How to File an Alaska DBA


Registering an Alaska DBA (Doing Business As) is a simple process that is completed with the Department of Commerce.

Learn How to File an Alaska DBA yourself in two simple steps:

  1. Choose and Search for Your Alaska DBA Name
  2. Register Your Alaska DBA

You can hire a professional service such as LegalZoom to file your DBA for you. Their packages start at $99 (plus state fees).

Image showing a man looking up on the computer how to file a D B A in Alaska

DBA Alaska - Learn How to File an Alaska DBA in 2 Steps

Step 1: Start With an Alaska DBA Name Search

If you haven't already, head on over to the Alaska Department of Commerce website to make sure your business name isn't taken by another registered entity in Alaska. Your name can be similar to other business names, but it’s still a good practice to create a unique name.

TIP: Our business name generator tool is a great resource for entrepreneurs who are still working to create the perfect business name or website address. You can also use our free logo generator tool to make a logo yourself! No design experience necessary!

In Alaska, your business name should not include:

  • Any business entity suffix, such as LLC, Incorporated, Corp., etc., unless the business is actually an LLC, corporation, or etc.
  • Words that mislead as to the primary function of the business.
  • Words with professional licensing restrictions, unless the business has the proper license.

Next, a quick search on the U.S. Trademark Electronic Search System will tell you whether someone else has already trademarked your name.

Now would be the perfect time to make sure there’s a web domain available for your DBA as well.

Find a Domain Now

After registering a domain name for your DBA, consider using a business phone service to improve customer satisfaction and further establish credibility. Our top pick is Nextiva because of its affordable pricing and useful features. Start calling with Nextiva.

Step 2: Register Your Alaska DBA with the State

Before you register your DBA, you must have an Alaska business license. If you don't have a business license, you need to register by filling out the New Business License application or filing online.

In Alaska, you register your DBA with the Department of Commerce. You can file online, or you can complete the new business name registration form.

The application will ask for your new DBA name and information about your business, such as:

  • Section 3: List your new trade name, business license number, and business type.
  • Section 5: Business owner’s name and address, and the owner’s entity number if applicable
  • Section 6: Name and address of partners if the business owner is a partnership
  • Section 7: Description of the nature of the business

There are also separate contact information and credit card payment forms that must be completed. These forms are attached to the New Business Name Registration form.

A DBA does not offer any protection for your personal assets in the event that your business is sued. For more information on setting up a limited liability company, visit our How to Form an LLC page and select your state.


Submit Your Business Name Registration Form

Online: Alaska Online Filing Services

Mail:
Corporations Section
P.O. Box 110806
Juneau, AK 99811-0806

Filing Cost: $25

Manage Your Alaska DBA

DBA Questions

Call Alaska’s Corporations Section: (907) 465-2550

Renew Your DBA with the State

Your Alaska DBA should be renewed by December 31st of the fifth year after registration and every five years after that. You can renew online or by completing and mailing the business name renewal form. The renewal fee is $25. Mail the completed form and payment to the address below:

Corporations Section
P.O. Box 110806
Juneau, AK 99811-0806

Change Your DBA

Changing a DBA name generally requires a new business license. You can apply online or by filling out the New Business License Application. Mail the completed form to:

Corporations Section
P.O. Box 110806
Juneau, AK 99811-0806

Withdraw Your DBA

To cancel your trade name, you will need to submit a Request to Cancel or Inactivate Business License. Note that doing this cancels your business license, not just your DBA. You cannot complete this form online. Mail the completed form to the address below:

Corporations Section
P.O. Box 110806
Juneau, AK 99811-0806

Need Help Filing Your Alaska DBA?

Have a Professional Service File Your Alaska DBA For You

A professional service will handle filing your DBA on your behalf, allowing you to focus on the other needs of your new business.

We recommend using LegalZoom ($99 + state fee) for a personalized DBA service.

FAQ DBA Alaska

Can I file a DBA online in Alaska?

Yes, you can file your DBA online on the Alaska Department of Commerce's website.

How do I change my DBA in Alaska?

To make changes to your Alaska business name, you must register for a new business license, either online or by filling out the New Business License Application and mailing it to the address below:

Corporations Section
P.O. Box 110806
Juneau, AK 99811-0806

How can I insure my Alaska DBA?

DBAs don’t require insurance because DBAs aren't a business entity. However, the business entity that the DBA is under will need protection from losses that can happen naturally in the course of business, such as property damage or lawsuits.

We recommend Tivly because they provide coverage for a large variety of businesses. Get a free quote from Tivly or call 855-965-3168 to learn more.

How can I withdraw my Alaska DBA?

To cancel your business name, you will need to submit a Request to Cancel or Inactivate Business License. Mail the completed form to the address below:

Corporations Section
P.O. Box 110806
Juneau, AK 99811-0806

How often should I renew my Alaska DBA?

Your Alaska DBA should be renewed by December 31st of the fifth year after registration and every five years after that. You can renew online or by completing and mailing the Business Name Registration Renewal form to the address below:

Corporations Section
P.O. Box 110806
Juneau, AK 99811-0806

When is a DBA required in Alaska?

A DBA is required to perform business activities under a name different from the business organization’s legal name.

How do I transfer my DBA in Alaska?

You will need to file for a new business license to transfer your DBA.

You can apply online or by filling out this New Business License Application. Mail the completed form to the address below:

Corporations Section
P.O. Box 110806
Juneau, AK 99811-0806

Is my Alaska DBA protected from being used in other places?

There are some state-level laws that prevent DBAs that are too similar to existing ones from being used, but your name is not protected outside Alaska. It is possible to create a federal trademark for a DBA, which would offer stronger protection across state lines.

How many DBAs can I have?

You can have as many DBAs as you can afford to create and are able to keep track of. However, more isn’t necessarily better. Each one will come with additional incremental expense and paperwork, so you will want to make sure you have a good reason for each one you have.

Can a DBA get an EIN or Tax ID?

DBAs aren’t required to have a separate EIN because DBAs aren’t a business entity. The business entity that the DBA is under would have an EIN if an EIN is required.

To learn more about EINs and when you would need one for your business, read What is an EIN from our friends at TRUiC.

Can a DBA become an LLC?

Your DBA is just a name. A DBA is often confused with a sole proprietorship. If you mean “can my sole proprietorship become an LLC?” then the answer is “Yes. Absolutely.”

To learn how to form an LLC, visit our Form an LLC state guides.

Can a DBA have "Inc." in the name?

A DBA can only have "Inc." in the name if the business entity the DBA is attached to is a corporation.

How do I set up a DBA for a rental property?

It’s always best to consult an attorney. Usually, the best option is to Form an LLC to protect your personal assets in the event of an issue with the rental property. Holding the rental property in your name and with a DBA will not afford you any protection.