NEQ (Quebec Enterprise Number)

What is the NEQ?

The NEQ (Numéro d'entreprise du Québec) is a 10-digit identification number assigned to businesses registered in Quebec. Think of it as Quebec's standard business ID, similar in purpose to a federal business number but specific to the provincial registry.

English speakers see NEQ on invoices, government forms, and supplier accounts. French paperwork uses the same acronym. If a client, bank, or Revenu Québec asks for your "numéro d'entreprise," they usually mean the NEQ.

Who gets an NEQ?

Most businesses register with the REQ (Registraire des entreprises du Québec) and receive an NEQ as part of that process. That includes corporations, partnerships, and most registered trade names.

Main exception: if you operate as a sole proprietorship under your personal legal name only (no trade name, no "dba"), REQ registration may not be required and you may not have an NEQ. Many contractors eventually register a trade name or incorporate, which triggers NEQ assignment.

When in doubt, check Quebec's business registration rules or ask your accountant before your first commercial invoice.

NEQ vs other numbers Quebec contractors juggle

These numbers serve different purposes. A valid NEQ does not replace an RBQ licence for construction work. An RBQ licence does not replace GST/QST registration for taxable sales.

Where contractors use the NEQ

On invoices and quotes. Clients, commercial GCs, and property managers often expect your NEQ alongside your business name and address. It signals a registered Quebec business.

With Revenu Québec. QST registration and filings tie back to your business identity in Quebec's systems.

Opening accounts. Banks, suppliers, and insurance brokers frequently ask for the NEQ when you set up commercial credit or vendor accounts.

Subcontractor and GC paperwork. Larger projects may require NEQ, RBQ, and insurance certificates before you mobilize.

Government and municipal bids. Public tender forms almost always ask for NEQ and corporate registration details.

How to find or verify an NEQ

If you registered through the REQ, your NEQ appears on:

• Your registration confirmation
• Annual updating declarations
• The public Quebec enterprise registry search

You can look up another company's NEQ and legal name before hiring a sub or signing with a new GC. Mismatch between the name on the quote and the registry is a red flag.

Registering a new business

New contractors typically:

1. Choose a legal structure (sole proprietorship, corporation, partnership)
2. Register with the REQ (unless the sole-proprietor-under-personal-name exception applies)
3. Receive an NEQ
4. Register for GST/QST when revenue thresholds require it
5. Apply for an RBQ licence if performing construction work for others

Quebec's Start a Business service can bundle some steps. RBQ licensing still follows its own qualification path.

Common mistakes

Using a personal name on invoices when the business is registered under a trade name. Match the legal name on the REQ.

Omitting the NEQ on commercial invoices. Not always illegal, but it slows payment and looks amateur on B2B work.

Confusing NEQ with RBQ. Clients may ask for both. Keep them in your invoice template.

Letting REQ declarations lapse. Failing to file annual updates can affect good standing and create friction with banks and clients.

Disclaimer

This glossary entry is general information only, not legal or tax advice. Registration requirements depend on your business structure and activities. Consult the Registraire des entreprises du Québec or a qualified advisor for your situation.