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Business Licensing

Selecting a Name for your Business

Selecting your business name is like laying the cornerstone of a building. Once in place, the entire foundation of the business (i.e. operations, advertising, banking, taxes, assets, etc.) aligns with that “cornerstone”.

Business License name requirements:

  • Per 12 AAC 12.020(a) a business license is required for each [different] business name under which an applicant seeks to engage in business.
  • Per 12 AAC 12.020(g) in advertising and operating a business must use the business name exactly as it appears on the business license.
What is a DBA, AKA or trade business license name? Conduct a thorough name search Entity indicators (i.e. INC, LLC, LLP, LP, etc.) in a business name. Avoid name restrictions. Distinguishable business name. Exclusive rights to a business name. Still need help? IMPORTANT

It is important to note this Division's role is ministerial, not judicial. Our function is to approve or disapprove a name based upon statutes and regulation. Approval or disapproval of a name is not a determination of legal rights. A determination made by the Division may be appealed to the Superior Court for a trial de novo.

This Division does not provide legal advice. The information contained within these webpages is provided for your convenience and is not to be interpreted as legal advice. It is your responsibility to know what your registering, reporting and filing requirements are based on your specific business activities. Not knowing what is expected of you may not preclude you from the legal obligation to meet these requirements and compliance with the law. You are encouraged to seek the advice of a professional, such as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and/or Attorney if you need additional assistance.

Contact Us

When contacting this office, please direct your questions to the appropriate Section: Corporations, Professional Licensing, or Business Licensing. Each Section specializes in its own requirements per Alaska statutes and regulations.

Professional Licensing Section
Email: License@Alaska.Gov

Corporations Section
Email: Corporations@Alaska.Gov

Business Licensing Section
Email: BusinessLicense@Alaska.Gov