How to Start an LLC in Alaska
To start an LLC in Alaska, file Articles of Organization with the Alaska Division of Corporations, Business, and Professional Licensing. This costs $250 and takes 10–15 business days for online approval.
There are 6 steps to start an LLC in Alaska:
- 1Choose an LLC Name
- 2Select a Registered Agent
- 3File Articles of Organization
- 4Create an Operating Agreement
- 5Get an EIN from the IRS
- 6File Your Biennial Report
How much does it cost to start an LLC in Alaska?
It costs $250 to start an LLC in Alaska. After formation, you will also owe $100 every 2 years for the File Your Biennial Report.
What are these fees for?
- The $250 is to file the Articles of Organization — the document that officially creates your LLC.
- The $100 every 2 years is for the File Your Biennial Report — a mandatory filing that keeps your LLC in good standing.
How long does it take to get an LLC in Alaska?
- Online filing: 10–15 business days
- Mail filing: 3–4 weeks
You can file online or by mail. Online filing is recommended for faster processing.
Steps to Form an LLC in Alaska
Step 1: Search Your LLC Name
Search your LLC name to make sure it's available in Alaska. Two businesses in the state cannot share the same name.
Step 2: Choose a Registered Agent
A Registered Agent is a person or company that accepts legal mail and state notices on behalf of your LLC. Alaska requires your Registered Agent to have a physical street address in the state — PO Boxes are not allowed. Your options:
- Yourself (if you have a physical address in Alaska)
- A friend or family member who lives in Alaska
- A professional Registered Agent service
Step 3: File Articles of Organization with Division of Corporations
To officially create your LLC, file the Articles of Organization with the Alaska Division of Corporations, Business, and Professional Licensing. The filing fee is $250.
You can file online or by mail. Online filing is recommended for faster processing.
Step 4: Create an Operating Agreement
An Operating Agreement is an internal document that shows who owns the LLC and how it will be run. You do not need to file it with the state or the IRS — just keep it with your business records. All LLCs should have one, even single-member LLCs.
Step 5: Get an EIN from the IRS
An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is your LLC's federal tax ID. It is free from the IRS and is needed to open a business bank account, hire employees, and file taxes.
- US residents with an SSN: Apply online at IRS.gov (takes ~15 minutes, free)
- Non-US residents without an SSN: Apply by fax or mail using Form SS-4 (takes 1–3 months)
Step 6: File Your Biennial Report
First due: January 2 of the next even-numbered year after formation
After Your LLC Is Approved
Open a business bank account
Keep business and personal finances separate to maintain liability protection. You will need your EIN and your stamped/approved Articles of Organization to open an account.
Get business licenses and permits
Alaska requires a state Business License ($50/year from the Division of Corporations). Check with your city or borough for additional local requirements.
Understand your tax obligations
LLCs don't pay federal income tax directly. Profits and losses pass through to the members, who report them on their personal federal tax returns.
Alaska has no state income tax, which is one of its major advantages for business owners.
Once your LLC is formed, TheLLCWiki has free tools for IRS name changes, address changes, EIN applications, and tax elections.