Who is required to register with the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development Division of Employment and Training Services for Employment Security Tax?
Registration is mandatory for any individual or entity, such as a person, firm, corporation, or other types of organization, that has employed one or more persons for some portion of a day. This is a legal requirement aimed at ensuring all employers are duly registered for employment security tax purposes.
Can I register my business online for Employment Security Tax, and if so, how?
Yes, businesses can register online for Employment Security Tax. To do so, visit the official website at https://my.alaska.gov. You will need to create a myAlaska account if you don't already have one, or log in to your existing account. Navigate to the Services tab, then look for Services for Businesses and select Employment Security Tax. Under Employer Maintenance, you will find the option for New Registration.
Where can I find assistance or get in touch for help with the registration process?
For assistance, you can contact the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development in several ways. If you're in Juneau, call (907) 465-2757. There's also a toll-free number available for those outside Juneau, which is (888) 448-3527. Additionally, you can fax to (907) 465-2374, or email esd.tax@alaska.gov. For hearing-impaired individuals, Relay Alaska services are available at (800) 770-8973.
What type of information will I need to provide on the Alaska Employer Registration Form?
You'll need to provide various pieces of information, including your Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN), details about your business such as its legal name, DBA (Doing Business As) name if applicable, a mailing address, and phone number. Additionally, you'll specify the type of business entity, the anticipated number of employees, and the business's physical worksite address in Alaska. Information on the specific products or services your business will provide, as well as any excluded employment you wish to cover, must be included too.
What do I do if I'm not sure about the tax liability of hiring contract labor in Alaska?
If you are unsure or have questions regarding the tax liability associated with hiring contract labor for your business activities in Alaska, you should directly contact Employment Security Tax for guidance. They can provide specific information and assistance relevant to your situation.
How do I indicate if my business is acquiring employees from a previous business occupant at my current location?
On the Alaska Employer Registration Form, you will find a section dedicated to acquisitions and changes in your business. If you are acquiring employees from a business that previously occupied your location, you can indicate this by checking the appropriate box and providing details about the previous business and the number of employees acquired.
What are the options for payment methods for Employment Security Tax and how do I select one?
All employers have the default option to file under the taxable method of reporting and paying contributions at an assigned rate. However, nonprofit organizations exempt under IRC 501(a) and 501(c)(3) may choose the reimbursable method, agreeing to reimburse the State of Alaska for the benefits paid to former employees. You can select your preferred method on the registration form by marking the appropriate box.
What is included in the Ownership and Responsible Party Information section?
This section requires detailed information about the business's principals. For a sole proprietor, this includes their name, residence address, and Social Security Number. Partnerships, corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), nonprofits, and other entities must provide similar information for each partner, corporate officer, manager, member, or principal involved, along with their percentage of ownership and their role in the company's operations and financial responsibilities.
Is it necessary to update my registration information, and if so, how do I do it?
Yes, it is important to keep your registration information up to date. To update your information, you should check the 'update' box at the top left of the form and complete the necessary sections that have changed or as instructed. This ensures that your business’s records with the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development are current and accurate.
What should I do if I need to authorize a third party to discuss my account with the Alaska Employment Security Tax?
If you need to authorize a third party to discuss your account, you must submit an Alaska Power of Attorney form. The form is available on the labor.alaska.gov/estax website under Forms/Publications. Completing this form allows the designated party to communicate with Employment Security Tax on behalf of your business.