Does Wisconsin have a state income tax?

Yes, Wisconsin has a personal income tax rate of 3.54%-7.65% and a corporate tax rate of 7.9%.

Do I need an EIN to start a business in Wisconsin?

Yes, most businesses need an EIN (Employer Identification Number). It's free from the IRS — apply online at IRS.gov and receive it immediately.

How to Start a Business in Wisconsin

Q: How long does it take to form a business in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin typically processes business filings in 3-5 business days. Online filing is available through the Dept. of Financial Institutions.

Everything you need to form an LLC or Corporation in Wisconsin — filing fees, tax rates, and step-by-step instructions.

$130

LLC Filing Fee

$100

Corp Filing Fee

3.54%-7.65%

Income Tax

3-5

Days to File

Steps to Start a Business in Wisconsin

Choose Your Business Structure

Decide between LLC, Corporation, S-Corp, Sole Proprietorship, or Partnership. LLCs are the most popular choice in Wisconsin for their simplicity and liability protection.

Choose a Business Name

Your business name must be unique in Wisconsin. Search the Dept. of Financial Institutions database to check availability. For LLCs, the name must include 'LLC' or 'Limited Liability Company.'

Appoint a Registered Agent

Every Wisconsin business needs a registered agent — a person or service with a physical address in Wisconsin who receives legal documents on your behalf.

File with the Dept. of Financial Institutions

File your Articles of Organization (LLC) or Articles of Incorporation (Corp) with the Wisconsin Dept. of Financial Institutions. Filing fee: $130 for LLC, $100 for Corp.

Get Your EIN

Apply for a free Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. Takes minutes online at IRS.gov. You'll need this for taxes, banking, and hiring.

Open a Business Bank Account

Separate your business and personal finances. You'll need your EIN, formation documents, and operating agreement. Holdings makes this easy with integrated banking.

Business Entity Types in Wisconsin

LLC

Corporation

Corporation (C-Corp)

Businesses planning to raise venture capital, go public, or have complex ownership structures.

Wisconsin filing fee: $100

S-Corp

S Corporation

Small businesses wanting to reduce self-employment tax while keeping pass-through taxation. Must meet IRS eligibility (≤100 shareholders, US citizens/residents only).

Sole Proprietorship

Solo freelancers and contractors. No state filing required but offers no liability protection.

Partnership

General Partnership

Two or more people starting a business together. Consider an LLC instead for liability protection.

Nonprofit

Nonprofit Corporation

Organizations with charitable, educational, or religious missions seeking 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status.

Getting an EIN in Wisconsin

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a 9-digit number assigned by the IRS to identify your business for tax purposes.

Free

IRS Filing Cost

Instant

Online Application

9 Digits

EIN Format

Apply for EIN at IRS.gov →

Wisconsin Business Taxes

Corporate Tax Rate	7.9%
Personal Income Tax	3.54%-7.65%
Annual Report Fee	$25

Official Wisconsin Resources

🏛️

Dept. of Financial Institutions

File your business formation documents

📋

IRS EIN Application

Get your free EIN online instantly

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Filing an LLC in Wisconsin costs $130 with the Dept. of Financial Institutions. You'll also pay $25 annually for the annual report. Add $50–$300/year if you hire a registered agent service.

How long does it take to form a business in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin typically processes filings in 3-5 business days. Online filing is available and generally faster.

Do I need a registered agent in Wisconsin?

Yes. Every business entity in Wisconsin must have a registered agent — a person or service with a physical address in Wisconsin who can receive legal and tax documents on your behalf. You can serve as your own registered agent if you have a Wisconsin address.

Should I form an LLC or Corporation in Wisconsin?

For most small businesses, an LLC is the better choice — simpler management, flexible taxation, and personal liability protection. Choose a Corporation if you plan to raise venture capital or go public. In Wisconsin, an LLC costs $130 to file vs $100 for a Corporation.

Start a Business in Other States

Alabama LLC: $200 Alaska LLC: $250 Arizona LLC: $50 Arkansas LLC: $45 California LLC: $70 Colorado LLC: $50

View all 51 states →

Related Resources

NAICSFind Your NAICS Code for Registration GlossaryWhat Is an EIN? (Employer ID Number)GlossaryWhat Is a DBA?FeesCompare Business Bank Accounts

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