How to Change Business Name in Alaska

Changing a business name can give your company a new lease on life, but following the correct legal procedures is essential to ensure a smooth transition. The name is the first identity of your business. If you run it for a while and then decide to change, you must update the new name everywhere. In Alaska, popularly known as The Last Frontier, the process of modifying your business name can be quite straightforward, provided you adhere to the necessary rules and regulations.

You must follow some steps and regulations while changing your business name. For example, if you start an LLC in Alaska, you must follow specific regulations the Alaska state government sets. The current population of the so-called The Last Frontier is 740,339. Changing the name of your existing business in any city (especially in the capital, Juneau) might affect your business reputation and existing customers adversely. Hence, before you change the name of your business, make sure the decision is rightfully taken.

Technically, the process of changing your business name in Alaska involves three major steps. In this article, I have shared how to change a business name in Alaska. To learn everything about changing a business name, I recommend you read the whole article till the end.

On this page, you’ll learn about the following:

Reasons to Change a Business Name in Alaska
- Things to Consider Before Changing Your Business Name in Alaska
How to Change a Business Name in Alaska
Things to do After Filing the Alaska Amendment
FAQs

Reasons to Change a Business Name in Alaska

Rebranding: A business may want to change its name in Alaska to reflect the new brand identity, target a different market, or signify a shift in the company’s vision and goals.
Merger or acquisition: If a business in Alaska merges with or is acquired by another company, a name change may be necessary to represent the combined entity accurately.
Legal reasons: A business in Alaska may need to change its name due to trademark disputes, cease and desist letters, or other legal issues.
Expanding to new markets: If a business in Alaska is looking to expand into new regions or countries, a name change may be needed to avoid confusion with existing businesses in those markets or to appeal to a broader audience.
Negative associations: A business in Alaska may want to change its name if the current name has become associated with negative events, such as scandals or poor customer experiences.
Simplifying the name: A business in Alaska may choose to change its name to a simpler or more memorable one, making it easier for customers to remember and find.
Reflecting a change in ownership: If a business in Alaska changes ownership, the new owners might change the business name.

Things to Consider Before Changing Your Business Name in Alaska

There are a few things to consider before you change your existing business name. A business name change is a huge decision for any company. Changing the business name in Alaska frequently is neither easy nor desirable. If it is absolutely necessary to change the business name, you must consider the following points-

Legal requirements: Ensure you follow the necessary legal steps to change your business name in Alaska.
Name availability: Search the Alaska business registry to make sure your desired new name is available and does not infringe on any existing trademarks or business names.
Impact on branding and marketing: Assess how a name change will affect your existing brand identity, marketing materials, and overall company image in Alaska.
Customer perception and loyalty: Consider how your current customers in Alaska will react to a name change and whether it may cause confusion or negatively impact customer loyalty.
Costs associated with the name change: Changing your business name in Alaska may involve costs such as new signage, website updates, and reprinting marketing materials. Be sure to budget for these expenses.
Updating licenses and permits: You must update any licenses, permits, and registrations with the new business name in Alaska.
Maintaining continuity: Consider maintaining continuity with your old name during the transition period and address any potential confusion among customers and clients in Alaska.
Tax implications: Consult with a tax professional to understand any tax consequences or implications of changing your business name in Alaska.
Reputation management: Be prepared to manage your online reputation during the transition, as customers may leave reviews or comments on social media related to the business name change.

How to Change a Business Name in Alaska

Changing your business name in Alaska is not difficult, as I mentioned. But, before we start with the steps, you must know that one must follow some LLC naming guidelines while naming their LLC. Based on the type of business structure, naming guidelines may vary. Following are some of the guidelines an LLC must follow while changing the business name-

The name should be available to use
Any other business does not use the name.
The new name must include “LLC” if it is a limited liability company.
The name should not be confused with a government entity, such as banks, treasury, or any governmental organization.

Read Alaska LLC name search to learn about LLC naming if you form an LLC. Now, let’s dive into the steps to change the business name-

Step 1: Choose the New Name for Your Business

The first step is to choose a new name for your business. Many people file a DBA (Doing Business As) or a Fictitious Name before filing their business with the SOS. Later, they can change that name and get a new one when filing their business. When you decide to change the name of your business, you can search for the name to check if the new name is already taken or available for you to use.

To choose a new name, you must go through the same process you did when you first named your business. You go to the Alaska SOS, search for the name, check if the name is available to use if it is available, finalize it and proceed to the next step.

Step 2: Prepare Documents to File the Amendment

As soon as you are ready with the new business name, you must start preparing to file the Alaska Amendment. Along with the name change form, you must submit the following details,

Current business name
New business name
The entity number of the business – issued by Alaska state
Board of Directors’ approval statement (for corporations)
Information of shares (if applicable)
Signatures of members (LLC) or Shareholders (Corporation)
Alaska amendment filing fee

You must submit the above-mentioned list of details to the Alaska SOS while filing the new business name. Ensure the details you provide for the Amendment are consistent with the initial filing documents. Failing to do so might result in the cancellation of the registration.

Step 3: File the Alaska Amendment

Once everything is arranged and checked, you can file the Amendment. You must amend Alaska LLC Articles of Organization for LLC or amend Alaska Articles of Incorporation for the corporation. Remember, you must attach the name reservation form with the Amendment forms. You can file it online or by mail, whichever is available.

What Will Happen If I Change My Business Name in Alaska

You can change the name of your business in Alaska. You must file the Amendment for changing your name to the Alaska Secretary of State. The process of filing the amendment is the same for an LLC and a corporation. However, the forms are different. The forms are available on the official website of Alaska Secretary of State.

It is recommended to check if the name change is absolutely necessary. Because it can affect the whole business. In some cases, it is better to start a new Business than change the name of an existing one.
– LLCBuddy Editorial Team

Things to do After Filing the Alaska Amendment

As soon as you are done with the filing process, you must update the new business name in other areas as well. Following are some points to consider after you change your business name in Alaska-

Legal documents: Alaska statement of information, loan documents, active legal contracts, or any other legal documents must be amended with the changed name.
Informing stakeholders: Ensure that you communicate the name change effectively to all your stakeholders, including employees, customers, suppliers, and partners in Alaska.
City/local registration: Some cities/local authorities in Alaska might need business registration. If your city has the same rule, then you must register your new business name with the city by submitting appropriate documents.
Business License: The business licenses you obtained previously to run a business in Alaska have the current name of your business. Hence, you must update your new name with the proper department to obtain appropriate business licenses and permits.
Bank Accounts: It is obvious that all your business accounts in Alaska have a current business name. Once you change the name, file the amendment, and pay the fees, you must update the bank accounts to avoid any inconvenience.
Internal Revenue Service (IRS): It is essential to update the IRS once you change your business name in Alabama. Neglecting to notify the IRS and other relevant entities may lead to confusion and disorganization within your business operations. It is absolutely necessary to amend with the IRS once you change the current business name in Alaska. Failing to amend with the IRS or any other places results in confusion and disorganization of the business.
Others: If you have employees, you must inform the employment development authority of the name change. Additionally, it is important to update various business permits and other legal documents as needed.
Website: Finally, if you have a domain, update the name there to avoid confusion. Signage, visiting cards, merchandise, and any other places where your business name is mentioned should be updated. Changing the domain name will not be a good idea as it can affect your SEO results.

FAQs

What are the requirements for changing a business name in Alaska?

In Alaska, you must file a Certificate of Amendment with the Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing to change the name of an existing business. You must also make sure your new business name is not already in use and is not similar to any existing business names.

How much does it cost to change a business name in Alaska?

The cost to change the name of a business in Alaska is $25.

How long does it take to change a business name in Alaska?

It typically takes up to five business days to process a name change in Alaska.

What information do I need to provide when changing a business name in Alaska?

When changing a business name in Alaska, you need to provide your business’s original name and the new name, in addition to your business’s Alaska business license number, date of formation and the address of the business.

Who is able to file a business name change in Alaska?

In Alaska, the registered agent or any other authorized representative of the business can file a name change.

What is the filing process for changing a business name in Alaska?

To change a business name in Alaska, you must file a Certificate of Amendment with the Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing. You must also check to make sure your new business name is not already in use and is not similar to an existing business name.

Is there a time limit for changing a business name in Alaska?

The Certificate of Amendment must be filed within 90 days of the date of formation.

What is the penalty for not changing a business name in Alaska?

If you do not file the Certificate of Amendment within 90 days of the date of formation, you may be subject to a fine of up to $500.

Can I reserve a business name in Alaska?

Yes, you can reserve a business name in Alaska for up to 120 days by filing a Name Reservation Request with the Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing.

How do I check if my desired business name is available in Alaska?

You can check the availability of a business name in Alaska by using the Business Entity Search tool on the Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing website.

What happens if I change the business name in Alaska but don’t update the website or stationary?

If you change your business name in Alaska but don’t update your website or stationary, you may be subject to a fine of up to $500.

What are the fees for changing a business address in Alaska?

The fee to change a business address in Alaska is $25.

How do I file a business address change in Alaska?

To change the business address in Alaska, you must file a Certificate of Amendment with the Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing.

How do I close a business in Alaska?

To close a business in Alaska, you must file a Certificate of Dissolution with the Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing.

What is the fee for closing a business in Alaska?

The fee for closing a business in Alaska is $25.

Does Alaska require any additional documents when closing a business?

Yes, you must provide a statement from the Alaska Department of Revenue indicating that the taxes have been paid and that the business is in good standing.

Can I change the name of a business while closing it in Alaska?

Yes, you can change the name of a business while closing it in Alaska by filing a Certificate of Dissolution with the Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing.

Is there a time limit for closing a business in Alaska?

The Certificate of Dissolution must be filed within 90 days of the date of formation.

What happens if I fail to file a Certificate of Dissolution in Alaska?

If you fail to file a Certificate of Dissolution in Alaska, you may be subject to a fine of up to $500.

What is the process for filing a DBA in Alaska?

To file a DBA in Alaska, you must file an Application for Authority to Transact Business with the Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing.

How much does it cost to file a DBA in Alaska?

The cost to file a DBA in Alaska is $25.

How do I check the availability of a DBA in Alaska?

You can check the availability of a DBA in Alaska by using the Business Entity Search tool on the Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing website.

What do I need to provide when filing a DBA in Alaska?

When filing a DBA in Alaska, you need to provide your business’s name, the name of the person responsible for the business, and the address of the business.

Is there a time limit for filing a DBA in Alaska?

The Application for Authority to Transact Business must be filed within 90 days of the date of formation.

What happens if I fail to file an Application for Authority to Transact Business in Alaska?

If you fail to file an Application for Authority to Transact Business in Alaska, you may be subject to a fine of up to $500.

What is the process for filing a trademark in Alaska?

To file a trademark in Alaska, you must file an Application for a Trademark with the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

How much does it cost to file a trademark in Alaska?

The cost to file a trademark in Alaska is $275.

Is there a time limit for filing a trademark in Alaska?

The Application for a Trademark must be filed within 6 months of the date of formation.

What happens if I fail to file an Application for a Trademark in Alaska?

If you fail to file an Application for a Trademark in Alaska, you may be subject to a fine of up to $2,000.

What are the procedures for changing a business name in Alaska?

In order to change a business name in Alaska, you must file an amendment to your Articles of Incorporation with the Alaska Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing. This must include the new business name, the purpose for the change, and the signatures of the business’s officers or directors.

Is there a fee to change a business name in Alaska?

Yes, there is a filing fee of $50 to change a business name in Alaska.

Are there any other requirements for changing a business name in Alaska?

Yes, you may also need to file a fictitious name statement with the Alaska Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development. Additionally, you may need to update your business records with the IRS and other government agencies.

Why Alaska Change Business Name is So Important

For Alaska Airlines, the decision to change its name from Alaska Airlines Corporation to Alaska Airlines Group reflects a broader shift in the company’s business strategy and vision for the future. Changing the name may seem like a small, superficial change, but it sends a powerful message to customers, partners, investors, and employees about the company’s commitment to evolving and staying relevant in an ever-changing marketplace.

A name change can help a company shed its old image and signal that it is ready to embrace new opportunities, adapt to new challenges, and innovate in response to changing consumer preferences and market dynamics. It can also help a company differentiate itself from competitors and carve out a unique position in the marketplace.

In the case of Alaska Airlines, the name change may also reflect the company’s expanded scope of operations and interests. By rebranding as Alaska Airlines Group, the company is signaling that it sees itself as more than just an airline – it is positioning itself as a diversified business entity with a range of interests and activities beyond air travel. This broader, more inclusive branding approach can help the company attract new business partners, investors, and customers who may have previously overlooked or misunderstood the full extent of its capabilities and ambitions.

Moreover, a name change can be a way for a company to reassert its core values, mission, and commitment to serving its customers and communities. In the case of Alaska Airlines, the decision to change its name may be seen as a reaffirmation of its deep roots in the region, its strong connection to Alaskan culture and heritage, and its ongoing dedication to serving the needs of customers in the Pacific Northwest and beyond. By updating its name to reflect these values and beliefs, the company is reinforcing its reputation as a trusted, reliable, and customer-focused airline.

Finally, a name change can help a company position itself for long-term success and growth. In today’s fast-paced, hyper-competitive business environment, companies must constantly evolve, adapt, and innovate to stay relevant and thrive. By changing its name, Alaska Airlines is signaling to the market that it is committed to ongoing transformation, and that it is willing to make bold, strategic moves to secure its future as a leader in the airline industry.

Ultimately, the decision to change a business name is not just a superficial or symbolic gesture – it is a strategic move that can have far-reaching implications for a company’s future success, sustainability, and viability in the marketplace. By changing its name, Alaska Airlines is demonstrating its commitment to evolution, growth, and innovation, and positioning itself for continued success in the years to come.

Conclusion

It is not desirable to change business names frequently. But if it is required, you must change it. Whether you are rebranding or restructuring your company, this guide walks you through the essential steps to change your business name in Alaska efficiently and effectively. The process of changing the name and filing the amendment form in Alaska is not so difficult. However, a list of details is needed to submit. Make sure they all are accurate and consistent with the previous filing documents.