How Much Does an LLC Cost in Wisconsin? (2024 Filing Fees)

How much does starting a limited liability company (LLC) in Wisconsin cost?

Well, the initial filing fee to form your Wisconsin LLC is $130 if you file online. You must also pay a $25 annual report fee to keep your LLC in good standing with the state.

But that’s now all!

Beyond the initial fees, you’ll want to budget for things like hiring a registered agent, securing the perfect LLC name, and possibly obtaining business licenses or permits. Don’t forget taxes and compliance fees, which can also affect your budget.

Let’s get into the rest of the deets.

How Much Does an LLC Cost in Wisconsin?

Starting an LLC in Wisconsin involves several costs. Here’s a breakdown of the essential fees:

• Filing Articles of Organization: $130 when submitted online; $170 if you file by mail.
• Annual Report Fee: $25 due each year to keep your LLC in good standing.
• Registered Agent Services: Prices can range from $100 to $300 per year, depending on the service.
• LLC Name Reservation: There is an optional fee of $15 to reserve your LLC name before filing.
• Certificate of Status: Approximately $10 if requested from the state.
• Doing Business As (DBA): You can use a trade name instead of your LLC’s legal name when conducting business if you register the trade name and pay a $15 fee.
• Business Licenses and Permits: Fees depend on the type of business. Some licenses may be free, while others can cost hundreds of dollars.
• Taxes: LLCs are subject to state and federal taxes. Consult a tax professional for details.

LLC Costs in Wisconsin (Formation Fees)

Here’s a table summarizing the costs associated with various requirements for forming an LLC in Wisconsin:

Wisconsin LLC Requirements	Cost
LLC Business Name Search	$0
Articles of Organization	$130
Operating Agreement (optional)	$0 (with Northwest)
EIN Number	$0 (free from IRS)
Annual Report	$25/annually
LLC Name Reservation Fee (optional)	$15
Wisconsin Certificate of Status (optional)	$10
Foreign LLC Registration (optional)	$100
Fictitious Name (DBA) (optional)	$15
Taxes	Varies
Wisconsin State Business License Fee	Varies by business type
Registered Agent Services (optional)	$0-$125 (Northwest)
LLC Formation Services (optional)	$39
Total LLC Costs in Wisconsin	$155 – $459

Total LLC costs in Wisconsin range from $155 to $459. If you do everything yourself and skip the optional extras, you might only spend around $155. However, if you decide to pay for additional services and requirements, your costs could go up to between $300 and $459.

The first mandatory expense is the $130 fee for filing the Articles of Organization, which is essential for officially establishing your LLC. Additionally, you will need to budget for the annual report, which costs $25 each year.

Now, let’s discuss the optional costs.

Conducting an LLC business name search comes at no cost, and obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) is also free from the IRS. An Operating Agreement is recommended but can be obtained at no cost using services like Northwest.

You may also want a Wisconsin Certificate of Status, which costs $10. Registering a foreign LLC in Wisconsin incurs a fee of $100. Operating under a different name (DBA) costs $15.

Regarding registered agent services, you can either act as your agent at no cost or hire a professional service, which typically ranges from $100 to $300.

Additionally, remember that taxes can vary based on your specific business activities, and the Wisconsin State Business License Fee also varies depending on your business type.

Wisconsin LLC Business Name Search Cost ($0)

A business name search is essential when starting an LLC in Wisconsin. The great news is that this search costs $0.

Visit the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) website to check if your desired name is available. It’s simple and free.

To search, enter the name you want to use. The system will show you if there are any existing businesses with that name. This step ensures that your LLC is unique and complies with state requirements.

If the name is available, you can proceed with your application. If not, you must adjust your name to find an available option.

Taking this step seriously will save you time and help you avoid potential legal issues. A unique name is crucial for building your brand and reputation.

Wisconsin Articles of Organization ($130)

To start an LLC in Wisconsin, you must file the Articles of Organization. This document is essential for officially establishing your business. The filing fee for this form is $130 if you submit it online. If you send it by mail, the cost increases to $170.

Filing the Articles of Organization allows you to register your LLC with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions. This means that your business will be recognized legally in the state.

Wisconsin LLC processing time depends on the filing method. If you file online, you can form a Wisconsin LLC in one day. If you prefer mail filing, expect the process to take two weeks.

LLC Operating Agreement Cost in Wisconsin ($0 with Northwest)

When forming an LLC in Wisconsin, having an operating agreement is important. This document outlines how your LLC will run and the responsibilities of its members.

The good news is that if you use Northwest Registered Agent, you can get your operating agreement for $0. This option saves you money, especially when you’re starting your business.

The state of Wisconsin does not require an operating agreement, but it is highly recommended. Having one can help clarify decision-making processes and protect your assets.

With Northwest, you can access a free operating agreement template. This makes creating the document straightforward. You simply fill in your specific details and are well on your way.

In contrast, if you choose other services, you might pay extra fees for this document. Northwest’s pricing makes it a smart choice for those looking to save on startup costs.

Registered Agent Fee ($0-$300/year)

You need a registered agent when you set up an LLC in Wisconsin. This agent receives important legal papers on behalf of your business. You have a few options when it comes to costs.

There is no fee to be your own registered agent. Just provide your name and address. If you are comfortable handling documents yourself, this could save you money.

Hiring a professional Wisconsin-registered agent service costs money. Most services charge between $100 and $300 per year. For instance, LegalZoom charges about $249 annually, while ZenBusiness offers services for $199. These services often provide added privacy and support.

One competitive option is Northwest Registered Agent.

You can get the first year for free if you use them to form your LLC. After that, their fee is $125 a year, which is still lower than many others in the market.

EIN Cost in Wisconsin ($0 from the IRS website)

When starting an LLC in Wisconsin, you’ll need an Employer Identification Number (EIN). The best part? The EIN is free. You can obtain it directly from the IRS without any cost.

Applying for an EIN is simple. You can do it online through the IRS website, and the process typically takes only a few minutes.

Once your application is complete, you will receive your EIN immediately. This number is essential for various reasons, including opening a business bank account and filing taxes.

Always verify that you’re on the official IRS site to avoid unnecessary fees. Obtaining your EIN is free, making it affordable to start your LLC.

Wisconsin Annual Report ($25/annually)

In Wisconsin, every LLC must file an annual report to stay in good standing. The fee for this report is $25, paid to the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI).

You must submit your report by the end of the quarter when your LLC was formed. For instance, if your LLC started on June 15, your report will be due by September 30.

Failure to file on time can result in penalties and jeopardize your LLC’s status. It’s important to keep track of these dates.

If you use a registered agent service, remember they may charge an additional fee, usually around $125 annually.

LLC Name Reservation Fee in Wisconsin ($15)

If you’re starting an LLC in Wisconsin, you might want to reserve your business name. The fee for this reservation is $15. This fee ensures that no one else uses the name you want while you complete your LLC formation.

You can submit your name reservation application online or by mail. The reservation lasts 120 days, which gives you time to finalize your business structure and file the necessary documents.

Reserving a name can save you stress. It prevents the situation where someone else registers your preferred name before you can do so. While the fee isn’t high, it provides peace of mind.

Fictitious Name/DBA Cost in Wisconsin ($15)

In Wisconsin, filing for a Fictitious Name, also known as a Doing Business As (DBA), costs $15. This fee allows you to operate your business under a name that is not your legal name.

You must pay this fee every ten years. After that period, you can renew your DBA for another $15. This process makes it easy to maintain your business identity.

You can submit your DBA paperwork online or offline. Visit the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) website for online submissions. If you prefer to file by mail, send your completed form to the DFI’s address in Madison, Wisconsin.

It’s always wise to check the DFI website for any fee updates. Fees can change, so verifying the amount before filing is a good practice.

Wisconsin Certificate of Status ($10)

In Wisconsin, a Certificate of Status is an important document for your LLC. It proves your business is legally registered and in good standing with the state.

You can obtain this certificate online for $10. After purchasing, it is available immediately, and you can print multiple copies within six days. This is helpful if you must present the document for loans or contracts.

The Certificate of Status can be delivered in several ways: you can receive it by email, request it via postal mail, or pick it up in person. This flexibility makes it easier for you to access the document when needed.

Wisconsin Foreign LLC Registration Fee ($100)

To register a foreign LLC in Wisconsin, you must pay a $100 filing fee. This fee applies when your company, which was formed in another state, wants to conduct business in Wisconsin.

The registration process requires submitting a Certificate of Registration to the Department of Financial Institutions. You can make this payment using a credit card or ECheck. Accepted card types include Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express.

If you miss the registration deadline, additional penalties may apply. Staying on top of these dates is crucial to avoid extra charges.

After you submit your application and payment, processing typically takes 2 to 3 weeks. If you’re in a hurry, you can request expedited processing for an extra fee, reducing the time to just a few days.

Wisconsin State Business License Fee (varies by business type)

In Wisconsin, there is no single general business license that every business must obtain. However, most LLCs involved in sales must apply for a Business Tax Registration (BTR). This is essential for businesses that sell goods or services.

When you file for the BTR, you can also register for a Seller’s Permit or a Consumer’s Use Tax Certificate. Some specialized permits might be needed for specific types of businesses, like food services, lodging, or vehicle rentals.

Registering for the Business Tax Registration is $20 for the initial two years. After that, renewal costs $10 every two years.

Wisconsin LLC Taxes (varies)

When operating an LLC in Wisconsin, you face various tax obligations. The costs can differ based on your specific business activities and industry.

Wisconsin LLCs usually function as pass-through entities. This means that profits are passed on to members, who report this income on their tax returns.

Here are some common taxes you may need to pay:

• Federal income tax
• State income tax
• Local income tax
• Self-employment tax (15.3%)
• Sales and use tax
• Payroll tax (if you have employees)
• Property tax (if your LLC owns the property)

Because every LLC has unique factors, it’s hard to provide a precise estimate of your total tax costs. Your responsibilities will depend on several factors, including your income level and business type.

Wisconsin LLC reinstatement fee ($100)

If you need to reinstate your LLC in Wisconsin, be prepared to pay a $100 reinstatement fee. This fee is a standard requirement the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) sets.

In addition to the reinstatement fee, you may also face charges for missing annual reports. Each overdue report costs $40. Therefore, these fees can add up quickly if you have multiple reports pending.

To start the reinstatement process, you must submit a completed application along with your payment. Once everything is processed, the DFI will send you a Certificate of Reinstatement.

Wisconsin LLC dissolution fee ($20)

When you decide to dissolve your LLC in Wisconsin, you must pay a $20 filing fee to the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions.

It’s essential to understand that this fee is a one-time payment. You should prepare to pay this when you submit your Form 510, which is necessary for the dissolution process.

You may face additional costs if your LLC has any unpaid taxes or other fees. For example, if there are years with delinquent fees, you will need to pay $25 for each year.

To avoid delays, ensure all your business is in order before filing. An expedited service, which costs more but speeds up the dissolution process, is available.

Wisconsin LLC Change of Registered Agent fee ($25)

Changing your registered agent in Wisconsin requires submitting specific forms and paying a fee. The fee for filing the change is $25.

You must complete the Form 13: Statement of Change to make this change.

This form can be filed online, by mail, or in person at the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions.

If you need the change processed more quickly, an expedited option is available for $25. This is in addition to the standard filing fee, allowing you to receive faster service.

Provide accurate information about your new registered agent, including their name, address, and any other required details. Keeping your registered agent information current is essential for maintaining your LLC’s compliance with state regulations.

What is the Cheapest Way to Start a Wisconsin LLC?

Starting an LLC in Wisconsin can be affordable if you choose the right approach. The standard fee for filing your Articles of Organization online is $130, making this the most cost-effective option.

You can also submit a paper application, which costs $170. However, the online route is cheaper if you want to save money.

Companies like Northwest offer services starting at $29 plus state fees if you want assistance. Using a service can save time, but it adds extra costs.

Consider the processing times as well. Filing online generally takes 2 to 3 weeks. If you need it faster, you can expedite it for an additional $50. However, this will increase your total cost.

Doing it yourself allows you to save on these extra fees. Just follow the naming rules and ensure all information is correct. Mistakes can lead to extra costs later on.

While online filing is the least expensive, it requires you to invest time in understanding the process. Hiring a service might make it easier, but it does reduce the savings.

Should You Use an LLC Formation Service in Wisconsin?

When starting an LLC in Wisconsin, you might wonder if using a formation service is worth it. There are both benefits and drawbacks you should consider.

One major benefit is peace of mind.

These services can take the stress out of forming your LLC. You don’t have to worry about filing paperwork or missing important deadlines. With a service like Northwest Registered Agent, your paperwork is managed, allowing you to focus on your business.

Another advantage is staying in compliance. Formation services help ensure that you meet state requirements. They often provide reminders for filing annual reports and other necessities so you avoid potential penalties.

You may also appreciate the privacy benefits. A registered agent can help keep your personal information off public records. This added layer of privacy can be very appealing, especially if you’re starting a business from home.

In some cases, you might enjoy tackling the paperwork yourself. If you’re detail-oriented and willing to research, doing it alone could save you money.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a business license for an LLC in Wisconsin?

You generally need a business license to operate your LLC in Wisconsin. The requirements vary depending on your business type and location, so it’s vital to check with local authorities.

Is Wisconsin a good state to form an LLC?

Wisconsin is often considered a good state in which to form an LLC due to its reasonable filing fees and favorable business environment. The state offers strong protections for LLC owners and has a supportive community for small businesses.

How much does it cost to reinstate an LLC in Wisconsin?

If your LLC becomes inactive or delinquent, reinstating it costs $100 in Wisconsin. You must also pay overdue fees or taxes before the LLC can be reinstated.

Do I need to hire an attorney to form an LLC in Wisconsin?

While hiring an attorney is not required to form an LLC, it can be beneficial. An attorney can provide valuable advice, especially if your business has unique circumstances or needs specific compliance guidance.

How much does it cost to dissolve an LLC in Wisconsin?

To dissolve an LLC in Wisconsin, you must file the Articles of Dissolution, which costs $20. However, ensure there are no outstanding obligations or debts, as these may affect the dissolution process.

Should I hire an LLC formation service in Wisconsin?

An LLC formation service can save you time and ensure everything is completed correctly. These services generally charge a fee ranging from $100 to several hundred, depending on your chosen package.

Are there penalties for paying my fees late in Wisconsin?

Yes, paying your fees late can result in penalties. The state may impose late fees, eventually leading to your LLC being listed as inactive or delinquent.

What happens if I do not file my Wisconsin LLC annual report?

If you fail to file your LLC’s annual report in Wisconsin, you may face penalties, including fines. Continued neglect can result in your LLC being administratively dissolved, affecting your business operations.