Alaska LLC Name Search & Entity Lookup (Guide)

ALASKA LLC NAME SEARCH

Choosing the right name for your LLC in Alaska is essential to building your brand. Before moving forward, you need to ensure your name is available and compliant with state laws.

The Alaska LLC Name Search & Lookup process helps you avoid conflicts and secure your brand’s identity.

This simple, step-by-step guide walks you through checking name availability and reserving your LLC name.

Should You Conduct an Alaska Name Search or an LLC Lookup?

Conducting a business name search is an important first step when you start an LLC in Alaska.

Here are some reasons why you should do this.

  • Check Name Availability: Before you file your LLC formation documents, it’s crucial to confirm that your desired name is available. This helps you avoid potential legal issues with existing businesses.
  • Meet State Requirements: Alaska has specific naming requirements. Your LLC name must include “Limited Liability Company,” or the abbreviations “L.L.C.” or “LLC.” A name that doesn’t follow the guidelines may be rejected.
  • Distinguish Your Business: You want your business name to stand out. Conducting a name search helps ensure your LLC name is unique and won’t confuse customers with other businesses in the state.
  • Save Time and Money: Finding out if your name is available can save you from wasting time on an application that might not be approved. This can save you money on filing fees.
  • Simplify the Registration Process: By using the Alaska Division of Corporations’ online tool, you can check name availability and simplify your registration.

Alaska Corporations Database LLC Name Search (step-by-step)

Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure you can effectively check if your desired LLC name is available in Alaska.

Step 1: Visit the Alaska Corporations Database website

Start by navigating to the Alaska Division of Corporations website at commerce.alaska.gov. This site hosts the Corporations Database that you will use for your search.

Step 2: Click on “Search Corporations Database”

Alaska Corporations, Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing

After reaching the Alaska Corporations homepage, locate the option labeled “Search Corporations Database.” This option is crucial as it directs you to the specific area where you can conduct your LLC name search. Click on this link to proceed.

Step 3: Enter your desired LLC name in the search box

Alaska LLC Name Search

In the search box provided, type the name you would like to use for your LLC. The search options include searching by entity number and name.

If performing an Alaska LLC name search, only type your desired LLC name in the Entity Name search box. You can filter your search by “Starts With” or “Contains.”

Once you’ve entered your desired name, click the “Search” button.

Step 4: Review the search results for name availability

Alaska Search Corporations Database No Results

After clicking “Search,” take a moment to look through the results displayed. The database will show you all entities that match your search criteria. If get a “No Results” message, it’s a strong indicator that the name is available.

Alaska LLC Name Search Results

If your desired LLC name is listed, it means it’s already taken, and you have to consider a different name. You get crucial information like Entity Type, Entity Number, Entity Name, Name Type, and Status.

Clicking on the blue Entity Number takes you to a full entity detail page containing the following:

  • AK Formed Date
  • Duration/Expiration
  • Home State
  • Next Biennial Report Due
  • Entity Mailing Address
  • Entity Physical Address
  • Registered Agent Information
  • Officials
  • Filed Documents
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Crucial LLC Naming Guidelines and Requirements in Alaska

When choosing a name for your LLC in Alaska, it’s important to follow specific guidelines to ensure compliance with state laws.

Here are the guidelines and requirements you must follow:

1. Inclusion of Designator

Your LLC name must include the phrase “Limited Liability Company” or one of its acceptable abbreviations, such as “LLC” or “L.L.C.” This clearly identifies your business as an LLC and distinguishes it from other types of entities.

2. Distinctiveness

Your business name must be unique and distinguishable from other registered entities in Alaska.

To check availability, use the Alaska Corporations Database to ensure your name isn’t already in use or too similar to an existing name.

3. Avoid Certain Terms

Certain terms like “Incorporated” or “Corporation” should be avoided, as they suggest corporate status and are not appropriate for an LLC. Ensure your name reflects the correct business structure to avoid confusion.

4. No Misleading Words

Your LLC name cannot mislead the public into thinking your business is connected to a government agency or any other organization it is not affiliated with. This helps maintain transparency and trust with customers.

5. Restricted Words

Certain words like “Bank” or “Trust” are restricted and may require additional approval or documentation to use.

If you want to include such terms in your name, be prepared to meet state requirements for permission.

6. Legal Compliance

The name you choose must not imply illegal activities or purposes that are prohibited by Alaska state law. Ensure your name aligns with all legal standards to avoid future complications.

7. Character Rules

Alaska has specific rules regarding the characters used in LLC names. Ensure you follow these guidelines, using correct abbreviations and ensuring that all letters and symbols used are acceptable by state standards.

What Words are not allowed in my Alaska LLC name?

When choosing a name for your Alaska LLC, it’s important to avoid certain words that are not allowed.

Here are the main restrictions to keep in mind:

  • Incorporated (Inc.) or Corporation (Corp.) – These terms are reserved for corporations and cannot be used in an LLC name.
  • Bank – The word “Bank” is restricted and requires additional regulatory approval or licensing to use, particularly if your business is not a bank or financial institution.
  • Trust – If you wish to use “Trust” in your LLC name, you will need to meet specific legal requirements or obtain approval from the state.
  • Insurance – The term “Insurance” is only allowed if your business is properly licensed by the state to provide insurance services. Without this license, you cannot include the word in your name.
  • University, College, or Institute – These terms are typically reserved for accredited educational institutions and cannot be used in a business name unless you are a legitimate educational entity.
  • Government-related terms – Words like Federal, State, National, Treasury, Bureau, Agency, Commission, or Department are prohibited. These terms could mislead the public into thinking your business is affiliated with or authorized by a government entity.
  • Charity, Foundation, or Nonprofit – These words are restricted and may require additional paperwork or documentation if you are not actually a nonprofit or charitable organization.
  • Mortgage – “Mortgage” is typically restricted to businesses that are licensed to provide mortgage-related services and may require approval or licensing.
  • Cooperative – The term “Cooperative” is generally reserved for co-ops and cannot be used unless your business structure fits this category.
  • Public, Public Service, or Public Works – These terms imply a business offering government-related services or public utility functions, which are prohibited for LLCs.
  • Professional Terms – Terms like “Doctor,” “Lawyer,” “Attorney,” or “Engineer” cannot be used unless your LLC is specifically licensed in those professional fields (e.g., medical or legal services).
  • Illegal or Offensive Words – Any word that suggests illegal activities, offensive language, or violates public policy cannot be included in your LLC name.

How do I File an Alaska LLC Name Reservation? (In steps)

Filing an LLC name reservation in Alaska is a straightforward process that ensures your business name is protected before you officially form your LLC.

Here’s how to do it in simple steps:

Step 1: Check Name Availability

Before reserving your LLC name, you must confirm that it is available. Use the Alaska Corporations Database to search for existing business names and ensure your desired name is unique and compliant with state regulations.

Step 2: Complete the Name Reservation Application

To reserve your name, fill out the Name Reservation Application PDF form on the Alaska Division of Corporations, Business, and Professional Licensing website or use the online filing system.

You will need to provide the following information:

  • Your desired LLC name.
  • The name of the person or entity filing the reservation.
  • The duration of the reservation (up to 120 days).

Step 3: Submit the Application

Once the form is completed, you can mail it to the Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development, 550 W 7th AVE, STE 1535, Anchorage, AK 99501-3587.

Step 4: Pay the Reservation Fee

The filing fee for reserving your LLC name is $25. Ensure you make the payment as required to complete the reservation process.

Step 5: Confirmation of Reservation

After your application is processed, you will receive a confirmation notice that your LLC name has been successfully reserved.

This reservation lasts for 120 days, giving you ample time to file your LLC formation documents without worrying about someone else claiming your name.

Save Time & Money with Northwest!

Save $300 in formation fee today when you form your new Alaska LLC with Northwest Registered Agent. You get one year of free registered agent services and $39 filing discount.

Other Business Entities and Naming Considerations

When choosing a name for your LLC in Alaska, it’s important to consider other business entities, as well as branding strategies.

Doing Business As (DBAs) and Trade Names

A DBA, or “Doing Business As,” is a name that a business uses instead of its legal name. In Alaska, you can register a DBA to operate under a name that reflects your branding strategy.

This is especially useful if your LLC name doesn’t fully capture your business’s activities or target audience.

To register a DBA, you must check the availability of the name through the Alaska Division of Corporations. The name must be unique and not too similar to existing businesses.

Ensure that your DBA does not include restricted words that may require additional approvals. Key examples of restricted words include “bank,” “insurance,” or any terms that imply a different type of business entity.

Branding and Trademark Search

Effective branding is essential for any business. Your LLC name and DBA should resonate with your target market while adhering to legal guidelines.

Conducting a trademark search is crucial to avoid potential legal issues. You can check for existing trademarks through the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) database to ensure your chosen name is available.

Final Thoughts – Is it Worth it to Search and Reserve My Business in Alaska?

Reserving your LLC name in Alaska is a smart, cost-effective decision that provides valuable protection for your business. The process is simple, affordable, and ensures your desired name is exclusive for 120 days.

By searching for name availability first, you avoid the risk of legal conflicts or delays in forming your business.

Securing your name early gives you the time and peace of mind to align your branding across domains and social media handles.

Whether you’re just starting out or finalizing your business plans, reserving your name in Alaska is a small investment ($25) that safeguards your business’s future success and identity.

Related Posts on Alaska LLC:

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I check if an LLC name is available in Alaska?

To check if an LLC name is available, use the Alaska Corporations Database. You can search by entity name or number.

What is the process for searching for a registered business in Alaska?

You can search for a registered business in Alaska by visiting the Corporations, Business, and Professional Licensing search page. Enter the name or entity number to find the information you need.

Is there a Secretary of State office responsible for LLC name registration in Alaska?

Yes, the Division of Corporations, Business, and Professional Licensing under the Secretary of State manages LLC name registration in Alaska.

What are the steps to register a business name in Alaska?

To register a business name in Alaska, you must first check name availability, complete the necessary registration forms, and submit them with the required fees to the Division of Corporations.

Can I conduct an online search for a business entity in Alaska?

Yes, you can conduct an online search for business entities in Alaska. The search can be done through the official Corporations Database available on the state’s website.

Do I need a name reservation in Alaska?

A name reservation is not required in Alaska, but it is recommended if you want to ensure your LLC name is secured before filing your registration.

How much does it cost to reserve your LLC name in Alaska?

Reserving an LLC name in Alaska costs $25. This fee is subject to change, so it’s best to check with the Division of Corporations for the current amount.

How long does an Alaska LLC Name Reservation last?

An LLC name reservation in Alaska lasts for 120 days. You can use this time to prepare your registration documents without worrying about name availability.

Can I use the name of another Alaska entity?

No, you cannot use a name that is already in use by another registered entity in Alaska. The name must be unique for your LLC to be registered.

Do I need a business license in Alaska if I have an LLC?

Yes, having a business license is required in Alaska even if you form an LLC. This license ensures that you comply with local regulations.

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