NOT LEGAL OR FINANCIAL ADVICE
This content is for educational purposes only. Laws change frequently and vary by circumstance. Always consult a licensed attorney in your state before taking any legal action. We are not responsible for any decisions or actions taken based on this information.
Alaska Freelance Invoice Laws
General information about collecting unpaid invoices in Alaska
Last Updated: 2025-01-01 • Always verify with a Alaska attorney
Late Fee Limit
No statutory limit for B2B contracts
Interest Rate
10.5% per annum (statutory)
Small Claims Limit
$10,000
Statute of Limitations
3 years for written contracts, 3 years for oral
Additional Context
Late Fees: Late fees must be reasonable and specified in the contract. Alaska courts enforce agreed-upon commercial provisions.
Interest: Rate is based on Federal Reserve discount rate + 2%. Parties can agree to different rates in writing.
Small Claims: Small claims court handles disputes. Filing fees are $50-$100. Informal process.
General Best Practices
These are general suggestions, not legal advice. Consult an attorney for your specific situation.
- ✓ Act quickly—Alaska has only a 3-year statute of limitations
- ✓ Take advantage of Alaska's higher interest rate (~10.5%)
- ✓ Use written contracts with clear payment terms
- ✓ Send invoices immediately upon project completion
- ✓ Document all scope changes and approvals
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ✗ Waiting too long—3 years passes quickly
- ✗ Not specifying interest rates in contracts
- ✗ Not knowing the $10,000 small claims limit
- ✗ Filing in wrong district court
- ✗ Skipping demand letters
When to Consult an Attorney
For invoices over $10,000 or if the 3-year deadline is approaching.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the small claims limit in Alaska?
Alaska small claims courts handle disputes up to $10,000. Filing fees are $50-$100. The process is informal.
How long do I have to sue for an unpaid invoice in Alaska?
Only 3 years for both written and oral contracts—one of the shorter periods. Don't delay pursuing collection.
What interest rate can I charge on overdue invoices in Alaska?
Alaska uses the Federal Reserve discount rate + 2% (currently around 10.5%). Specify this or other rates in your contract.
Where do I file a small claims case in Alaska?
File in the small claims court for the district where the defendant resides or does business. Anchorage has the largest court.
Do I need a collection license in Alaska?
No state license is required to collect your own debts. Third-party agencies should comply with federal FDCPA requirements.
Sources & References
These are reference sources only. Laws change—verify current statutes before taking action.
- Alaska Statutes § 45.45.010 (Interest)
- AS § 22.15.040 (Small Claims)
- AS § 09.10.053 (Statute of Limitations)
- Alaska Court System
IMPORTANT LEGAL DISCLAIMER
This is NOT legal or financial advice. The information on this page is provided for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to be, and should not be construed as, legal, financial, or professional advice.
Laws change frequently. State laws, court rules, and regulations are subject to change without notice. The information presented here may not reflect the most current legal developments or may not apply to your specific situation.
Consult a licensed professional. Before taking any action based on the information on this website, you should consult with a licensed attorney in Alaska who can provide advice tailored to your specific circumstances.
No attorney-client relationship. Viewing this information does not create an attorney-client relationship between you and Happy Freelance Life or its creators.
No liability. Happy Freelance Life and its creators disclaim all liability for any actions taken or not taken based on any information on this website. You assume full responsibility for any decisions or actions you take based on this content.
If you need legal help, please contact the Alaska State Bar Association for attorney referrals or a legal aid organization in your area.
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Take the QuizThis information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed Alaska attorney for specific legal guidance. This page was last updated on 2025-01-01. For current legal information, consult the official Alaska state statutes or a licensed Alaska attorney. Happy Freelance Life is not a law firm and does not provide legal services.