What is the NEQ number in Quebec?

Mandatory in most cases, the NEQ allows businesses to register, communicate with tax authorities, and access various government programs.

Understanding its purpose and knowing how to obtain it will help you start or manage your business in Québec in full compliance with the law.

What is the NEQ?

The Quebec Enterprise Number (NEQ) is a unique identifier assigned by the Registraire des entreprises du Québec (REQ) to every organization registered in the province.

Composed of ten digits, it serves as the official business identification card with government departments, business partners, and the public.

This number is used to:

• Officially identify the business in public registries;

• Facilitate communication with Québec ministries and agencies (such as Revenu Québec or Emploi Québec);

• Ensure transparency in business relationships.

Every NEQ is public. It is therefore possible to search for basic information about any business (name, address, status, administrators) free of charge on the Québec government website.

Key point: The NEQ in Quebec is equivalent to the federal business number (BN) issued by the Government of Canada. A company may therefore have two separate numbers, depending on its provincial and federal obligations.

What is the NEQ used for?

The NEQ’s main function is to centralize most interactions between a business and public organizations.

Official business identification

The NEQ clearly identifies a business in all official records.
This number appears on legal documents, contracts, invoices, and government communications.

Simplifying administrative procedures

Thanks to the NEQ, various ministries can automatically share information, speeding up administrative processes.
For example, when a business registers, its data can be shared with Revenu Québec, Emploi Québec, or the CNESST, avoiding duplicate steps.

Transparency and trust

The NEQ makes certain company information publicly available, reinforcing the transparency and credibility of a business. Business partners can easily verify its existence and legal status.

Who needs to obtain an NEQ?

Most businesses operating in Québec must be registered and hold an NEQ. This includes:

• Incorporated companies (business corporations);

• Partnerships (SENC, SEC);

• Non-profit organizations (NPOs);

• Cooperatives;

• Self-employed workers operating under a business name other than their legal name.

Special cases

Certain individuals do not need to register if they operate a business under their full legal name, without adding any distinctive element.

For example, “Marie Tremblay” does not need an NEQ, but “Consultation Tremblay” does.

Even when it’s not mandatory, many self-employed workers choose to obtain an NEQ voluntarily. It simplifies dealings with financial institutions, corporate clients, and government programs.

How to obtain an NEQ

The NEQ is issued when a business is registered with the Registraire des entreprises du Québec (REQ).

1. Create or register your business

• Go to the official REQ portal;

• Select your business type: sole proprietorship, partnership, NPO, or corporation;

• Complete the registration form and pay the applicable fees (which vary depending on the legal structure).

Once the application is approved, the NEQ is automatically assigned. The average processing time is 24 to 48 business hours.

2. If your business is incorporated federally (Corporations Canada)

If your business is incorporated federally, you must still register your company in Québec to operate in the province.
This step allows you to obtain your NEQ and be legally recognized in Québec.

The registration can be completed online using the clicSÉQUR service, and an official receipt will be sent by email.

Where to find a company’s NEQ

The NEQ appears on several official documents issued by public bodies, including:

• Notices of assessment from Revenu Québec;

• Documents from the Registraire des entreprises (registration, annual updates);

• Official communications sent to the business (letters, emails).

It can also be found online by:

• Searching the Registraire des entreprises du Québec website;

• Consulting the public business registry, where every registered company is listed with its NEQ.

Before launching your operations, make sure you’ve completed all administrative steps: registration, obtaining your NEQ, tax registration (GST/QST), and opening your account with Revenu Québec.

Register your business with confidence

The Quebec Enterprise Number (NEQ) is the first step toward the legal recognition of your business in Québec.
It facilitates communication with authorities, ensures compliance, and enhances your credibility with clients and partners.

Whether you are a self-employed worker, a small business owner, or the manager of a non-profit organization, understanding and managing your NEQ is part of building a strong, compliant foundation for your enterprise.

Need guidance to register your business, manage your legal obligations, or plan your corporate structure? Mallette’s experts can support you at every stage of your entrepreneurial journey.