In Alberta, the Newly Upgraded Automated Name Search (NUANS) report plays a critical role for businesses and non-profit organizations during the incorporation process.

It is a comprehensive name search report that compares a proposed corporation or non-profit name against a database of existing names across Alberta and federally.

The Role of NUANS Reports in Alberta

• Purpose: The NUANS report is essential for ensuring that the proposed name for a corporation or non-profit is unique and does not infringe on existing registered names, thereby avoiding legal complications and confusion.
• Requirement: It is generally required for the incorporation, amalgamation, name change, or revival of corporations or non-profits in Alberta, as well as for the registration of extra-provincial corporations.
• Exceptions: Certain situations do not necessitate a NUANS report, such as when opting for a “number name” for the corporation or reviving an Alberta corporation within three years of its dissolution.
• Validity and Reservation: A NUANS report reserves the proposed name for 90 days, providing a window during which the incorporation process should be completed to secure the name.

Obtaining a NUANS Report

NUANS and Business Name Reports are available for purchase through registry services in Alberta.

These reports are indispensable for conducting due diligence before finalizing a business or non-profit name.

When You Need a NUANS Report

• Incorporating new Alberta corporations, societies, and religious societies.
• Amending names of existing Alberta or extra-provincial corporations.
• Reviving an Alberta corporation after more than three years of dissolution.
• Registering or reviving a named extra-provincial corporation.
• Amalgamating corporations under a new name.

A NUANS report is not required for incorporating as a numbered Alberta corporation.

FAQs on NUANS in Alberta

What does a NUANS report include? A NUANS report includes a detailed comparison of the proposed business name against existing business names and trademarks, ensuring uniqueness.

How long is a NUANS report valid? The report is valid for 90 days from the date of issue, during which the name reservation is held.

Can I proceed without a NUANS report if I choose a numbered company? Yes, a NUANS report is not necessary for registering a numbered company in Alberta.

In Summary

• The NUANS report is a vital step in the business incorporation process in Alberta, ensuring that proposed names are unique and legally compliant.
• It is required for most types of corporation or non-profit registrations, with specific exceptions outlined by the Alberta government.
• The report provides a 90-day name reservation, crucial for securing the desired name during the incorporation process.

Sources and Further Reading

• Alberta One Stop Registry: For comprehensive details on obtaining a NUANS report and its importance in the incorporation process. NUANS Report, Business Name Search