The Trade Register is a list of companies maintained by the PRH. For most sole proprietors, joining the register is voluntary. It is a public register, and anyone can obtain information about the entries made in the register.
Should I join?
No, if you are operating alone and do not need any special permits. You can operate as a "private entrepreneur" with just a business ID. If registration is not mandatory in your case, you can operate without registering.
Registration is only mandatory if:
- You hire external employees (i.e., people other than your family members) for your company.
- You operate in a licensed sector, meaning that your business activities require a license from the authorities (e.g., healthcare, construction, or restaurant services).
- You have permanent business premises (office or shop) outside your home.
Why would I join voluntarily?
Even though it is not mandatory, many join because of the name.
- Name protection: Only the name entered in the trade register (e.g., "Matin Maalaus") has exclusive rights. Without registration, your business name is officially just your own name ("Meikäläinen Matti").
- Price: Online registration costs €70 (one-time payment).
Truster handle trade register notifications. If you want to join, do it yourself on the YTJ.fi service. Remember to add the €70 receipt to your accounting!
Please note that if your company ceases operations and you close your business, you must separately remove your trade registration. An active trade registration name obliges you to file a business tax return, even if your business operations and other registrations have ended.