In 2023, the state of Alaska had a real gross domestic product (GDP) of $54.1 billion, which was a 6.5% increase from 2022. For many, these numbers may be shocking, as Alaska isn’t usually on anyone’s radar. Yet there’s this vast amount of potential that’s hardly noticed, so you need to seize the opportunity before it’s too late.
The key to a successful business is making a lasting impression, and to do that, you’ll need a striking company name. Not only that, but it shouldn’t already be in use too.
You can do an Alaska business entity search to ensure you’re in the clear. Here are three avenues you can explore.
Alaska Secretary of State Business Entity Search
Typically, the Secretary of State is responsible for processing and handling business formations. That makes it reasonable to start with the Alaska Secretary of State, as they’ll have an extensive and up-to-date record.
On their website, you’ll find a page to search the corporations database. It’s very easy to use, as there are only two blank spots to fill out (plus, it’s free to use). The first is for entity numbers, and the second is for entity names.
To determine whether your desired business name is free, type it into the second blank. You can select either “Starts with” or “Contains” on the right side of this search bar. Then click on “Search” below it.
If there are any hits, you’ll see them on the next page. The information listed will be:
- Entity type
- Entity number
- Entity name
- Name type
- Status
Want to learn more about a company during this Alaska business search? Then click on its entity number.
You’ll then see a popup with the following information:
- Type
- Name
- Entity type
- Entity number
- Status
- AK formed date
- Duration/expiration
- Home state
- Entity mailing address
- Entity physical address
In addition, there’s a spot for the officials. The listed information for them is as follows:
- AK entity number
- Name
- Titles
- Owned
Lastly, you’ll see the filed documents at the bottom. You can click to view the filings and certificates if you wish.
Search Engines
Search engines are also great if you want to do an AK business entity search. Simply bring up one that you like, and you can type your potential company name into the search bar. Add “Alaska” and any city names if you feel like they’d be relevant.
Make sure you scroll down and check several pages. What you’re looking for is not only identical names, but closely similar ones as well. Even names that sound alike can lead to legal troubles in the future.
Take a close look at the domain names too. If you notice that the one you want is available, it’s a good opportunity to reserve it.
The same goes for social media handles. By gathering up everything when you can, you’ll have an easier time having the same branding across various channels.
Our Search Tool
We offer a free business registration service that makes setting up your company easy and affordable. You only have to pay the state fees, plus whatever services you’d like to pick from our comprehensive list. There are no hidden fees, which means that what you see is what you’ll pay.
Plus, we have a tool you can use for your business search in AK. At the very top of the page, you’ll see a search bar. You can type in your desired company name, and then select the entity type from the dropdown menu (LLC, PLLC, or corporation).
After clicking on “Search,” you’ll see a results page where we’ll tell you if the name’s available. If it’s not, feel free to go back and use our search tool as many times as you’d like.
Otherwise, stay on the page to fill out your contact details if you’d like to use our services. There’s no obligation to do this though, so you can end your search here if you’d like. But if you send in your information, we’ll be in touch with you soon.
Try an Alaska Business Entity Search
Doing a comprehensive Alaska business entity search is the right thing to do if you want to start a business in this state. It’ll show you what names are already taken so you know what to avoid.
Don’t be tempted to skip this step, though. Existing business owners can take legal action if they feel that you’ve ripped off their names, so it’s better to take your time with a state of Alaska business entity search before you formally register your company.
Sign up with Business Anywhere to use our free business registration service. Our platform is intuitive and easy to use.