How much does an LLC cost in Wisconsin? (details)
Forming a Wisconsin LLC entails more than just paying the first filing fee; it doesn't have to be extremely expensive.
We outline all up-front and continuing costs for a Wisconsin LLC and advise how to successfully cut these out of the budget.
How Much Does It Cost to Start an LLC in Wisconsin?
There is a $130 filing fee for the Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State when forming an LLC in Wisconsin.
This is important in creating your LLC's legal standing, allowing it to function under Wisconsin regulations if approved.
Apart from the LLC filing fee mentioned above, additional expenses are associated with establishing a Wisconsin LLC (Limited Liability Company).
Costs of Forming a Wisconsin LLC
Forming an LLC includes a one-time state filing fee of $130.
There are also ongoing fees (like a $25 Annual Report fee and potential business license fees), which we discuss below.
LLC Costs in Wisconsin
| Requirement | Cost |
|---|---|
| LLC Name | $0 |
| Registered Agent | $0 or $125 per year |
| Articles of Organization | $130 |
| Operating Agreement | $0 (free on our site) |
| EIN Number | $0 (free to the IRS) |
| Annual Report | $25 |
| Taxes | varies (filed and/or paid every year) |
The filing fee for a Wisconsin LLC Articles of Organization is $130
In Wisconsin, forming an LLC requires paying the Secretary of State a $130 filing fee for the Articles of Organization. This paper creates your LLC legally if it is accepted.
After formation, you only need to pay the $130 one-time charge; after that, you won't need to pay any more monthly or yearly fees to keep your Wisconsin LLC active.
✎ Note:
LLCs represent the predominant business structure in Wisconsin, chosen for their robust liability protection afforded to owners, making them highly favored among business entities.
The form used to establish an LLC can vary by state; it may be called the Articles of Organization.
In Wisconsin, it is specifically known as the Articles of Organization. Despite these variations in naming, they all serve the same purpose to create your LLC legally.
Reserving a business name in Wisconsin entails a fee of $0
The creation of your Wisconsin LLC Name Reservation is completed simultaneously if you want to file online. An additional $0 filing fee is required for an online name reservation when filing online.
Remember to include the Name Reservation with your application if you want to file by mail.
But before forming your LLC, you have to wait for the Name Reservation to be approved. Even though filing by mail can save you a few bucks, it can take longer to form your LLC.
How much does a DBA cost? ($15)
In Wisconsin, a DBA is filed with the town clerk rather than the Secretary of State. Therefore, the cost of a DBA will vary depending on the town where your LLC is doing business.
✎ Note:
A DBA, also known as a Trade Name, Fictitious Name, Assumed Name, or Fictitious Business Name, refers to the same concept.
★ Tip:
Obtaining a DBA for your LLC is optional and not a requirement.
Wisconsin Registered Agent Fee ($0 to $125/ annually)
Under Wisconsin law, every LLC formation requires the appointment of a Registered Agent.
Your Wisconsin Registered Agent acts as the liaison for legal documents and state notifications on behalf of your LLC, necessitating a physical address within the state and availability during regular business hours.
You can appoint yourself, a trusted associate, or a family member as your Registered Agent without incurring additional expenses.
Alternatively, hiring a Registered Agent service costs between $100 and $300 per year. These services offer additional business support and safeguard your privacy.
Hiring a Registered Agent service is a good idea if:
- You lack a physical address in the state (Wisconsin law mandates Registered Agents to have an address within the state).
- You prefer to keep your address private (some companies allow you to use their address for confidentiality).
Exclusive Offer!
Hire a Northwest Registered Agent to form your LLC for just $39 plus the state fee and receive a free year of Registered Agent service.
(Why is Northwest the best? Read our Northwest Registered Agent review)
LLC Operating Agreement Fee ($0)
A Wisconsin LLC Operating Agreement functions as a written contract among the LLC's members. It outlines specific details regarding ownership, how the LLC is managed, and the distribution of profits.
Both Single-Member and Multi-Member LLCs should create an Operating Agreement, maintain it within their business records, and provide each member with a copy.
Online services generally charge between $50 to $200 for crafting an LLC Operating Agreement.
LLC EIN Number Fee ($0)
An EIN, also referred to as an Employer Identification Number or FEIN (Federal Employer Identification Number), is essential for handling tax filings, setting up an LLC bank account, and potentially facilitating employee hiring.
While some platforms may charge a fee, you can obtain an EIN for your LLC free of charge directly from the IRS. The process to apply online is simple and typically takes only a few minutes to complete.
Wisconsin LLC Annual Report Fee ($25/year)
In Wisconsin, the LLC Annual Report is referred to as the Periodic Report.
The state requires you to keep your LLC's information up to date by filing a Wisconsin Periodic Report annually.
This keeps your LLC in good standing and compliance with state law so it can continue operating. You simply confirm the information on your Periodic Report, file it with the Wisconsin Secretary of State, and pay the Periodic Report filing fee.
The Wisconsin LLC Periodic Report is free annually. These costs are required each year for the duration of your LLC's existence.
✎ Note:
Other business entities may file different reports, but LLCs only need to file the Periodic Report each year.
Wisconsin Business License and Permit Fees
The locations and industry sectors in which your LLC operates in Wisconsin may require you to apply for additional business licenses or permits. For your LLC's specific operating area, for example, it may be necessary to obtain a city business permit.
Location and industry specifics can affect the cost of these licenses or permits. These costs are usually fair. Local governments such as towns, cities, or counties are responsible for administering some licenses and permits, while the state issues others.
LLC Taxes
Wisconsin LLC owners face a range of tax obligations, leading to varying annual costs.
Some of the taxes LLC owners pay include:
- Federal taxes
- State income tax
- Local income tax
- Business taxes
- Self-employment taxes
- Sales and use tax
- Payroll tax (if you have employees)
- Property tax (if the LLC owns property)
The Taxes of Your Wisconsin LLC taxes are affected by your industry and business activities, making it difficult to predict. Every business is different, and the taxes your LLC owes depend on your specific situation.
✎ Note:
Typically, a Single-Member LLC is taxed similarly to a Sole Proprietorship, while a Multi-Member LLC is taxed similarly to a Partnership.
Hiring an Accountant
Accounting fees can vary, but in general, expect to pay about $300 a year for basic tax returns and up to $900 for more comprehensive filings.
The best person to help you determine your small business tax liability in Wisconsin is a certified accountant.
While accounting costs can vary, you should generally budget $300 for simple tax returns and up to $900 for more complicated filings annually.
Need to save time?
Consider hiring a professional to set up your LLC: Northwest Registered Agent offers LLC formation services starting at $39 plus the state fee.
(Find out why Northwest is the top choice for LLC formation)
✎ Note:
Accounting fees can vary, but in general, expect to pay about $300 a year for basic tax returns and up to $900 for more comprehensive filings. We recommend speaking with a few Wisconsin accountants to make sure they can help you with all of your local, state, and federal tax needs. For more advice, see our comprehensive guide on how to find an accountant.
Wisconsin Secretary of State
If you're curious about the expenses involved in starting a Wisconsin LLC, feel free to contact the Wisconsin Secretary of State for detailed information.
Wisconsin LLC Costs FAQs
How much does it cost to start an LLC in Wisconsin?
To start an LLC in Wisconsin, it costs $170 if you file by mail or use Wisconsin’s One Stop business portal.
However, if you file online using the DFI’s QuickStart LLC system, you receive a $40 discount, reducing the fee to $130.
This fee is for filing the Articles of Organization and is a one-time payment to the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI).
Do you have to pay an annual fee for an LLC in Wisconsin?
Yes, all Wisconsin LLCs must pay $25 annually for the Annual Report to maintain good standing with the Wisconsin DFI.
If you hire a Registered Agent service, there’s typically an annual fee of around $125.
Additionally, some LLCs might require a business license depending on your industry and location. Check with your municipality for any annual fees associated with business licenses.
Do I need to hire an attorney to form an LLC?
No, hiring an attorney is not required to form an LLC in Wisconsin. You can complete the LLC formation process yourself.
However, you might consider hiring an attorney if your LLC has a complex ownership structure, involves investors, or requires specific documentation. Typically, a business attorney charges between $800 and $2,500 for LLC formation.
Should I hire an LLC formation service?
Using an LLC formation service in Wisconsin is not mandatory. You can handle the formation process on your own.
However, if you prefer to save time and ensure accurate filing, consider using a service like Northwest Registered Agent. They offer excellent customer service and include Registered Agent services free for the first year. Additional services such as preparing an Operating Agreement and filing your Annual Report are also available.
Alternative options include Northwest Registered Agent ($39 + state fee) or LegalZoom ($149 + state fee). Compare these options to find the best fit for your needs.
What’s the cheapest way to start an LLC in Wisconsin?
The most cost-effective way to start an LLC in Wisconsin is to file your formation documents yourself and act as your own Registered Agent. You can also use a free LLC Operating Agreement template to further reduce costs.
By doing this, you can save over $250 compared to using a formation service.
Ensure you are available during normal business hours and have a physical street address in Wisconsin to serve as your LLC’s Registered Agent.
How much does a Wisconsin business bank account cost?
The cost of a business bank account varies. Some banks charge monthly fees ($10 to $20), but these fees can often be waived by meeting specific requirements, such as maintaining a minimum balance or making a certain number of direct deposits.
You might also find banks that offer accounts with no monthly fees. It’s advisable to contact banks to inquire about ways to avoid maintenance fees before opening an account.
How much is a Foreign LLC in Wisconsin?
A Foreign LLC, which is an LLC formed in another state but doing business in Wisconsin, costs $100 to register. You need to file the Certificate of Registration for a Foreign Limited Liability Company (Form 521) with the state.
This form can be filed online or downloaded from the state’s website.
How long does it take to get an LLC in Wisconsin?
The processing time for an LLC in Wisconsin depends on the filing method:
- By mail: Approximately 5 business days, plus mail time
- Online: Immediate
- Expedited by mail: 1 business day for an additional $25
Is Wisconsin a good state for an LLC?
Wisconsin is an excellent state for starting a business, with fast approval times and helpful representatives at the DFI. Additionally, Wisconsin does not require a general business license.
However, the most critical factors for choosing a state are where you live and where you plan to do business. If you live in or operate your business in Wisconsin, it’s generally best to form your LLC there. Forming an LLC in another state, such as Florida, while living and doing business in Wisconsin will require you to register your out-of-state LLC in Wisconsin, resulting in additional fees and complications.
How do I set up an LLC in Wisconsin?
To set up an LLC in Wisconsin, follow these steps:
- Choose an LLC business name and verify its availability
- Select a Wisconsin Registered Agent
- File the Wisconsin Articles of Organization
- Complete and sign an LLC Operating Agreement
- Obtain a Tax ID Number (EIN) from the IRS
- Open a business bank account
- Check if you need a business or sales tax license in Wisconsin