Changing Your Business Name in Alaska | A Step-by-Step Guide

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Change Alaska Business Name

In Alaska, change is inevitable in today’s dynamic business environment. One such change that a business may undergo is a change in its name. A business owner might change their name for numerous reasons, even when starting an LLC in Alaska. Whatever the reason, changing a business name in Alaska can be a complicated process. Still, it’s essential to do it right to avoid potential legal issues and ensure a smooth transition. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to successfully Change a Business Name in Alaska.

Webinarcare Editorial Team will help you change your business name when necessary. You must be guided by all the factors gathered in this article.

How to Change a Business Name in Alaska

Before Changing Your Business Name in Alaska

Before you embark on the process of changing your business name, there are several considerations to keep in mind:

  • Research: Ensure that your new business name in Alaska is unique and not already in use by another company in Alaska. To avoid potential trademark infringement, you can conduct a preliminary search using the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) database.
  • Notify Stakeholders: Inform your employees, customers, suppliers, and other stakeholders about the upcoming name change to avoid confusion and ensure a smooth transition.
  • Update Marketing Materials: Revise your marketing materials, such as your website, business cards, signage, and social media profiles, to reflect the new Alaska business name.
  • Consider the Impact on Existing Contracts and Agreements: Review your existing contracts and agreements to determine if they will be affected by the name change. You may need to renegotiate these contracts or obtain new ones under the new Alaska business name.

You should also amend the Alaska Articles of Organization and the operating agreement once you have changed your business name. The information should be up to date so your Alaska business won’t have any legal problems in the future. Check out the Best Trademark Services in Alaska to know whether your desired business name is available.

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How to Change a Business Name in Alaska

Depending on the kind of business entity you have, several processes may be involved in changing your business name in the Alaska. Here is a detailed explanation of each business structure:

Changing your company name in Alaska is relatively easy. Before we go into the steps, you should know that some rules must be followed when naming a business in Alaska. The name conventions may change depending on the type of corporate structure. The business must adhere to the following rules while changing the company name:

  • It should be possible to utilize the name.
  • Any other businesses do not use the name.
  • If the new entity is a limited liability company, the name must include “LLC.“
  • The name should be distinct from any governmental agency or institution, including banks and treasuries.

If you decide to start an LLC, read about the Alaska Business Name Search to check if your desired business name is available. Let’s now examine the procedures for changing the company name:

It is suggested that you speak with a legal professional before you begin changing your business name. They’ll understand what’s best for you and your company. To have an easy process for naming your LLC, you can alwasy hire the Best LLC Services for your business.

– WEBINARCARE EDITORIAL TEAM

Step 1: Choose a New Name For Your Business

You must decide on a new name before officially changing your business name in Alaska. Conduct thorough research to ensure the new name is unique, memorable, and represents your company’s values and services. You should also ensure that another business in Alaska does not already use the new name to avoid legal issues and customer confusion.

Some tips for choosing a new business name include:

  • Brainstorm a list of potential names and ask for feedback from friends, family, employees, and customers.
  • Consider the potential impact of the new name on your existing customers, partners, and vendors.
  • Research the availability of relevant domain names and social media handles to ensure a consistent online presence.

Before proceeding with the name change process, ensuring your chosen name is available in Alaska is essential. You must conduct a name search through the Alaska Division of Corporations, Business, and Professional Licensing to do this.

If your desired name is already in use or too similar to an existing business name in Alaska, you must choose another name and repeat the search process. However, you can register your business under a different legal name if your preferred name isn’t available.  Once you have chosen a name, you can submit an application for a DBA (doing business as) in Alaska. In this manner, you can choose any name you desire for your business. A DBA allows a company to operate under the name of the person or entity who owns it. If you have decided to file for a DBA, you can file it in two methods, online and by mail.

However, before filing a DBA, you should know that you need to renew your DBA for up to five years, which costs $25.

In Alaska, if you do not wish to file your LLC right away but want to hold the name that you have decided on, then you can reserve your LLC name for 120 days. You must file a name reservation application with the Alaska Secretary of State to keep the name. 

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Step 2: Prepare Documents to File the Articles of Amendment

After choosing a new business name in Alaska, you must begin putting together the Articles of Amendment as soon as you are prepared with the new Alaska business name. You must send the following information with the name change form: 

  • Current company name
  • New company name
  • Members’ (LLC) or Shareholders’ signatures (Corporation)
  • Alaska filing fee for amendments
  • The business’s entity number, as provided by the state of Alaska
  • Board of Directors expression of approval (for corporations)
  • Details about shares (if applicable)

When registering a new business name with the Alaska Secretary of State, you must provide the list of information indicated above. Ensure the information you offer for the Amendment corresponds to the initial filing materials. Please do so to avoid the registration being canceled.

Step 3: File the Articles of Amendment

Once you’ve confirmed that your new business name is available, you must file the necessary paperwork with the Alaska Secretary of State’s office to change your business name officially. This process typically involves filing an amendment to your company’s Articles of Incorporation for a corporation or Articles of Organization for an LLC, depending on your business structure.

To file the amendment, you’ll need to:

  1. Obtain the appropriate amendment form from the Alaska Secretary of State.
  2. Fill out the form with the required information, including your current business name, new business name, and any other required details.
  3. Pay the filing fee, which may vary depending on your business structure and Alaska regulations. In Alaska, amendment cost is $25.
  4. Submit the completed form and payment to the Alaska Secretary of State’s office, either by mail or online, depending on your Alaska’s filing options.

Once your amendment has been processed and approved, your business name will officially be changed in Alaska.

Things to do After Filing the Articles of Amendment

Additional considerations in filing the Articles of Amendment in Alaska.

After changing your business name, there are a few additional steps you may need to take:

  • Update your EIN: If your business has an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), you may need to notify the IRS of the name change. You can do this by writing a letter to the IRS or completing and submitting Form 8822-B.
  • Update your Business License: If your business operates with a business license, you must update the license with the new business name. You can do this by filing Alaska business license and paying an application fee ranging from $50 – $300.
  • Notify the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development: If your business has employees, you will need to notify the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development of the name change.
  • Update your Local Tax and Business Registrations: Depending on your local jurisdiction, you may need to update your local tax and business registrations with the new business name.

Why Change Your Business Name?

There are various reasons why a  business owner might want to change their business name. These can include:

  • Rebranding: If your current Alaska business name no longer reflects your products or services, rebranding can help revitalize your company’s image and attract new customers.
  • Expanding or Refocusing: Your business may have evolved over time, and the original name may no longer accurately represent the scope of your operations.
  • Merger or Acquisition: If your business merges with another company or is acquired, a name change might be necessary to reflect the new owner or combined services.
  • Legal Issues: If your business name infringes on a trademark or is too similar to another company’s name, you may need to change it to avoid legal disputes.
  • Improved Marketability: A new business name in Alaska can be more memorable, easier to pronounce, or better suited to your target audience.

How Long Does Changing The Business Name Take?

The time it takes to change a business name can vary depending on factors such as the Alaska’s processing times, the method of submission (online or by mail), and whether all necessary information and fees have been submitted correctly. Generally, once you have submitted the required paperwork and fees to the Alaska Secretary of State, it can take a few days to several weeks for the name change to be processed and approved.

What Happens If I Don’t Update the Website or Stationery?

If you change your business name in Alaska but do not update your website, stationery, or other marketing materials, you may face several potential issues:

  • Customer Confusion: Your customers may need clarification about the change in the business name and may not recognize that your company is the same one they have previously done business with. This confusion could lead to a loss of trust and potentially a loss of customers.
  • Inconsistency in Branding: When your business name is inconsistent across all platforms, including your website and stationery, it can negatively impact your brand image. Not updating your marketing materials may make your company appear unprofessional or disorganized, which could harm your reputation.
  • Legal Issues: Depending on Alaska regulations, you may be legally required to update your marketing materials with your new business name. Failure to do so could result in penalties or fines. Additionally, if you use a trading name or DBA (Doing Business As) name, you may need to register that name separately with the appropriate government authority to avoid legal issues.
  • Communication Problems: Please update your website and stationery with your new Alaska business name to avoid issues. Clients, vendors, and other partners may not recognize the new name and may not associate it with your company, leading to missed opportunities and potential misunderstandings.

To avoid these potential issues, updating your website, stationery, and all other marketing materials as soon as possible after changing your Alaska business name is essential. This ensures that your customers know the change, maintains consistency in your branding, and helps prevent legal or communication.

If I Have a Foreign LLC, Can I Change the Name Aside from the Original Name?

Yes, if you have a foreign LLC in Alaska (a limited liability company formed in one state but doing business in another state), you can change the name of the foreign LLC. 

FAQs

How do I change my business name in Alaska?
To change your business name in Alaska, you must file a name change certificate with the Alaska Secretary of State’s office.
What is the cost to change a business name in Alaska?
The cost to change a business name in Alaska is $25.
Will I need to get a new EIN if I change my business name in Alaska?
No, you do not need to get a new EIN if you change your business name in Alaska.
How long does it take to change a business name in Alaska?
It typically takes one to two business days for the Alaska Secretary of State’s office to process a name change request.
Can I change my business name online in Alaska?
Yes, you can change your business name online in Alaska using the Alaska Business Name Change Form on the Secretary of State’s website.
Do I need to notify the Alaska Department of Revenue if I change my business name?
Yes, you must notify the Alaska Department of Revenue of any changes to your business name.
Can I change my business name and ownership at the same time in Alaska?
Yes, you can change your business name and ownership at the same time in Alaska.
What documents do I need to submit to change my business name in Alaska?
You need to submit a name change certificate to the Alaska Secretary of State’s office to change your business name.
Do I need to obtain a new business license if I change my business name in Alaska?
Yes, you must obtain a new business license if you change your business name in Alaska.
How do I update my business name with the Alaska Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing?
To update your business name with the Alaska Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing, you must file a new application for your business license.
Do I need to inform my customers and vendors if I change my business name in Alaska?
Yes, it is recommended to inform your customers and vendors if you change your business name in Alaska.
How do I know if my new business name is available in Alaska?
You can search for available business names in Alaska on the Alaska Business Name Availability website.
Can I change my business name with the Alaska Secretary of State if I am not a resident of Alaska?
Yes, you can change your business name with the Alaska Secretary of State if you are not a resident of Alaska.
Can I use a name that is already in use when changing my business name in Alaska?
No, you cannot use a name that is already in use when changing your business name in Alaska.
What if my business name change request is rejected by the Alaska Secretary of State’s office?
If your business name change request is rejected by the Alaska Secretary of State’s office, you will be notified of the reason for the rejection.
Can I change my business name if I have outstanding taxes owed to the State of Alaska?
Yes, you can change your business name even if you have outstanding taxes owed to the State of Alaska.
How do I change my business name in Alaska if I have a sole proprietorship?
If you have a sole proprietorship, you can change your business name by filing a new “doing business as” name with the Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development.
Do I need to update my business name on my business bank accounts?
Yes, you must update your business name on your business bank accounts after changing your business name in Alaska.
Can I change my business name to something completely different?
Yes, you can change your business name to something completely different in Alaska.
Will changing my business name in Alaska affect my business credit score?
No, changing your business name in Alaska does not directly affect your business credit score.
Can I change my business name back to its original name in Alaska?
Yes, you can change your business name back to its original name in Alaska.
Can I change the spelling of my business name when I change it in Alaska?
Yes, you can change the spelling of your business name when you change it in Alaska.
What happens if I don’t change my business name in Alaska but continue to do business under a different name?
If you continue to do business under a different name without changing your business name in Alaska, you may face legal or financial penalties.
Why would I want to change my business name in Alaska?
You may want to change your business name in Alaska if you are rebranding, changing ownership, or feel that your current name is no longer a good representation of your business.
Is there a limit to how many times I can change my business name in Alaska?
No, there is no limit to how many times you can change your business name in Alaska, but it is recommended to avoid doing so frequently.
When do I need to file my business name change with the Alaska Secretary of State’s office?
You must file your business name change with the Alaska Secretary of State’s office within 60 days of the change.
Can I change my business name to a name that has been previously trademarked in Alaska?
No, you cannot change your business name to a name that has been previously trademarked in Alaska.
Can I change my business name if I am currently involved in a lawsuit in Alaska?
It may be possible to change your business name if you are currently involved in a lawsuit in Alaska, but you should consult with an attorney before doing so.
Can I change my business entity type at the same time I change my business name in Alaska?
Yes, you can change your business entity type at the same time you change your business name in Alaska, but it may require additional paperwork and fees.
Do I need a lawyer to change my business name in Alaska?
It is not required to have a lawyer to change your business name in Alaska, but it may be helpful to seek legal advice if you have any questions.
Will I need to update my Alaska business license when changing my business name?
Yes, you will need to update your Alaska business license to reflect your new business name.
What should I do about my business name on my business bank account?
Contact your bank to update your business name on your account.
Do I need to update my business name with the IRS for federal taxes?
Yes, you will need to update your business name with the IRS by filing Form SS-4.
What if my preferred business name is already taken in Alaska?
You will need to choose a different business name that is not already registered in Alaska.
Can I reserve my new business name in Alaska before officially changing it?
Yes, you can reserve a business name in Alaska for 120 days by filing a Business Name Reservation form.
How long does it take to get a business name reservation in Alaska?
It typically takes 5 to 7 business days for your business name reservation to be approved in Alaska.
Can I change my business name in Alaska anytime I want?
Yes, you can change your business name in Alaska at any time you want as long as the name is available.
Will changing my business name affect my Alaska business entity type?
No, changing your business name will not change your Alaska business entity type.
Is there a limit to the number of times you can change your business name in Alaska?
No, there is no limit to the number of times you can change your business name in Alaska.
Will customers be notified of my business name change in Alaska?
You will need to notify your customers of your business name change in Alaska through your website, social media, and other marketing materials.
Do I need to update my business name on my contracts and agreements?
Yes, you will need to update your business name on all of your contracts and agreements after changing your business name in Alaska.
Will I need to file a new EIN application if I change my business name in Alaska?
No, if you have an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for your business, you can keep it even if you change your business name in Alaska.
Will I need to update my business name on my business website and emails?
Yes, you will need to update your business name on your website and emails after changing your business name in Alaska.
Can I change my business name in Alaska if I have outstanding taxes?
You will need to clear any outstanding taxes before changing your business name in Alaska.
Do I need a new Alaska business license to change my business name?
No, you can use your existing Alaska business license after changing your business name.
Will I need to notify my employees of my business name change in Alaska?
Yes, you will need to notify your employees of your business name change and update their information accordingly.
Do I need to change my business name on my Alaska sales and use tax license?
Yes, you will need to change your business name on your Alaska sales and use tax license after changing your business name.
Can I change my business name in Alaska if I have a trade name or DBA?
Yes, you can change your trade name or DBA along with your business name in Alaska through the Business Name Change form.
How long does it take to receive my new business name certificate in Alaska?
It takes approximately 5 to 7 business days to receive your new business name certificate in Alaska.
How can I check if my new business name is available in Alaska?
You can check the availability of your new business name in Alaska through the Division of Corporations’ website.
If I re-brand my business, do I have to change my business name in Alaska?
If you want to re-brand your business, you may choose to change your business name in Alaska to reflect your new branding.
Will changing my business name in Alaska affect my business credit scores?
Changing your business name in Alaska may impact your business credit scores, so you should update all of your existing accounts with your new business name.
Can I change my business name in Alaska if I am facing a lawsuit?
If you are facing a lawsuit, you may need to consult with legal counsel before changing your business name in Alaska.
Is my business name change in Alaska effective immediately?
Your business name change in Alaska is effective immediately after processing and approval.

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Conclusion

Changing your business name in Alaska can be a strategic decision that helps your company evolve and remain competitive. By following the steps outlined in this guide and conducting thorough research, you can ensure that your business name change is completed legally and efficiently. Remember to notify all relevant stakeholders, update your marketing materials, and revise any contracts or agreements to reflect the new business name.

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