Legal Bueno

    How to Start Your LLC in Wisconsin

    Legal Bueno helps with everything you need to start your business. We take care of all the paperwork so you don't have to worry about it. Want to learn more about the process we handle? Keep reading!

    Quick Summary:

    • Filing Fee: $130
    • Turnaround time: immediately

    How do I start an LLC in Wisconsin?

    Thinking about starting an LLC? The process is pretty similar across the states. You'll start by picking a unique name for your business (you'll need to check to make sure it hasn't been taken!) and then filing some paperwork—usually called Articles of Organization or a Certificate of Formation—with your state's agency.

    If you want to check the name availability for Wisconsin, visit https://apps.dfi.wi.gov/apps/CorpSearch/Search.aspx.

    After that's taken care of, you'll want to draft a governing doc for your business called an operating agreement & find any licenses you might need. Just keep in mind that each state has its own little quirks, so it's always a good idea to double-check specific requirements for your area.

    What are the costs & processing times of starting a business in Wisconsin?

    Here's the rundown for Wisconsin:

    • The filing fee is: $130
    • There are ongoing fees of $25 (every year)
    • It usually takes immediately if you're filing online or 5 business days (plus mail time) if by mail.

    Why Wisconsin is a great state for your LLC

    Starting a company in Wisconsin offers several compelling advantages that can significantly benefit entrepreneurs. Here are some key reasons to consider:

    • Business Incentives: Wisconsin provides various business development tax incentives and community rehabilitation program credits, facilitating a smoother startup process. These programs are designed to reduce costs and promote business growth.
    • Simplified Business Structure: Establishing a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Wisconsin is often the quickest and easiest option for entrepreneurs. An LLC structure combines the benefits of limited liability protection with simplified regulatory requirements.
    • Personal Asset Protection: By forming an LLC, your personal assets are safeguarded from business liabilities and debts. This protection is crucial for entrepreneurs looking to mitigate risk.
    • Tax Advantages: LLCs in Wisconsin offer easier tax filing processes, which can lead to potential tax benefits. This streamlined approach can save time and money, allowing business owners to focus on growth.
    • Affordability and Efficiency: The cost to file for an LLC in Wisconsin is $130, making it a budget-friendly option for startups. The overall process of filing, management, compliance, and administration is straightforward and efficient.
    • Supportive Business Environment: Wisconsin is known for its business-friendly community, which includes access to resources, networks, and support systems tailored for small- to medium-sized businesses.

    Overall, Wisconsin provides a supportive and advantageous environment for launching a new business, making it an attractive choice for entrepreneurs.

    Legal Requirements

    Remember! Legal Bueno will handle all of these requirements for you, but if you're interested, here are the legal requirements for Wisconsin:

    Articles of Organization

    The articles of organization shall contain all of the following information:1. A statement that the limited liability company is organized under this chapter.

    1. A name for the LLC which must comply withWis. Stat. § 183.0112
    2. The street and mailing addresses of the company's principal office.
    3. The name and street and mailing and e-mail addresses of the initial registered agent of the LLC.
    4. The name and address of each person organizing the LLC; and
    5. If applicable, the delayed effective date and time of the articles of organization.

    Wis. Stat. § 183.0201

    Filing fee on paper: $170

    Filing fee online: $130

    Wis. Stat. § 183.0122

    Filing Process

    After you've prepared the initial formation documents, you need to file it! Here is what Wisconsin laws require for filing:

    To be filed by the department, a record must be received by the department, comply with this chapter, and satisfy all of the following:1. The filing of the record must be required or permitted by this chapter;

    1. The record must be physically delivered in written form unless and to the extent the department permits electronic delivery of records;
    2. The words in the record must be in English, and numbers must be in Arabic or Roman numerals, but the name of an entity need not be in English if written in English letters or Arabic or Roman numerals;
    3. The record must be signed by a person authorized or required under this chapter to sign the record;
    4. The record must state the name and capacity, if any, of each individual who signed it, either on behalf of the individual or the person authorized or required to sign the record, but need not contain a seal, attestation, acknowledgment, or verification;
    5. The record must contain the name of the drafter, if required by s. 182.01(3).

    Wis. Stat. § 183.0206

    Additional Legal Considerations

    Here are some additional relevant laws that might be useful when operating your business in Wisconsin:

    Annual report

    Wis. Stat. § 183.0212

    Confirmation of status

    Wis. Stat. § 183.0211