buksoExpenses before incorporation
Not tax advice. General bookkeeping information only, checked against the official sources linked below (Canada Revenue Agency, IRS, provincial governments and Justice Laws) on Oct 17, 2026. Rules change; check with your accountant before you file.
Canada
A corporation can only deduct costs it paid or owes after it exists. Costs you paid before incorporating are usually claimed on your own return if you were already running the business, or handled by your accountant when the business moves into the corporation (for example a section 85 transfer, or the corporation adopting and repaying business costs it took over). Having the corporation repay you for personal costs, such as old exam or training fees, can be a taxable benefit. Never claim the same cost twice.
Official source: canada.ca