How to start an LLC in Wisconsin: Your 2025 step-by-step guide

Thinking about launching a business in Wisconsin? With a strong workforce, growing sectors like manufacturing and tech, and a reputation for supporting small businesses, the Badger State is full of opportunity. Choosing the right legal structure is one of the first and most important steps in starting your venture.

From sole proprietorships and partnerships to corporations and LLCs, each structure option shapes how your small business runs, how you're taxed, and what kind of personal liability you take on. For many Wisconsin entrepreneurs, forming an LLC balances flexibility, protection, and simplicity.

Jump to:

• Why choose an LLC in Wisconsin?
• New business data in Wisconsin in 2025
• 5 steps for creating an LLC in Wisconsin
• Step 1: Choose a name for your Wisconsin LLC
• Step 2: Choose a registered agent in Wisconsin
• Step 3: Complete the Articles of Organization form and file your Wisconsin LLC
• If you are not a Wisconsin resident
• Step 4: Get an Employer Identification Number (EIN)
• Step 5: Ongoing compliance and required filings
• Types of LLCs to consider in Wisconsin
• Costs of setting up an LLC in Wisconsin
• Open a business bank account for your Wisconsin LLC
• LLC Taxes in Wisconsin
• Frequently asked questions

Why choose an LLC in Wisconsin?

A limited liability company, more often referred to as an LLC, is a structure used to protect business owners when creating a new corporate entity. It offers benefits such as:

• Added financial flexibility in distributing profits and managing investments
• Pass-through taxation on business profits
• Limits on owner financial liability for debts and obligations incurred by the company

Whether you're starting a coffee shop in Madison or a landscaping business in Green Bay, forming an LLC is a smart way to protect yourself legally while keeping things flexible. This guide breaks down how to start an LLC in Wisconsin—from state filing steps and fees to managing taxes and staying organized with tools like accounting software. It's everything you need to set up your business with confidence.

New business data in Wisconsin in 2025

Wisconsin’s business climate is thriving in 2025, with record-breaking investments and strong support for economic growth. In fiscal year 2024, companies partnering with the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) invested $2.4 billion—up from $1.8 billion in 2019—creating nearly 5,000 jobs. Recently, Eli Lilly announced a $3 billion expansion in Kenosha County, which is expected to add 750 jobs. Sectors like education, health services, and hospitality are expanding, while manufacturing faces some headwinds primarily due to finding qualified workforce talent.

Wisconsin is also boosting innovation and small business growth through initiatives like the $50 million Wisconsin Investment Fund and the $2 million Small Business Development Grant Program. Tax incentives such as the Business Development Tax Credit Program and Enterprise Zone credits continue to attract new ventures and support entrepreneurs statewide.

Together, these developments show Wisconsin’s strong commitment to building a diverse, forward-looking economy that supports both established industries and new business ventures.

5 steps for creating an LLC in Wisconsin

Once you’ve decided on an LLC structure, there are a few key steps to follow—like choosing a unique name, filing your business formation documents, and applying for an EIN. The sections below walk you through each step to help you set up your Wisconsin LLC correctly.

Step 1: Choose a name for your Wisconsin LLC

Choosing a business name is the first official step in forming your Wisconsin LLC. Your name will represent your brand and must meet the state’s legal requirements.

Wisconsin LLC naming rules

When naming your LLC, you’ll need to follow the guidelines set by the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI):

• Uniqueness requirement
• Your LLC name must be distinguishable from existing business names registered in Wisconsin. You can check name availability using the DFI Corporate Records Search
• Required words
• Your LLC name must include one of the following:
• “Limited Liability Company”
• “Limited Company”
• “LLC” or “L.L.C.”
• “LC” or “L.C.”
• You can also use abbreviations: “Limited” can be shortened to “Ltd.” “Company” can be shortened to “Co.”
• Variations in capitalization or punctuation are allowed (e.g., “llc” or “L.L.C.”)
• Restricted words
• You can’t use words that suggest you're organized for a purpose that’s regulated under another Wisconsin law unless you're actually authorized under that law. For example, “banking” or “insurance.”
• Accurate representation
• Your LLC name must not mislead people about your business purpose or status.

Check for name availability 

After selecting your business name, you must ensure that no other entity in Wisconsin is already using it. The Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions offers an online Corporate Records Search tool to help you verify name availability.

In Wisconsin, business names must be clearly distinguishable from existing ones. Conducting a name search ahead of time can help prevent delays or rejections during the filing process.

According to Wisconsin law, the following differences do not make names distinguishable:

• Suffixes: Differences in entity designations like "Inc." and "LLC" do not create distinguishability. For example, "ABC Solutions, Inc." and "ABC Solutions, LLC" are considered the same.
• Articles: The addition or omission of articles such as "the," "a," or "an" does not differentiate names.
• Conjunctions: Interchanging "and" with "&" is not sufficient to make a name unique.
• Singular, plural, or possessive Forms: Variations like "Builder" and "Builders" are viewed as identical.
• Punctuation or spacing: Differences in punctuation or spacing are not considered distinguishing factors.

When searching for name availability, focus on the core elements of your desired name, excluding these variations, to ensure it is truly unique and compliant with Wisconsin's naming regulations.

Reserve your LLC name

In Wisconsin, reserving your LLC name is optional but can be beneficial if you're not ready to file your Articles of Organization immediately. To reserve a business name for 120 days, submit a Name Reservation Application to the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) along with the required $15 filing fee. 

Step 2: Choose a registered agent in Wisconsin

Every Wisconsin LLC must designate a registered agent. This individual or entity is responsible for receiving legal documents, tax notices, and official correspondence on behalf of your LLC, ensuring compliance with state regulations by maintaining a reliable point of contact within Wisconsin.

Who can be a registered agent?

• You (if you're a Wisconsin resident): You can act as your own registered agent if you meet the following requirements:
• You are at least 18 years old.
• You have a physical street address in Wisconsin; P.O. Boxes are not acceptable.
• You are available to receive legal documents during standard business hours.
• Individual: A Wisconsin resident who is at least 18 years old, has a physical street address in the state, and is available during standard business hours to receive legal documents.
• Business entity: A company authorized to conduct business in Wisconsin that maintains a physical office within the state and is available during standard business hours.
• Registered agent service: If you prefer not to receive legal documents at your personal address, consider hiring a professional registered agent service. These companies provide a physical street address in Wisconsin for your LLC to receive documents.

Choosing a registered agent service

There are registered agent services throughout the state. If you’re thinking about hiring a professional provider, here are some tips for finding the right one.

Research and compare

Be sure to research different providers and compare factors such as:

• Cost: Fees typically start around $50 per year.
• Reputation: Choose a reputable company with a proven track record.
• Customer support: Ensure they provide excellent customer service and support.
• Knowledge. Select a provider with a strong understanding of Wisconsin-specific compliance requirements to ensure your business stays in good standing.
• Coverage. For businesses operating in multiple states, choose a provider that offers services across all the states where you plan to operate.

Consider bundled services

If you're using a company formation service or an attorney to set up your LLC, they may offer registered agent services as part of a package.

Step 3: File the Articles of Organization for your Wisconsin LLC

After securing a unique business name and appointing a registered agent, the next step in establishing your Wisconsin LLC is to file the Articles of Organization. This document officially registers your LLC with the state, granting it legal recognition.

What are the Articles of Organization?

The Articles of Organization is a legal document that outlines your LLC details. Submitting this form to the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) formalizes the creation of your LLC.

You have two options for filing your Articles of Organization:

Option 1: File online

Visit the DFI's online filing system to access the online filing portal. The online filing fee is $130.

You can also choose to register through the Wisconsin One Stop Business Registration Portal. This portal allows you to register for multiple state agencies simultaneously: The Department of Financial Institutions, the Department of Revenue, and the Department of Workforce Development.

Option 2: Mail-in filing

Download and complete Form 502 - Articles of Organization. Mail the completed form, along with the $170 paper filing fee (payable by check or money order), to:

 Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions

 Division of Corporate & Consumer Services

 P.O. Box 93348

 Milwaukee, WI 53293-0348

How long does it take for an LLC to get approved in Wisconsin?

Online filings are typically approved immediately upon submission. Mailed filings are typically processed within 5 business days of receipt.

What to Include in Your LLC's Articles of Organization Form

Completing the Articles of Organization for your Wisconsin LLC requires the following information:

• The name of your LLC
• Registered agent information including name, address, and email
• Principal office address
• Organizer information
• Drafter's name
• Signature and date
• Any additional provisions (optional) 

For detailed instructions and the form, refer to Form 502 - Articles of Organization.

If you are not a Wisconsin resident:

To operate a business in Wisconsin with an LLC formed in another state, you must register as a foreign LLC by filing a Foreign Limited Liability Company Registration Statement with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions. Follow these steps: 

• Ensure your business name meets Wisconsin's LLC naming rules. If it doesn’t, you’ll need to use a fictitious name for Wisconsin.
• Appoint a registered agent with a physical street address in Wisconsin (P.O. Boxes aren’t accepted).
• Fill out the Foreign Registration Statement Limited Liability Company (Form 521) and pay a $100 filing fee. You can file online through the Wisconsin One Stop Business Portal or by mail.

Step 4: Get an Employer Identification Number (EIN)

You’ll likely need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service to form an LLC in Wisconsin. An EIN is a nine-digit number that identifies a business for tax purposes, similar to a Social Security Number for your company.

According to the IRS, you need an EIN if any of the following apply:

1. You have employees.
2. Your business operates as a corporation or partnership.
3. You file employment, excise, or alcohol, tobacco, and firearms tax returns.
4. You withhold taxes on income, other than wages, paid to a non-resident alien.
5. You have a Keogh plan (a tax-deferred pension plan).
6. You are involved with certain types of organizations, including trusts, estates, real estate mortgage investment conduits, non-profit organizations, farmers' cooperatives, or plan administrators.

Single-member LLC considerations

If you are a single-member LLC, you may not be required to obtain an EIN. However, getting one is still a smart idea, as your business needs might change over time, and obtaining an EIN is free.

An EIN becomes mandatory if your LLC elects to be taxed as a corporation, hires employees, or files excise or employment tax returns.

Having an EIN also simplifies opening a business bank account and protects your personal Social Security Number, reducing the risk of identity theft.

Requesting an EIN

You can request an EIN by mail or phone, but the fastest method is completing the process online on the IRS website. After obtaining an EIN, use accounting software to track business expenses and ensure your company’s finances remain separate from your personal finances. 

Step 5: Ongoing compliance and required filings for Wisconsin LLCs

Maintaining your LLC's good standing in Wisconsin involves adhering to several ongoing compliance obligations:

• Annual Report
• Filing requirement: All Wisconsin LLCs must file an Annual Report with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions.
• Purpose: To update the state on your LLC's current information and maintain its active status.
• Due date: The end of the quarter in which the LLC was formed. For example, if your LLC was formed in March, your report is due by June 30.
• Filing method: Reports can be filed online.
• Fee: The filing fee is $25 for online submissions.
• State tax obligations
• Registration: If your LLC will collect sales tax, have employees, or be subject to other state taxes, you must register with the Wisconsin Department of Revenue (DOR).
• How to Register: Registration can be completed online through the Wisconsin One Stop Business Portal or through the State of Wisconsin Department of Revenue
• Compliance: Timely registration and accurate tax filings ensure compliance with Wisconsin tax laws and help avoid potential penalties.
• Business licenses and permits
• Requirement: Depending on your LLC’s location and industry, certain licenses or permits may be necessary.
• Examples: Professional services, food establishments, and other regulated industries may have specific licensing requirements.
• Verification: Consult the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services, your local city or county offices, and your professional governing agency for guidance.
• Beneficial Ownership Information Report
• Filing requirement: Under the Corporate Transparency Act, most LLCs are required to submit a Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) Report to the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN).
• Purpose: This report identifies individuals who own or control the LLC, aiding in the prevention of financial crimes.
• Who needs to file: All LLCs formed on or after January 1, 2025, must file within 30 days of formation. LLCs formed before this date have until December 31, 2025, to comply.
• How to file: Reports are submitted online through the FinCEN reporting portal.
• Fees: There is no filing fee.
• Purchase insurance
• Requirement: Depending on your business activities, you may be required to obtain specific types of insurance.
• Examples:
• Workers’ compensation insurance, mandatory for businesses with three or more employees.
• Commercial auto insurance
• Liability Insurance
• Information: Consult with an insurance or legal expert to determine proper coverage for your LLC.
• Employer withholding tax registration
• Requirement: All employers in Wisconsin are required to withhold state income tax from employee wages.
• Registration: You must register for a Wisconsin Withholding Tax Account with the Wisconsin Department of Revenue. This can be done online through the Wisconsin One Stop Business Portal or the Department of Revenue.
• Filing frequency: After registration, you'll be assigned a filing frequency (e.g., monthly, quarterly) based on your anticipated payroll.
• Compliance: Timely registration, accurate withholding, and punctual filing ensure compliance with Wisconsin tax laws and help avoid potential penalties.

Types of LLCs to consider in Wisconsin

Understanding the various LLC structures available in Wisconsin is essential for selecting the one that best aligns with your business goals.

Single-member LLC

A single-member LLC is owned by one individual or entity and offers limited liability protection, safeguarding personal assets from business debts and liabilities. For tax purposes, it is typically treated as a disregarded entity, with profits and losses reported on the owner's personal federal tax return. 

Single-member LLCs must adhere to the same formation and reporting requirements as multi-member LLCs, including filing Articles of Organization with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions and submitting an Annual Report.

Multi-member LLC

A multi-member LLC is owned by two or more individuals or entities. By default, it’s treated as a partnership for federal tax purposes, unless the members elect to be taxed as a corporation. Members can decide how profits, losses, and responsibilities are divided by creating an Operating Agreement, though it's not required by state law.

Member-managed LLC

In a member-managed LLC, all members have the authority to make decisions and run the day-to-day operations of the business. This is the default management type in Wisconsin unless otherwise stated in your Articles of Organization. This structure is ideal for small businesses where owners want to be actively involved.

Manager-managed LLC

A manager-managed LLC designates one or more managers to handle the daily operations, allowing certain members to assume a passive role as investors. Managers can be members or external individuals appointed to oversee business activities. To establish a manager-managed LLC in Wisconsin, this structure must be clearly stated in the Articles of Organization or Operating Agreement.

Costs of setting up an LLC in Wisconsin

Starting an LLC in Wisconsin involves the following state-required fees and potential expenses:

• $130 one-time filing fee to submit your Articles of Organization. Mail filing requires a $170 fee.
• If you choose to use a commercial registered agent, expect to pay approximately $50 to $150 per year.
• $25 Annual Report fee. 

Additional costs may apply for business licenses or permits, depending on your LLC’s industry and local requirements.

Open a business bank account for your Wisconsin LLC

Once your Wisconsin LLC is officially formed, opening a dedicated business bank account is a smart next move. Keeping your business and personal finances separate helps protect your personal assets, maintains your LLC’s liability shield, and makes bookkeeping and taxes a whole lot easier. Plus, it gives your business a more professional appearance to clients and partners.

What you’ll need to bet started

Most banks in Wisconsin will ask for the following:

• Your Employer Identification Number (EIN)
• A copy of your Articles of Organization
• Your Operating Agreement (if you have one)
• A valid photo ID

If you're an out-of-state resident, look for a bank with branches in Wisconsin or options for online business banking.

Once your bank account is open, using tools like QuickBooks accounting software can help you stay organized, track income and expenses, and get ready for tax season.

LLC taxes in Wisconsin

Establishing a Wisconsin LLC requires understanding your tax obligations at both the federal and state levels. Your LLC's tax classification and business activities will determine the applicable taxes.

Federal tax classification

LLCs in Wisconsin adhere to federal tax classifications established by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS):

• Single-member LLCs: By default, these are treated as disregarded entities, meaning income and expenses are reported on the owner's personal federal tax return.
• Multi-member LLCs: These default to partnership taxation, necessitating the filing of Form 1065 with the IRS.
• Election as a corporation: LLCs can choose to be taxed as a C corporation or S corporation by filing the appropriate forms with the IRS.

State income tax

Wisconsin taxes income passed through from LLCs or earned directly by corporations:

Pass-through entities

LLCs taxed as sole proprietorships, partnerships, or S corporations pass profits to members' individual returns. As of 2025, Wisconsin's individual income tax rates range from 3.5% to 7.65%.

C Corporations

LLCs electing to be taxed as corporations are subject to Wisconsin's corporate income tax rate of 7.9%.

Sales and use tax

Wisconsin imposes a state sales and use tax, with potential additional county and local taxes:

• Requirement: LLCs must collect and remit state and applicable local sales taxes on retail sales of tangible personal property and certain services.
• Registration: Businesses must register for a seller's permit with the Wisconsin Department of Revenue.
• Rates: The state sales tax rate is 5%. Counties and certain municipalities may impose additional sales taxes. To determine the exact tax rate applicable to a specific location, use the Wisconsin Department of Revenue's Sales Tax Rate Lookup.

Employment taxes

If your LLC has employees, compliance with both state and federal employment tax requirements is necessary:

• Withholding Tax: Employers must withhold Wisconsin state income tax from employee wages and remit it to the Department of Revenue.
• Unemployment Insurance (UI) Tax: Employers are required to register with the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development and pay unemployment insurance taxes. UI rates range from 0.00% to 12.00% based on experience. The taxable wage base is $14,000.

For detailed information on employer obligations, refer to the Wisconsin Department of Revenue's Withholding Tax Guide.

Wisconsin-related resources

• Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI): The DFI oversees business entity filings, including LLC formation, and regulates financial services in Wisconsin. It’s the go-to agency for registering and maintaining your business structure.
• The Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services: This department manages licensing and regulation for a wide range of professional occupations and trades in Wisconsin. If your business involves a licensed profession, this is where you can find information. 
• Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development: The Department of Workforce Development administers employment-related programs, including unemployment insurance, worker’s compensation, and job training. Employers must register here for unemployment insurance and wage reporting.
• Wisconsin One Stop Business Portal: This online portal helps entrepreneurs start and manage a business in Wisconsin by combining state-level registration, licensing, and tax setup tools in one place.
• Wisconsin Small Business Development Center: The SBDC offers free or low-cost resources, training, and expert guidance to help small businesses in Wisconsin launch, grow, and succeed. 

Federal-related resources 

• Small Business Administration (SBA): The SBA supports small businesses through various loan programs, including the 7(a) loan, provides resources for government contracting, and offers counseling and training programs to help entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses.
• Internal Revenue Service (IRS): The IRS provides essential information for LLCs, including tax classifications, employer identification numbers (EINs), and filing requirements. Its Small Business and Self-Employed Tax Center offers guidance on tax obligations specific to LLCs.
• U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO): For businesses looking to protect their intellectual property, the USPTO provides resources on how to apply for patents and register trademarks, which can be essential for safeguarding your unique products or services.
• U.S. Department of Labor (DOL): The DOL's website offers information on federal labor laws, workplace safety regulations, and employee benefits that LLC owners need to consider when hiring staff.

Disclaimer: 

This content is for information purposes only and information provided should not be considered legal, accounting or tax advice or a substitute for obtaining such advice specific to your business. Additional information and exceptions may apply. Applicable laws may vary by state or locality. No assurance is given that the information is comprehensive in its coverage or that it is suitable in dealing with a customer’s particular situation. Intuit Inc. does not have any responsibility for updating or revising any information presented herein. Accordingly, the information provided should not be relied upon as a substitute for independent research. Intuit Inc. cannot warrant that the material contained herein will continue to be accurate, nor that it is completely free of errors when published. Readers should verify statements before relying on them.