Whether you are starting a business or incorporating an existing one in Wisconsin, you’ll want to understand state requirements for Wisconsin corporations and limited liability companies (LLCs).
Wisconsin Corporation Formation Requirements
Cost to incorporate. BizFilings clearly outlines our fees and the state fees to form a corporation in Wisconsin. View our pricing to plainly see:
- BizFilings’ package prices. BizFilings offers three incorporation service packages from which you can choose.
- State fee for standard turn-around. Our pricing clearly shows the state fee to incorporate in Wisconsin with standard turn-around.
- Expedited turn-around. You will see the BizFilings and state fee, if any, for expedited turn-around.
- Certified copy. Our pricing also clearly displays the BizFilings and state fee, if any, for issuing a Certified Copy of the Articles of Incorporation.
Corporate name. The name of the corporation must contain the word "Corporation," "Incorporated," "Company," "Limited," or an abbreviation thereof, or words or abbreviations of words with similar meanings in another language. The word “Bank” and variations cannot be used, and use of the word “Cooperative” is restricted. The name may not contain language stating or implying the corporation is organized for a purpose other than as permitted. It must be distinguishable upon the records of the Secretary of State from other corporations, limited liability companies, and other business entities authorized to use the name in the state.
Director information. The following are Wisconsin’s requirements for directors of corporations.
- Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
- Residence requirements. Wisconsin does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
- Age requirements. Wisconsin does not have age requirements.
- Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value does not affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no P.O. Boxes) in Wisconsin. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.
Professional services businesses. Professional corporations (PCs) are allowed to be formed in Wisconsin for professional services businesses. They are called Service Corporations (SCs) in Wisconsin.