Jake Lawson here. Alaska is one of the most entrepreneur-friendly states I work with—and that includes their approach to business names. After guiding dozens of Alaska LLC formations, I’ve learned the state has surprisingly flexible naming rules. But don’t let that fool you into skipping the proper search process.
Alaska might be the Last Frontier, but when it comes to LLC names, they’re surprisingly progressive. Here’s how to navigate their system and secure a name that works for your business.
Why Alaska’s Different (In a Good Way)
Most states are strict about name conflicts. Alaska? They’re refreshingly reasonable. The state allows “creative, unusual, or artistic spelling” to create distinguishability between business names.
What this means: “Riverwalk Studios” and “Riverwalk $tudio$” might both be acceptable in Alaska, where other states would reject the second one immediately.
Jake’s Reality Check: Just because Alaska allows creative spellings doesn’t mean you should use them. Think about your customers, your credibility, and your long-term brand before getting too artistic with your name.
Alaska’s Corporate Database Search: Simple but Effective
Alaska uses a straightforward search system that’s refreshingly user-friendly compared to some states I work with.
Direct link: www.commerce.alaska.gov/cbp/main/search/entities
The interface is clean, fast, and actually works properly—which is more than I can say for some state systems.
The Alaska Name Search Method
Here’s my systematic approach for Alaska LLC name searches:
Step 1: Use the “Contains” Setting
Critical: Always keep the search set to “Contains,” not “Starts With.”
Why? “Starts With” will miss variations like “The Gamer Guy Inc.” when you search “Gamer Guy.” In Alaska, filler words don’t create distinguishability, so these names would conflict.
Step 2: Search Core Names Only
Don’t include:
- LLC designators (“LLC,” “Limited Liability Company”)
- Punctuation (commas, periods, apostrophes)
- Filler words (“The,” “A,” “And”)
Example: For “Riverwalk Studios LLC,” search “Riverwalk Studios”
Step 3: Run Multiple Variations
Search each significant word individually:
- “Riverwalk Studios” (full name)
- “Riverwalk” (main identifier)
- “Studios” (descriptive element)
Jake’s Pro Tip: Alaska’s lenient rules don’t excuse sloppy research. Be thorough—it takes 10 extra minutes but prevents headaches later.
Reading Alaska Search Results
Alaska’s search shows all business entity types. Here’s how to interpret what you see:
Green Light Scenarios
No results: Your name is likely available, but double-check with individual keyword searches.
Clearly different results: If you want “Northern Lights Consulting” and only see “Northern Exposure Tours” and “Bright Lights Marketing,” you’re good.
Yellow Light Scenarios (Alaska’s Specialty)
Similar names with creative spelling: Alaska might allow both “Kodiak Adventures” and “Kodiak Adventur3s” to coexist. But should you? That’s a branding decision.
Similar but different descriptors: “Aurora Cruise Lines” vs “Aurora Cruises” might both be acceptable.
Red Light Scenarios
Exact matches: If “Northern Lights Consulting LLC” already exists, you can’t use it.
Too similar without distinguishing factors: Standard similarity rules still apply for conventional spellings.
Alaska LLC Name Requirements: The Basics
Required Designators
Your LLC name must end with one of these:
- LLC
- L.L.C.
- Limited Liability Company
- Ltd. Liability Co.
- Limited Liability Co.
- Ltd. Liability Company
Jake’s Recommendation: Stick with “LLC.” It’s universally recognized and fits on forms better.
Prohibited Elements
Can’t sound like other entity types: Inc., Corp., Corporation, Incorporated, Cooperative
Can’t mislead about location or government connection: You can use city names like “Kenai Coffee LLC” but not “Anchorage City Company LLC”
Can’t imply unlicensed professional services: Attorney, CPA, Doctor (unless you’re licensed)
Alaska’s Unique City/Borough Rule
Alaska has a specific rule about municipal names:
Allowed:
- Kenai Coffee LLC
- Safety Consultants Sitka LLC
- Juneau Jumpers LLC
Not allowed:
- Anchorage City Company LLC
- Village of Nome LLC
Jake’s Insight: This reflects Alaska’s practical approach—they want to prevent confusion about government entities while allowing geographic branding.
Alaska’s Distinguishability Rules: More Flexible Than Most
What DOESN’T Create Distinguishability
Entity type differences: “Natchik Fishing LLC” vs “Natchik Fishing Inc.” = Same name
Filler words: Alaska specifically lists these as non-distinguishing:
- a, an, and, by, for, in, plus, the, to, with
Standard punctuation variations: “Jenny Jams” vs “Jenny-Jams” = Same name
What MIGHT Create Distinguishability (Alaska’s Specialty)
Creative/artistic spelling: “Studio” vs “$tudio$” might both be allowed
Additional descriptive words: “Pacific Consulting” vs “Pacific Legal Consulting”
Different industry focus: “Smith Construction” vs “Smith Catering”
The DBA/Trade Name Twist
Alaska calls DBAs “Trade Business Names,” and here’s the catch: you need both a name registration ($25) AND a separate business license for each trade name.
Example Process:
- Form “Aurora Enterprises LLC”
- File Trade Business Name for “Aurora Cruises” ($25)
- Get separate business license for “Aurora Cruises”
Jake’s Take: This dual requirement makes DBAs more expensive in Alaska than most states. Factor this into your naming strategy.
Advanced Alaska Strategies
Leverage Alaska’s Flexibility Wisely
Alaska’s lenient approach creates opportunities, but use them strategically:
Good use: “Arctic Adventures” and “Artic Adventures” (common misspelling) might both be allowed, giving you brand protection
Bad use: “$unshine Tour$” looks unprofessional regardless of legality
Geographic Branding Opportunities
Alaska allows extensive use of place names. Consider:
- City names: Fairbanks, Juneau, Anchorage
- Geographic features: Denali, Yukon, Glacier
- Regional identifiers: Interior, Southeast, Arctic
Entity Status Considerations
“Delinquent” status: Name still protected, not available for use
“Dissolved” status: Name becomes available for new use
Jake’s Caution: Even if a dissolved company’s name is legally available, research why they dissolved and whether there’s residual brand recognition (positive or negative).
When to Call Alaska’s Division of Corporations
Alaska’s staff is generally helpful and knowledgeable. Call 907-465-2550 when:
- You’re unsure if creative spelling creates sufficient distinguishability
- You want clarification on geographic name usage
- You need guidance on trade name requirements
- You’re considering a name similar to a dissolved entity
Hours: 8am-5pm Alaska Time, Monday-Friday
Jake’s Experience: Alaska’s government employees are typically more helpful than average. Don’t hesitate to call with legitimate questions.
Common Alaska Name Mistakes
Mistake #1: Assuming creative spelling automatically makes names distinguishable
Mistake #2: Forgetting about the dual filing requirement for trade names
Mistake #3: Not researching dissolved entities thoroughly
Mistake #4: Overusing geographic terms without strategic purpose
Professional vs DIY Assessment
Alaska’s system is straightforward enough for DIY research, but consider professional help if:
- You’re planning multiple trade names
- Your business will operate across state lines
- You’re in a regulated industry
- You want comprehensive trademark research
Services like Northwest Registered Agent ($39 + state fee) handle Alaska formations competently and include name research.
What makes a business name distinguishable?
The Alaska Secretary of State provides guidance on this through their Distinguishable Business Name page. It explains the rules and requirements for ensuring your LLC’s name stands out from existing names in the state.
Alaska Name Search FAQ
Q: Can I use the same name as a corporation if I’m forming an LLC? A: No. Alaska compares LLC names against all entity types.
Q: How creative can I get with spelling variations? A: Alaska allows artistic spelling, but consider professionalism and customer recognition.
Q: Do I need to check federal trademarks too? A: Not for state LLC formation, but it’s wise for comprehensive brand protection.
Q: What if I want to expand to other states later? A: Research name availability in target states. Alaska’s flexibility doesn’t extend elsewhere.
Q: How long do dissolved entity names stay unavailable? A: Dissolved entities lose name protection immediately, but research the business history first.
My Complete Alaska Search Process
Follow this exact checklist:
- Brainstorm 5-8 potential names including creative variations
- Check domain availability for all variations
- Run systematic Alaska database searches using the method above
- Research any dissolved entities with similar names
- Consider trade name implications if you plan multiple business names
- Verify geographic name usage doesn’t imply government connection
- Call Division of Corporations with any questions (907-465-2550)
- Choose final name with 2-3 backup options ready
The Alaska Advantage
Alaska’s approach to business names reflects the state’s practical, entrepreneur-friendly attitude. The flexibility around creative spelling and geographic names creates opportunities you won’t find in more restrictive states.
But remember: just because you CAN use a certain name doesn’t mean you SHOULD. Consider your target market, professional image, and long-term brand goals.
The bottom line: Alaska makes it easier to get a distinctive business name, but the responsibility for making it a GOOD business name still rests with you.
Ready to search for your Alaska LLC name? Use the systematic approach I’ve outlined, take advantage of Alaska’s flexibility wisely, and don’t forget to research the broader implications of your naming choices. The Last Frontier offers great opportunities for creative entrepreneurs who do their homework.
Jake Lawson is an LLC formation strategist who has guided over 1,200 entrepreneurs through U.S. business formation across all 50 states. His state-by-state expertise helps clients navigate unique requirements while avoiding common pitfalls. Connect with Jake at llciyo.com for unbiased business formation guidance.