Wisconsin LLC Formation: A Step-by-Step Guide

Forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Wisconsin can be a complex process, but with the right guidance, you can navigate the requirements and create a successful business entity. In this article, we will walk you through the steps to form an LLC in Wisconsin, including the necessary paperwork, fees, and ongoing compliance requirements.

The first step in forming an LLC in Wisconsin is to choose a unique name for your business. The name must be distinguishable from other business names on file with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI). You can check the availability of your desired name by searching the Wisconsin Business Entity Search database. Once you have selected a name, you can reserve it for 120 days by filing a Name Reservation Application with the DFI.

Next, you will need to appoint a registered agent for your LLC. A registered agent is an individual or business that agrees to receive official documents and notices on behalf of your LLC. The registered agent must have a physical address in Wisconsin and be available during normal business hours. You can appoint a friend or family member as your registered agent, or you can hire a professional registered agent service.

After selecting a name and appointing a registered agent, you will need to file the Articles of Organization with the Wisconsin DFI. The Articles of Organization is the primary document required to form an LLC in Wisconsin, and it must be filed with the DFI within 120 days of reserving your business name. The Articles of Organization must include the following information:

• Business name and address
• Registered agent name and address
• Business purpose
• Management structure (member-managed or manager-managed)
• Number of members

The Articles of Organization must be signed by at least one member of the LLC, and it must be filed with the DFI along with the required filing fee. The filing fee for the Articles of Organization is currently $130.

Once the Articles of Organization have been filed, you will need to obtain any necessary business licenses and permits. The types of licenses and permits required will depend on the nature of your business, but common examples include sales tax permits, employer identification numbers, and professional licenses. You can check with the Wisconsin Department of Revenue and the Wisconsin Department of Commerce to determine which licenses and permits are required for your business.

In addition to the initial filing requirements, LLCs in Wisconsin are required to file an annual report with the DFI. The annual report must be filed within 60 days of the anniversary date of the LLC's formation, and it must include updated information about the business, including the business name, address, and registered agent. The annual report filing fee is currently $25.

Finally, LLCs in Wisconsin are required to maintain a registered office in the state. The registered office must be a physical address in Wisconsin where official documents and notices can be delivered. You can use a commercial registered agent service or a virtual office to maintain a registered office in Wisconsin.

By following these steps and meeting the necessary requirements, you can form a successful LLC in Wisconsin and take advantage of the state's business-friendly environment. Remember to stay up-to-date on ongoing compliance requirements and to seek professional advice if you have any questions or concerns about the LLC formation process.

Wisconsin LLC Formation Requirements

Business Name: The name of your LLC must be unique and distinguishable from other business names on file with the Wisconsin DFI.

Registered Agent: You must appoint a registered agent who has a physical address in Wisconsin and is available during normal business hours.

Articles of Organization: You must file the Articles of Organization with the Wisconsin DFI within 120 days of reserving your business name.

Annual Report: You must file an annual report with the DFI within 60 days of the anniversary date of the LLC's formation.

Registered Office: You must maintain a registered office in Wisconsin where official documents and notices can be delivered.

Business Licenses and Permits: You may need to obtain business licenses and permits depending on the nature of your business.