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

Processing times vary: 5-10 business days. Online filings are typically faster than mail submissions. Expedited processing may be available for an additional fee.

Do I need a business license in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin does not require a state-level business license, but individual cities and counties may have their own requirements. Check with your local government for specific licensing needs.

Can I use my personal name as my business name?

Yes, you can use your personal name as your business name. For an LLC, you'll need to add "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company" to the end. However, using a unique business name often provides better branding opportunities and legal protection.

What if my desired business name is already taken?

If your preferred name is unavailable, you have several options: 1) Choose a different name, 2) Add descriptive words to make it unique, 3) Use a different LLC suffix (LLC, L.L.C., etc.), or 4) Consider filing a "Doing Business As" (DBA) name while keeping a different legal name.

How much does it cost to start a business in Wisconsin?

The LLC filing fee is $130. Annual fees are $25. Additional costs include business licenses ($50-500), registered agent fees ($50-300/year if using a service), and other startup expenses. Total first-year costs typically range from $250.

Do I need a trademark for my business name?

While not required, trademark registration provides nationwide protection for your business name. Registering your LLC with the state only protects your name within Wisconsin. If you plan to expand beyond the state or want stronger legal protection, consider applying for a federal trademark with the USPTO.

Can I change my business name later?

Yes, you can change your LLC name by filing an amendment with the Wisconsin Secretary of State. This typically costs $20-100 and takes a few weeks to process. However, changing your name can be expensive when you consider updating all your marketing materials, domain, signage, and legal documents.

Wisconsin Business Name Generator

Generate unique business names for your Wisconsin LLC or startup. Get AI-powered suggestions tailored to Wisconsin businesses and local market.

Generate Business Names for Wisconsin

Describe your business idea

Choose naming style

Professional & corporate

Why Start a Business in Wisconsin?

$130

Filing Fee

5-10

Processing (days)

500K

Total Businesses

55K/yr

New Businesses

Strong manufacturing tradition

Low annual fees

Quality of life in Madison

Strong dairy and agriculture industries

Starting a Business in Wisconsin

Top Cities for Business

Milwaukee577,222
Madison269,840
Green Bay107,395
Kenosha99,845
Racine77,816

Popular Industries

Manufacturing
Agriculture
Healthcare
Paper & Packaging
Tourism

Cost to Start a Business in Wisconsin

LLC Filing Fee$130

Annual Report Fee$25/year

Name Reservation (optional)$15 for 120 days

Business License (varies by city)$50-500

Estimated Total First Year$250

Processing time: 5-10 business days

Wisconsin Tax Overview

Wisconsin has income tax rates from 3.54-7.65%. Corporate tax is 7.9%. Sales tax is 5% state plus local.

Wisconsin Business Name Requirements

Must include "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company"
Must be distinguishable

Restricted Words: The following words cannot be used without special approval:

Bank, Trust, Insurance

Business Name Ideas for Wisconsin

Explore 30 pre-generated business name ideas across popular industries. Use these as inspiration or starting points for your own unique name.

restaurant

Badger Table
Wisconsin Cuisine
Milwaukee Kitchen
Midwest Dining
Madison Eats
Local Flavors

barbershop

Milwaukee Cuts
Premium Grooming
Badger Barbers
Classic Style
Wisconsin Shave
Expert Service

construction

Wisconsin Builders
Quality Construction
Badger Build
Building WI
Milwaukee Construction
Trusted Partners

consulting

Milwaukee Strategy
Business Growth
Badger Advisors
Strategic Solutions
Wisconsin Consulting
Expert Guidance

retail

Wisconsin Mercantile
Local Goods
Badger Market
Quality Products
Milwaukee Supply
Premium Retail

Home Services

Wisconsin Home Care
Complete Solutions
Badger Services
Professional Care
Milwaukee Home Pros
Expert Maintenance

technology

Milwaukee Tech Labs
Innovation
Badger Digital
Tech Solutions
Wisconsin Software
Custom Development

healthcare

Wisconsin Wellness
Quality Healthcare
Badger Medical
Patient Care
Milwaukee Health
Trusted Providers

Real Estate

Wisconsin Properties
Dream Homes
Badger Realty
Expert Service
Milwaukee Living
Premium Properties

fitness

Milwaukee Fitness
Peak Performance
Badger Strong
Community Fitness
Wisconsin Athletics
Elite Training

Official Wisconsin Business Resources

Wisconsin DFI

Business registration

Wisconsin Department of Revenue

Tax information

Wisconsin SBDC

Business counseling

How to Register a Business in Wisconsin

Annual Compliance Requirements

After forming your Wisconsin LLC, you'll need to maintain compliance with these ongoing requirements:

File Annual Report ($25)
Maintain registered agent
Pay state taxes
No state business license required

Check Domain Availability

Enter your business name to search for available domains

Business name

Opens GoDaddy search in a new tab

Frequently Asked Questions

Useful Tools for Wisconsin Business Owners

Self-Employment Tax

Calculate SE tax liability

Profit Margin Calculator

Calculate your profit margins

S-Corp Salary

Optimize salary vs distribution

Generate Names for Nearby States

Ready to Launch Your Wisconsin Business?

Jupid AI Accountant handles everything from LLC formation to ongoing tax compliance. Focus on growing your business while we handle the paperwork.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or financial advice. Information is accurate as of 2026-01. Always verify current requirements with the Wisconsin Secretary of State and consult with qualified professionals before making business decisions.