How to Set Up an LLC in Alaska

We’ve put together a free step-by-step guide on how to set up an LLC in Alaska. We want you to have a clear idea of how to set up and manage an LLC for your state. We’ve tried to make sure you have the information you need right at your fingertips. Each step has instructions and links to the sites for you to fill out the forms in the correct order. So, let’s set up your Alaska LLC right now! 

A few points to remember before setting up your LLC in Alaska

When you set up an LLC in Alaska you’ll need a few things before you get started.  This section will help you get your checklist in order.

A Unique Business Name 

Every business in the state must be unique. You’ll need to search for an Alaska LLC name. Go to the Alaska Division of Corporations: Search Corporations Database to make sure yours is not taken. 

An LLC Designator 

Once you’ve chosen a unique business name you’ll need to decide on your LLC designator.  When you set up your LLC in Alaska.  You can chose one of the ones below.

• LLC (most common) 
• L.L.C. 
• Limited Liability Company 
• Ltd. Liability Co. 
• Ltd. Liability Company 
• Limited Liability Co. 

A Registered Agent 

In most states, a registered agent is a person or a company that accepts “Service of Process” for your Alaska LLC. A registered agent will receive any subpoenas, notices, and other legal, and tax documents sent to your business by the State of Alaska Department of Revenue. 

If you’re opening a business in Alaska but you aren’t a resident, you’ll need to get a registered agent in that state.  The requirements for a registered agent are as follows: 

An Individual: 

• Must be 18 and be a resident of the state 
• Must be authorized to do business in the state. 
• Must have a physical street address located in Alaska

A Company 

• Must be authorized to do business in the state 

If you meet the above criteria, you can be your own registered agent. Or you can set up a friend or family member to be your registered agent. 

You can also hire a commercial Registered Agent. A company that provides their name and address to receive legal documents from the state. 

Step 1: Register Your Business Name 

To Set up an LLC in Alaska you need to register your business name.  This way during the process no one can steal the name of your company. 

You’ll need to reserve your name at the Alaska Business Name Reservation or by mail. This is optional and your reservation is only for up to 120 days. The fee for reserving your business name is $25 both online and by mail. 

Step 2: File Your Articles of Organization in Alaska 

Setting up an LLC in Alaska is easy, especially for single-member LLCs. Just go directly to the Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development.  

 You can do the name reservation and the Articles of Organization at the same time.  Easy peasy. 

 If you don’t want to file online, you can download and fill out the Articles of Organization here.  

Processing time for hardcopy (paper) filings: 

•  October-February: Expect delays greater than 15 business days. 
• March-September: Standard processing time of 10-15 business days. 

Fees: In Alaska, the cost of setting up your LLC and filing the Articles of Organization is $250.00. You will pay the same whether you file by mail or online. 

Step 3: Complete Your Alabama LLC Operating Agreement 

An operating agreement is a key document used by LLCs, and partnerships. It outlines the business’ financial and functional decisions including rules, regulations, and provisions. This describes how your LLC will operate internally. For more information on operating agreements, you can check out the Small Business Administration’s article on basic operating agreements. 

Step 4: Get Your Federal Tax ID Number (EIN) 

Once your Alabama LLC has been approved it’s time to get your Federal Tax ID Number from the IRS.   

Your EIN is the social security number of your business.  Keep it well protected.  You’ll use this number to open bank accounts, file tax documents, apply for loans and many other uses.  It also protects your social security number when doing business with other businesses like merchant accounts, 1099s received etc. 

To apply for your EIN you can go to IRS EIN/Tax ID Application.  Make sure you pick the correct Business Entity Type.   

Step 5: Apply for Alaska LLC Business License 

In Alaska, it is mandatory to apply for a business license for your LLC. This is renewable so you have to pay attention otherwise you will have to pay for the lapsed year. If expired for more than 2 years, you will have to purchase a new business license.  

To apply (renew) for Alaska Business License online, go to Alaska DCCED: Business Licensing and follow the instructions. The business license fee is $50 and so is the renewal fee every year.  

To apply by mail click here. 

Taxes, Permits, and Licensing in Alaska

All LLCs in Alaska must file a Biennial Report. Every two years or you forfeited the right to do business in Alaska.  

You can file your Initial Report online at Alaska Division of Corporations: Initial Report Online Filing within six months of filing your LLC paperwork. And your Biennial Report online at Alaska Division of Corporations: Biennial Report Online Filing.  

Fees: The biennial report fee is $100. Failure to file will result in a penalty of $37 or a shutdown of your LLC business. 

To do business in Alaska you will need to file tax returns, and hold permits and licenses in your county or city.  

Your Alaska LLC must apply for necessary business licenses and or permits.  This depends a lot on the type of business and the location of your business.  

Aside from business licenses and permits, all LLCs must also pay appropriate taxes and meet obligations with the Alaska Department of Revenue. 

Putting it All Together

Now that you can set up an LLC in Alaska online it shouldn’t take more than an hour or two to get up and running.  The Alaska Secretary of State’s website is very easy to navigate and following the six steps above will help you get your talents and ideas to market faster.