Actually there are two programs. The BN (business number) is a federal program. I have a number with them which allows me to import the felt products that I sell and to collect and remit the HST.

The BIN is an Ontario provincial number for a business and is only for use when communicating with the provincial government about stuff.

Now whether you get a BN from the federal government when you register you business not sure but I would assume. So it is a BN you need that could be used on taxes not a BIN.