How long does it take to register a business in Alabama?

Processing times vary: 5-7 business days. Online filings are typically faster than mail submissions. Expedited processing may be available for an additional fee.

Do I need a business license in Alabama?

Yes, most cities in Alabama require a general business license. Requirements vary by location and industry. Contact your local city or county clerk's office for specific requirements.

Can I use my personal name as my business name?

Yes, you can use your personal name as your business name. For an LLC, you'll need to add "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company" to the end. However, using a unique business name often provides better branding opportunities and legal protection.

What if my desired business name is already taken?

If your preferred name is unavailable, you have several options: 1) Choose a different name, 2) Add descriptive words to make it unique, 3) Use a different LLC suffix (LLC, L.L.C., etc.), or 4) Consider filing a "Doing Business As" (DBA) name while keeping a different legal name.

How much does it cost to start a business in Alabama?

The LLC filing fee is $200. Annual fees are $100. Additional costs include business licenses ($50-500), registered agent fees ($50-300/year if using a service), and other startup expenses. Total first-year costs typically range from $400.

Do I need a trademark for my business name?

While not required, trademark registration provides nationwide protection for your business name. Registering your LLC with the state only protects your name within Alabama. If you plan to expand beyond the state or want stronger legal protection, consider applying for a federal trademark with the USPTO.

Can I change my business name later?

Yes, you can change your LLC name by filing an amendment with the Alabama Secretary of State. This typically costs $20-100 and takes a few weeks to process. However, changing your name can be expensive when you consider updating all your marketing materials, domain, signage, and legal documents.

Alabama Business Name Generator

Generate unique business names for your Alabama LLC or startup. Get AI-powered suggestions tailored to Alabama businesses and local market.

Generate Business Names for Alabama

Describe your business idea

Choose naming style

Professional & corporate

Why Start a Business in Alabama?

$200

Filing Fee

5-7

Processing (days)

400K

Total Businesses

45K/yr

New Businesses

Growing aerospace hub in Huntsville

Low cost of living

Automotive manufacturing presence

Business-friendly regulations

Starting a Business in Alabama

Top Cities for Business

Birmingham200,733
Montgomery200,603
Huntsville215,006
Mobile187,041
Tuscaloosa99,600

Popular Industries

Automotive
Aerospace
Manufacturing
Agriculture
Healthcare

Cost to Start a Business in Alabama

LLC Filing Fee$200

Annual Report Fee$100/year

Name Reservation (optional)$25 for 120 days

Business License (varies by city)$50-500

Estimated Total First Year$400

Processing time: 5-7 business days

Alabama Tax Overview

Alabama has income tax rates from 2-5%. Corporate tax is 6.5%. Sales tax is 4% state plus local.

Alabama Business Name Requirements

Must include "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company"
Must be distinguishable

Restricted Words: The following words cannot be used without special approval:

Bank, Trust, Insurance

Business Name Ideas for Alabama

Explore 30 pre-generated business name ideas across popular industries. Use these as inspiration or starting points for your own unique name.

restaurant

Heart of Dixie Table
Alabama Cuisine
Birmingham Kitchen
Southern Dining
Yellowhammer Eats
Local Flavors

barbershop

Birmingham Cuts
Premium Grooming
Dixie Barbers
Classic Style
Alabama Shave
Expert Service

construction

Alabama Builders
Quality Construction
Dixie Build
Building AL
Birmingham Construction
Trusted Partners

consulting

Birmingham Strategy
Business Growth
Dixie Advisors
Strategic Solutions
Alabama Consulting
Expert Guidance

retail

Alabama Mercantile
Local Goods
Dixie Market
Quality Products
Birmingham Supply
Premium Retail

Home Services

Alabama Home Care
Complete Solutions
Dixie Services
Professional Care
Birmingham Home Pros
Expert Maintenance

technology

Huntsville Tech
Innovation
Dixie Digital
Tech Solutions
Alabama Software
Custom Development

healthcare

Alabama Wellness
Quality Healthcare
Dixie Medical
Patient Care
Birmingham Health
Trusted Providers

Real Estate

Alabama Properties
Dream Homes
Dixie Realty
Expert Service
Birmingham Living
Premium Properties

fitness

Birmingham Fitness
Peak Performance
Dixie Strong
Community Fitness
Alabama Athletics
Elite Training

Official Alabama Business Resources

Alabama Secretary of State

Business registration

Alabama Department of Revenue

Tax information

Alabama SBDC

Business counseling

How to Register a Business in Alabama

Annual Compliance Requirements

After forming your Alabama LLC, you'll need to maintain compliance with these ongoing requirements:

File Annual Report (varies by county)
Maintain registered agent
Pay Business Privilege Tax
Obtain local licenses

Check Domain Availability

Enter your business name to search for available domains

Business name

Opens GoDaddy search in a new tab

Frequently Asked Questions

Useful Tools for Alabama Business Owners

Self-Employment Tax

Calculate SE tax liability

Profit Margin Calculator

Calculate your profit margins

S-Corp Salary

Optimize salary vs distribution

Generate Names for Nearby States

Ready to Launch Your Alabama Business?

Jupid AI Accountant handles everything from LLC formation to ongoing tax compliance. Focus on growing your business while we handle the paperwork.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or financial advice. Information is accurate as of 2026-01. Always verify current requirements with the Alabama Secretary of State and consult with qualified professionals before making business decisions.