Because Delaware is known for having the strongest corporate law structure, we get clients from all over the world looking to form a Delaware LLC. The first question we get is whether it is possible to form a Delaware LLC when not physically in Delaware.
The answer is yes. All you need is a Delaware Registered Agent. Keep in mind that your Delaware LLC is a domestic company in Delaware and a foreign company in every other state. When operating in Alaska, often business owners register as a foreign company doing business in Alaska.
This is the process in which Alaska gives you permission to operate there with a Delaware LLC. The Foreign Qualification process enables a company to transact business in a jurisdiction other than where it was formed.
Alaska, like most states, has a state fee and an application process. Generally clients will work with their registered agent to file the documents necessary to get the approval from the Alaska Secretary of State’s office. Harvard Business Services can obtain the approval for an Alaska foreign qualification in about 2 business days.
Alaska does not require a Certificate of Good Standing from Delaware in order to register there as a foreign entity. They do require that you have a registered agent address in Alaska. This must be an Alaska physical address where the state can send legal documents, notices, and service of process. If you would like to use Harvard Business Services as your agent in Alaska, the cost is $99 per year year.
One way that Alaska differs from other states during this process: Alaska will require to know the information of all members owning a 5% or more stake in the company including the percentage of ownership. They will also require a signature from an authorized person.
Once registered as a foreign entity in Alaska, an initial report is due within six months. There is no filing fee for this report. Alaska also has a biennial report that is due on Jan. 2 on either odd or even years depending on the year that the business was registered in Alaska. This report carries a fee of two hundred dollars.
If you have a Delaware LLC operating in Alaska, Harvard Business Services would be happy to assist with the Alaska foreign qualification. If you would like to order this service, or have questions answered about this process please call, email, Skype, or live chat during working hours.
*Disclaimer*: Harvard Business Services, Inc. is neither a law firm nor an accounting firm and, even in cases where the author is an attorney, or a tax professional, nothing in this article constitutes legal or tax advice. This article provides general commentary on, and analysis of, the subject addressed. We strongly advise that you consult an attorney or tax professional to receive legal or tax guidance tailored to your specific circumstances. Any action taken or not taken based on this article is at your own risk. If an article cites or provides a link to third-party sources or websites, Harvard Business Services, Inc. is not responsible for and makes no representations regarding such source’s content or accuracy. Opinions expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect those of Harvard Business Services, Inc.
There is 1 comment left for Doing Business in Alaska with a Delaware LLC
Joy Okoro said: Sunday, December 15, 2019You said all you need is a registered agent service, what about starting an LLC in Delaware? The only thing I need to do is get a Delaware registered agent??
HBS Staff replied: Monday, December 16, 2019We can assist you with starting your Delaware LLC as well. A Registered Agent would be required in Delaware as well as in any other states in which you plan to do business. We are happy to provide further detail if you would like to contact us by phone, email or live chat.