How To Start An LLC In Wisconsin In 2025
Everything you need to know about forming an LLC in Wisconsin, plus our expert-tested recommendations for the best formation services in the Badger State.
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Wisconsin makes LLC formation affordable and straightforward. With a $130 state filing fee (reduced from $170 with online filing), reasonable ongoing costs, and processing times as fast as 1-2 business days with expedited service, Wisconsin is a solid choice for starting your LLC. Whether you're in Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, or anywhere else in the Badger State, you can have your Wisconsin LLC up and running quickly.
Our top pick for Wisconsin LLC formation is ZenBusiness. They offer expedited processing for Wisconsin LLCs, include a year of free Worry-Free Compliance, and their $0 formation package means you only pay the $130 Wisconsin state fee. With their expertise in Wisconsin business law and excellent customer support, they make the entire process simple and stress-free.
Featured Partners
- Best filing & protections
- Fastest processing
- Free compliance for 1 yr
- Award-winning support
On ZenBusiness's Website
- Best for standard filing
- Fast processing options
- Free yr registered agent
- Lifetime company alerts
On Bizee's Website
- Best legal services
- Fast processing options
- AI legal forms
- Trusted since 1999
On LegalZoom's Website
- Best branding services
- Fast processing options
- Logo & website builder
- Establish your brand
On Tailor Brands's Website
Compare the Best Wisconsin LLC Services of 2025
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, and capabilities
| Feature | ZenBusiness Best Overall Value | Bizee Fastest Formation |  Inc Authority Free Formation | Tailor Brands Best for Branding | LegalZoom Best for Legal Support |  Rocket Lawyer Legal Documents |  BetterLegal Speed & Simplicity |  Active Filings Traditional Service |  Filenow Budget Option |  Northwest Basic Formation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees | $99.99 + state fees | $299 all-inclusive | $199 + state fees | $99 + state fees | $39 + state fees |
| Our Rating | 4.9 /5 | 4.6 /5 | 4.4 /5 | 4.3 /5 | 4.2 /5 | 4.0 /5 | 3.9 /5 | 3.8 /5 | 3.6 /5 | 3.4 /5 |
| Standard Processing | 7-10 days | 3 weeks | 7-10 days | 3 weeks | 5-14 days | 5-7 days | 2 days | 5-10 days | 7-10 days | 7-10 days |
| Rush Processing | 1 day +$79 | 1 day +$49 | 2 days +$99 | 1 day +$99 | Standard speed | 2 days +$100 | 3 days +$50 | |||
| Compliance Tools | Worry-Free Compliance Free 1st year | Alerts only Basic monitoring | Basic tools Included | Basic alerts Included | Premium only Extra cost | Document library With membership | Limited Basic support | Basic tools Limited | None Not available | None Not included |
| Registered Agent | $199/yr Not included | Free Year 1 Then $119/yr | Free Year 1 Then $199/yr | $119/yr Not included | $249/yr Not included | $149/yr Not included | Included In base price | Free Year 1 Then $119/yr | +$125/yr Not included | $125/yr Available |
| Operating Agreement | +$99 | +$99 | +$50 | Included | +$99 | Included | Included | +$99 | +$40 | +$39 |
| EIN Service | +$99 | +$70 | +$70 | Included | +$159 | +$99 | Included | +$70 | +$50 | +$70 |
| Customer Support | Phone, Chat, Email | Limited | Phone, Chat | Phone, Email | Phone, Chat | Phone, Chat | Phone, Email | Phone, Email | Email only | Email only |
| Mobile App | ||||||||||
| Attorney Access | ||||||||||
| Get Started | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → |
Note: State filing fees are additional for all services except where noted. Features and pricing may vary by state.
Our Top Picks for Wisconsin LLC Services
Best Overall for Wisconsin ZenBusiness excels at Wisconsin LLC formation with their expedited filing option and deep knowledge of Wisconsin's specific requirements. They include their Worry-Free Compliance for the first year (saving you $199+), handle your Wisconsin DFI registration, and provide ongoing compliance support. Their team is well-versed in Wisconsin's $25 annual report requirements and can help ensure you stay compliant with all state regulations.
Best For:
Wisconsin entrepreneurs who want comprehensive support and fast, accurate filing
Pros
- Expedited Wisconsin LLC filing available
- Free Worry-Free Compliance for 1 year
- Includes Wisconsin annual report reminder service
- Expert support familiar with Wisconsin requirements
- 100% accuracy guarantee on Wisconsin filings
- Free EIN and operating agreement with Pro plan
Cons
- Premium features require upgraded plans
- Registered agent is $199/year
Fast Wisconsin Formation Bizee (formerly Incfile) offers efficient Wisconsin LLC formation with expedited processing options. They provide a free Wisconsin registered agent for the first year and their dashboard specifically tracks Wisconsin's annual report requirements. Perfect for entrepreneurs who need their Wisconsin LLC formed efficiently and cost-effectively.
Best For:
Wisconsin businesses needing efficient formation
Pros
- Fast Wisconsin processing available
- Free Wisconsin registered agent for first year
- Lifetime company alerts for Wisconsin compliance
- Dashboard tracks Wisconsin annual reports
- Free business tools and templates
- No hidden fees on basic package
Cons
- Operating agreement costs extra
- Limited phone support hours
Best Legal Support in WI LegalZoom brings decades of experience with Wisconsin business formation. Their attorney network includes Wisconsin-licensed lawyers who can provide state-specific legal advice. While their add-ons are pricier, they're ideal for Wisconsin businesses with complex legal needs or those who want the security of professional legal backing.
Best For:
Wisconsin businesses needing ongoing legal support and guidance
Pros
- Attorney consultations for Wisconsin law
- Rush filing available for Wisconsin
- Comprehensive Wisconsin legal forms library
- Phone support with Wisconsin expertise
- 30+ years serving Wisconsin businesses
- Peace of mind guarantee
Cons
- Wisconsin registered agent costs $249/year
- Operating agreement extra (+$99)
Best Wisconsin Branding Package Tailor Brands combines Wisconsin LLC formation with comprehensive branding tools. Perfect for Wisconsin's diverse business landscape, they help establish your brand identity while handling the legal formation. Their packages include everything needed to launch a professional Wisconsin business presence online and offline.
Best For:
Wisconsin creative businesses and startups needing branding
Pros
- Logo design and branding included
- Website builder with Wisconsin business info
- Business cards with Wisconsin address
- Quick Wisconsin processing
- EIN and operating agreement included
- Social media kit for Wisconsin business
Cons
- Monthly subscription required
- No rush processing for Wisconsin
Free Wisconsin Formation Inc Authority offers genuinely free Wisconsin LLC formation where you only pay the $130 state fee. They include a free Wisconsin registered agent for the first year and handle all Wisconsin DFI filings. While processing is slower than competitors, they're perfect for Wisconsin entrepreneurs prioritizing cost savings over speed.
Best For:
Budget-conscious Wisconsin entrepreneurs
Pros
- Truly free Wisconsin LLC formation
- Free Wisconsin registered agent for first year
- Free tax consultation for Wisconsin businesses
- Handles Wisconsin DFI filing
- No hidden fees on basic package
- Wisconsin business forms included
Cons
- Processing takes 5-7 business days
- Wisconsin registered agent renews at $119/year
- Aggressive upselling reported
Privacy Focused Northwest Registered Agent takes a minimalist approach to Wisconsin LLC formation, focusing on privacy and straightforward service without the bells and whistles. They handle your Wisconsin DFI registration efficiently and provide registered agent services at competitive rates, making them ideal for business owners who prefer a simple, direct approach to LLC formation.
Best For:
Wisconsin entrepreneurs who prioritize privacy and simple, no-frills service
Pros
- Strong privacy protection for Wisconsin businesses
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Handles Wisconsin DFI filing
- No aggressive marketing or upselling
- Straightforward Wisconsin LLC process
- Low-cost registered agent service
Cons
- Email-only customer support
- No rush processing for Wisconsin filings
- Limited business tools and resources
- Basic operating agreement template
All-Inclusive & Fast BetterLegal offers a streamlined approach to Wisconsin LLC formation with their comprehensive $299 service package plus Wisconsin's $130 state filing fee. With guaranteed fast turnaround and transparent pricing, they're perfect for entrepreneurs who want speed and simplicity without hidden costs in their Wisconsin LLC formation process.
Best For:
Wisconsin businesses needing everything done quickly with transparent pricing
Pros
- Guaranteed fast Wisconsin formation
- Everything included: formation, EIN, operating agreement, registered agent
- Transparent flat-rate pricing structure
- Wisconsin-specific compliance guidance
- No hidden fees or surprise costs
- Streamlined single-package approach
Cons
- Higher upfront cost than budget options
- State filing fees are additional cost
- Limited ongoing support after formation
- Fewer customization options
Legal Platform Rocket Lawyer goes beyond simple Wisconsin LLC formation to provide a comprehensive legal platform. With access to Wisconsin-licensed attorneys and an extensive library of legal documents, they're ideal for businesses that need ongoing legal support. While formation takes longer than specialized services, the added legal resources make it worthwhile for complex Wisconsin business needs.
Best For:
Wisconsin businesses anticipating ongoing legal needs and document creation
Pros
- Access to Wisconsin-licensed attorneys
- Comprehensive legal document library
- Ongoing legal support beyond formation
- Rush Wisconsin processing available (additional fee)
- Wisconsin business law resources
- Attorney consultations included with membership
Cons
- Monthly membership required for best value
- Wisconsin formation takes 5-7 business days
- Higher costs compared to formation-only services
- Complex pricing structure
Traditional Service Active Filings provides reliable Wisconsin LLC formation with a focus on personal service and phone support. While their pricing is higher than newer competitors, they offer a traditional approach that many Wisconsin business owners appreciate, with knowledgeable representatives who understand Wisconsin's specific LLC requirements and annual reporting deadlines.
Best For:
Wisconsin entrepreneurs who prefer phone support and traditional business services
Pros
- Phone support with Wisconsin expertise
- First year registered agent included
- Rush processing available for Wisconsin
- Traditional, reliable service approach
- Wisconsin annual report reminders
- Basic compliance tools included
Cons
- Higher starting price than competitors
- Limited online tools and resources
- Standard processing takes 5-7 days
- Fewer modern business features
Compliance Specialists Harbor Compliance specializes in the ongoing administrative and compliance aspects of Wisconsin business ownership. While their basic LLC formation is straightforward, their real strength lies in helping established Wisconsin businesses navigate complex regulatory requirements, making them ideal for companies planning significant growth or those with specialized compliance needs.
Best For:
Wisconsin businesses with complex compliance needs or planning to expand
Pros
- Specialized in ongoing Wisconsin compliance
- Corporate services and advanced structures
- Wisconsin annual report filing services
- Business licensing assistance
- Registered agent services statewide
- Focus on regulatory requirements
Cons
- Higher fees for premium services
- Complex pricing for basic formation
- Longer processing times (5-7 days)
- Limited customer support hours
24-Hour Processing Filenow offers fast LLC formation for Wisconsin businesses with 24-hour processing - the Starter package at $49 plus Wisconsin's $130 state fee covers essentials, while the Premium plan at $199 includes valuable extras and makes them an excellent choice for Wisconsin businesses that value speed and straightforward pricing.
Best For:
Wisconsin entrepreneurs who need fast, budget-friendly formation with 24/7 support
Pros
- 24-hour order processing for Wisconsin LLCs
- Unlimited phone, email, and chat support 24/7
- Competitive pricing with two straightforward plans
- Wisconsin-specific compliance alerts included
- Electronic delivery of Wisconsin state documents
- Premium plan includes free year of registered agent ($119 value)
Cons
- No free formation option (starts at $49)
- Newer company with shorter track record
- Limited ongoing compliance features compared to full-service providers
- No expedited same-day processing for Wisconsin
Wisconsin LLC Requirements & Steps
What You Need to Form a Wisconsin LLC
- ✓ Unique LLC Name: Must include "Limited Liability Company" or "LLC" and be distinguishable from other Wisconsin businesses
- ✓ Wisconsin Registered Agent: Required by law - must have a Wisconsin street address (no P.O. boxes)
- ✓ Articles of Organization: Filed with Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions
- ✓ EIN (Federal Tax ID): Required to open a business bank account and hire employees
- ✓ Operating Agreement: Not required by Wisconsin but highly recommended
- ✓ Annual Report: Due annually with $25 fee
Wisconsin LLC Costs
- • State Filing Fee: $130 (online filing discount from $170)
- • Registered Agent: $100-$300/year (or free first year with most services)
- • EIN: Free from IRS, $50-$150 through formation services
- • Annual Report: $25 per year
- • Business License: Varies by city/county ($50-$400)
- • Expedited Processing: $25 for faster processing (1-2 days)
Wisconsin LLC Timeline
- • Name Availability: Check online via Wisconsin DFI
- • Processing Time: Several business days standard, 1-2 days expedited
- • EIN Application: Instant online or 4 weeks by mail
- • Total Time to Launch: 1-7 business days with expedited service
Why Form Your LLC in Wisconsin?
Tax Advantages
- • Pass-through taxation options available
- • Various business tax incentives
- • Low annual report fee ($25)
Business Environment
- • Central location for Midwest markets
- • Strong manufacturing base
- • Growing technology sector
- • Skilled workforce
Legal Protections
- • Strong asset protection laws
- • Charging order protection
- • Privacy for members
- • Flexible management structure
Easy Administration
- • Reasonable state filing fee ($130)
- • Fast processing times available
- • Minimal ongoing requirements
- • Online filing system
Wisconsin LLC Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to form an LLC in Wisconsin?
The Wisconsin state filing fee is $130 when filed online (reduced from $170). Additional costs include a registered agent ($100-$300/year, though many services offer the first year free), EIN application (free from IRS or $50-$150 through a service), and the annual report fee of $25. Most Wisconsin entrepreneurs spend between $130-$500 total to form their LLC, depending on which services they choose.
Do I need a registered agent for my Wisconsin LLC?
Yes, Wisconsin law requires every LLC to have a registered agent with a Wisconsin street address (P.O. boxes are not acceptable). The registered agent receives legal documents and official state correspondence on behalf of your LLC. You can serve as your own registered agent if you have a Wisconsin address and are available during business hours, but most business owners use a professional service for privacy and reliability.
How long does it take to form an LLC in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin typically processes LLC formations within several business days for standard filing. However, expedited processing is available for an additional $25, reducing the time to 1-2 business days. Online filing through the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions is generally faster and more convenient than mail filing.
What is Wisconsin's annual report requirement?
Wisconsin LLCs must file an annual report each year with a $25 fee. The report updates your business information including address, registered agent, and member/manager details. Reports can be filed online through the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions. Failure to file can result in administrative dissolution, so most formation services provide reminders to help you stay compliant.
Can I form a Wisconsin LLC if I don't live in Wisconsin?
Yes, you don't need to be a Wisconsin resident to form a Wisconsin LLC. However, you must have a registered agent with a Wisconsin street address. This is where professional registered agent services become essential for out-of-state business owners. Keep in mind you may also need to register as a foreign LLC in your home state if you're conducting business there.
What name requirements exist for Wisconsin LLCs?
Your Wisconsin LLC name must be unique and distinguishable from other businesses registered in the state. It must include "Limited Liability Company," "L.L.C.," or "LLC" at the end. You can check name availability through the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions website. Certain words may require additional approval. You can also reserve a name for 120 days for $15 if you're not ready to form your LLC yet.
Popular Wisconsin Cities for LLCs
- • Milwaukee
- • Kenosha
- • Racine
- • Waukesha
- • Madison
- • Beloit
- • Janesville
- • Wisconsin Dells
- • Green Bay
- • Appleton
- • Oshkosh
- • Fond du Lac
- • Eau Claire
- • La Crosse
- • Superior
- • Stevens Point
Ready to Start Your Wisconsin LLC?
Join thousands of entrepreneurs who've successfully formed their Wisconsin LLCs. Get started today with our top-rated formation services.