Why Form an LLC in Wisconsin
Wisconsin offers a stable business environment spanning manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, and technology. Home to Northwestern Mutual, Harley-Davidson, and Epic Systems.
Formation costs $130 online ($170 mail) with $25 annual report. The Department of Financial Institutions handles filings.
Madison is emerging as a strong Midwest tech city, anchored by UW-Madison and Epic Systems (largest EHR company in the US).
Income tax up to 7.65% is higher than most states, making it less attractive for non-residents.
Wisconsin LLC Costs and Fees
Complete fee breakdown for Wisconsin LLCs. State fees sourced from the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions.
| Fee | Amount | When Due |
|---|---|---|
| Articles of Organization (online) | $130 | One-time |
| Articles of Organization (mail) | $170 | One-time |
| Annual report | $25/year | End of anniversary quarter |
| 24-hour expedited | $25 additional | Optional |
| Registered agent | $100-150/year | Ongoing |
Step-by-Step: How to Form a Wisconsin LLC
Step 1: Choose your LLC name
Your name must be distinguishable from existing entities. Must include "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company." Check availability on the Wisconsin business search. Reserve a name for 120 days for $15.
Step 2: Appoint a registered agent
Every Wisconsin LLC needs a registered agent with a physical Wisconsin address (not a PO Box). USLLCGlobal includes one year of registered agent service in all packages.
Step 3: File Articles of Organization
File with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions through the Wisconsin filing portal or by mail. Required information:
- LLC name with designator
- Registered agent name and address
- LLC mailing address
- Organizer name and address
- Member-managed or manager-managed
- $130 filing fee
Step 4: Create an Operating Agreement
Not legally required in Wisconsin but essential. Defines ownership, profit distribution, management, and exit provisions. Banks and the IRS expect to see it.
Step 5: Obtain an EIN
Your federal tax ID from the IRS. Required for bank accounts, hiring, and taxes. Non-residents can apply via Form SS-4 (4-6 weeks). USLLCGlobal handles EIN applications in every package.
Step 6: Open a US bank account
With your Articles of Organization, EIN, and Operating Agreement, open a US business account. Mercury, Relay, and Wise Business allow remote opening for non-residents.
Annual Compliance Requirements
What you need each year to keep your Wisconsin LLC in good standing:
- Annual report: End of anniversary quarter. Fee $25.
- Federal tax filing: Form 5472 for non-US owners. $25,000 penalty.
- WI state tax: Up to 7.65%.
- Registered agent: Maintain physical WI address.
- FinCEN BOI Report: File within 30 days.
Wisconsin Taxes for LLCs
| Tax Type | Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Personal income tax | Up to 7.65% | Pass-through to members |
| Franchise tax | $0 | No franchise tax |
| Gross receipts tax | $0 | No gross receipts tax |
| State sales tax | 5% + local | If selling taxable goods |
Important tax note
Forming in Wisconsin does not eliminate federal US tax obligations. Non-resident owners must file Form 5472 annually ($25,000 penalty for non-filing). Consult a qualified tax professional.
Processing Times
| Option | Time | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 3-5 business days | $0 (included) |
| 24-hour processing | As described | $25 additional |
Pros and Cons of a Wisconsin LLC
Advantages
- Low $25/year annual report
- Strong diversified economy
- Epic Systems — major health tech
- Excellent universities
- Low cost of living outside metros
- No franchise tax
- Growing Madison tech scene
- Strong manufacturing
Disadvantages
- Higher income tax (up to 7.65%)
- $130 filing fee ($170 mail)
- 5% sales tax plus local
- Cold climate
- Smaller market than Illinois
- Not competitive for non-residents
The bottom line
Strong for upper Midwest businesses, especially healthcare tech (Epic Systems), manufacturing, and agriculture. $25 annual report is affordable, but 7.65% income tax makes it unsuitable for non-resident tax optimization.
Our Pricing: Wisconsin LLC Formation
Domestic Filers (US Residents)
$249 service + $130 state fee
International Filers (Non-US)
$349 service + $130 state fee
Every package includes:
- Articles of Organization filing with Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions
- One year registered agent service
- Custom Operating Agreement
- EIN application
- Banking introduction letter
- Digital delivery within 24 hours of approval
- Compliance calendar
- Dedicated email and WhatsApp support
No hidden fees. No upsells. The price listed is the price you pay.
Form your Wisconsin LLC today
$379 all-in for US residents. $479 for international filers. Formed in 3-5 business days.
Start My Wisconsin LLC →