Decide on the legal structure of your business. See our business tax structure page. Common options include:

• Sole Proprietorship
• Partnership
• Limited Liability Company (LLC)
• Corporation
• C-Corporation (C-Corp)
• S-Corporation (S-Corp)
• Nonprofit

For more information, see our Tax Structure Guide!

Before registering, ensure your desired business name is available in Alaska.

• Check Name Availability: Alaska Business Name Search
• Reserve Your Name: File a Name Reservation Application through the Division of Corporations, Business, and Professional Licensing.
  • Fee: $25.
  • Reserve a Name Online

Submit the required formation documents based on your business structure:

• LLC: File Articles of Organization.
  • Fee: $250.
  • File Online or Download Forms
• Corporation: File Articles of Incorporation.
  • Fee: $250.
  • File Online or Download Forms

All businesses in Alaska must obtain a business license from the Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development.

• Application Fee: $50 per year or $100 for a two-year license.
• Apply for a Business License Online

If your business will hire employees or sell goods, you need to register for state taxes:

• Employment Taxes: Register with the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development.
  • Register Online
• Sales Tax: Alaska does not have a state sales tax, but local sales tax may apply. Check with your local jurisdiction.

Certain businesses may require additional permits or professional licenses:

• Professional Licensing Information

• Biennial Reports: LLCs and Corporations must file a biennial report every two years to maintain good standing.
  • Fee: $100 for LLCs, $200 for Corporations.
  • File a Biennial Report

• Alaska Division of Corporations, Business, and Professional Licensing: Visit Here
• Alaska Department of Revenue: Visit Here
• Alaska Small Business Development Center: Visit Here