finance. Through my company, Montreal Financial, I’ve helped numerous business owners navigate their finances and feel more confident.
I’m passionate about breaking down complex financial topics and making them accessible for everyone—even if numbers aren’t your thing. My approach is practical and action-oriented, designed to empower you with the tools and knowledge you need to make informed decisions and save time and money.
Whether it’s through my books, courses, or consultations, my goal is to help you stress less about finances and focus more on growing your business.