We’ve compiled the most common fees associated with forming an LLC in Wisconsin.
For a basic LLC, the cost to start a business in Wisconsin is reasonable.
$130
The nonrefundable LLC filing fee is $130
unless you file online, in which case it’s $170. We can help you get it fast with our rush service.
You may choose a business name on your Articles of Organization form. If you want to reserve a name before forming your LLC, you can file a Name Reservation Application separately for $15 (plus an extra $25 if you want to expedite it).
There is no fee to designate a registered agent or registered office or to change your registered agent. But if your registered agent resigns or you change your registered office, there is a $10 fee.
You may need to pay a few more fees depending on what kind of business you have. Be sure to pay attention to whether these are one-time fees or annual fees.
Wisconsin requires LLCs to file an annual report every year. The fee is $25.
If you already have an LLC in another state and want to expand your business to Wisconsin, you need to file a Foreign Limited Liability Company Application for Certificate of Registration. The filing fee is $100.
Foreign LLCs registered in Wisconsin also must file annual reports, but their fee is $80.
If an LLC wishes to use a name other than its official business name, it may register a fictitious name (also known as a trade name) with the Department of Financial Institutions. The registration costs $15 and lasts for 10 years.
If a foreign LLC’s name is already taken in Wisconsin, the foreign LLC must choose a new name. This is done by filing a name registration form for $50. An annual renewal fee of $50 is required to maintain the registration.
Depending on the type of business you form, Wisconsin may require you to obtain the following:
Wisconsin also may require you to register for unemployment insurance. If you aren’t sure which filing requirements apply to your business, we can run a Business License Report for you. The report will tell you which licenses your business needs to operate legally at the federal, state, county, and local levels.
For just $0, we can form your Wisconsin LLC for you in just minutes. No LegalZoom promo code required: Pay just $0 plus filing fees for fast LLC formation in Wisconsin.
If you fail to pay fees on time — particularly the annual report fee — you may have to pay late fees. Eventually, the Department of Financial Institutions will administratively dissolve your LLC. This may leave you without the liability protection you sought in forming an LLC instead of a sole proprietorship.
We know it’s hard to keep track of ongoing filing obligations when you’re busy running a new business. Our Worry-Free Compliance Service can remind you of these deadlines and put your mind at ease.
The Wisconsin government won’t file any document that isn’t submitted together with the appropriate fee.
The Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions.
The $130
(or $170 if paid by mail) for your Articles of Organization will be your largest fee.
Wisconsin accepts payments via cash, checks, Visa, MasterCard, and American Express.
Address: 4822 Madison Yards Way, North Tower Madison, WI 53705 | Office Hours: Monday – Friday 7:45 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. |
Telephone: (608) 261-9555 | Website: https://dfi.wi.gov/Pages/Home.aspx |
If it seems like starting an LLC requires a lot of steps, we can help. Our services and resources will guide you through the process and help you avoid expensive mistakes.
Disclaimer: The content on this page is for information purposes only, and does not constitute legal, tax, or accounting advice. If you have specific questions about any of these topics, seek the counsel of a licensed professional.
Written by Team ZenBusiness
ZenBusiness has helped people start, run, and grow over 700,000 dream companies. The editorial team at ZenBusiness has over 20 years of collective small business publishing experience and is composed of business formation experts who are dedicated to empowering and educating entrepreneurs about owning a company.
LLC Cost by State
Start an LLC in Your State
When it comes to compliance, costs, and other factors, these are popular states for forming an LLC.
Ready to Start Your LLC?
Create Your LLC in Wisconsin