How to Conduct a Wisconsin Business Entity Search

Although there is no definitive figure for all businesses in Wisconsin (including large corporations), the U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Advocacy reports that, as of 2022, Wisconsin had 462,292 small businesses. That figure represents 99.4% of all companies in the state, which provide jobs for 1.3 million people. Between March 2020 and March 2021, 17,364 new businesses opened while 13,698 closed, resulting in a net increase of 3,666.

For interested parties, Wisconsin offers several advantages for registering a business. The benefits include limited personal liability, favorable tax options, a business-friendly environment, and state and local support. Tax options include pass-through taxation for single-member LLCs to avoid double taxation. Registering a business also helps the company establish brand identity, raise capital, and enjoy legitimacy. There are also state and local programs available to help new businesses succeed, such as grants for commercial spaces.

The most common types of businesses in Wisconsin are manufacturing, healthcare, social assistance, and food services. In terms of larger industries, the state's economy relies heavily on manufacturing, agriculture (cranberries and ginseng), and tourism, with strengths in food and beverage processing, forest products (lumber and paper), and advanced manufacturing.

Allowable Entity Types in Wisconsin

Wisconsin allows several business entity types, including Corporations (for-profit and non-profit), Limited Liability Companies (LLC), Limited Partnerships (LP), and Limited Liability Partnerships (LLP). Other options are Limited Cooperative Associations, General Partnerships, Common Law Trusts, and Unincorporated Cooperative Associations. Foreign entities are also allowed, provided they are appropriately licensed to do business in the state.

The most common types of business entities in Wisconsin are Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) and sole proprietorships. Business owners frequently choose LLCs for their liability protection and flexibility, while sole proprietorships are the simplest to form but offer no protection from personal liability.

Why Search for a Wisconsin Business Entity

Searching for a Wisconsin business entity is crucial for new businesses to ensure their chosen name is available and to comply with state regulations. Existing businesses use this search for compliance and legal purposes, or to find information for business transactions. Key information available includes the entity name, type, registration date, registered agent, and official address, all maintained by the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI).

Some of the reasons to perform a Wisconsin business entity search include:

• Name Availability: A search confirms if your desired business name is already in use, preventing legal issues and ensuring a unique identity.

• Legal Compliance: You must comply with Wisconsin's specific naming regulations to avoid potential trademark infringements.

• Unique Identity: It is an essential step for a new LLC or other entity to register a unique name with the state.

• Onboarding: You can find the legal details of a new vendor or partner business to ensure you are working with a legitimate entity.

• Compliance: Search for information to ensure the registered agent and contact details are up to date, as this is the official channel for important communications.

• Business Transactions: You can find the legal entity name, type, and official address for legal or financial transactions.

• Gather Due Diligence Information: For potential partners, investors, or customers, searching for a business entity is a way to verify the legitimacy and status of a company.

• Track Your Own Business Registration: You can also use the search to find details about a business you already own, such as its registration number or filing history.

• File Annual Reports: You may also use the search function on the Secretary of State's website when filing annual reports for existing businesses.

• Obtain a Certificate: To see if a business is eligible for a Certificate of Legal Existence, which verifies it is up-to-date on all filing obligations and is often required for loans.

• Prevent Legal Issues: Searching for an existing entity helps you avoid legal battles over trademark infringement and other name-related disputes.

• Ensure Tax Compliance: A unique business name is crucial for tax purposes, as it ensures your business is correctly identified and associated with its tax obligations.

• Confirm Registered Agent Information: Use the search to find the registered agent for an existing company.

• Before Making Business Decisions: Researching a company can help you understand its history, structure, and regulatory compliance before making a business decision and jeopardizing your own company.

• Compliance: To check to see if a company is compliant with all local, state, and federal regulations.

• Name Reservations: To see if a preferred name is available to be reserved for a limited time, which can help secure a domain name and other branding elements while preparing to register the business formally.

• Before Investing: Conducting thorough due diligence when acquiring or investing in a business.

• Trademarks: Searching for registered trademarks to avoid conflicts.

How to Search for Business Entities

Finding details about Wisconsin business entities is generally easy, whether attempting to confirm a company's legitimacy, researching a potential business partner, or performing due diligence for any reason, business or personal.

To search for Wisconsin business entities, visit the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions Website and use the official Corporate Records Search to find Wisconsin business registrations.

Choose your search criteria from the following:

• Business Name: Search by the full or partial name of the business.

• Registered Agent: Look up a business using the agent's name.

• Entity Status: Filter based on whether the business is active, dissolved, etc.

• Entity Type: Refine results by corporation, LLC, nonprofit, and more.

• Registration Date: Search by the date the business was registered.

Review the search results.

What Information Can You Find with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions?

Enter your search criteria and click the "search records" button for a list of matching entities. In addition to the entity name, the search results will display the entity ID, registered effective date, and entity status. Clicking on a specific name generally provides more detailed information about the business entity.

How to Access Detailed Information

Once you click on a business name in the search results, you'll be able to view more detailed information about the entity, including, but not limited to:

• Registered Agent: Name and contact information of the agent responsible for receiving legal documents.

• Registered Office Address: The official registered office of the business.

• DFI Entity ID#: A unique identifier issued by the Department of Financial Institutions.

• Filing History: A list of all online filings associated with the entity.

• Principal Office Address: The entity's primary business location.

• Current Status: Indicates whether the business is active, dissolved, or delinquent.

Contact the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions if you need assistance navigating the Wisconsin corporate records search process.

Some additional information you can find on the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions is:

• Service Options: Online searches, business registrations, filings, document requests, and status reports.

• Name Reservations: Reserve a business name for $15 (expedited service $25 extra).

• Forms & Fees: Access forms, instructions, and full fee schedules.

• Annual Reports: View filing deadlines and submit required yearly reports.

• Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) Information: Search and file UCC financing statements.

• Notary Public Services: Resources for becoming or renewing a notary commission.

• Corporate Document Requests: Order certified copies and certificates of status.

• Resources for Entrepreneurs: Guides on starting and maintaining a Wisconsin business.

What Business Entity Information is Not Public

You can find business entity information in public records, including the business name, registered agent, principal office address, and business entity number. But much of the other private information is not public. For example, the following things are not public information:

• Member/Manager Personal Details: While the name of the registered agent and a manager might be on file, the personal information of all other members or managers is not public.

• Financial Records: Internal financial records, sales data, bank and credit card numbers, loan information, and other proprietary financial information are not part of the public business filing records.

• Employee Information: Employee personal information is confidential and not included in public business filings.

• Trade Secrets: Formulas, processes, methods, or other proprietary information that derives economic value from not being generally known to the public and is the subject of reasonable efforts to maintain its secrecy.

• Private Employee Medical Records: Medical and health insurance information.

• Customer and Employee Identifying Information: Identifying information like Social Security Numbers, driver's license numbers, and passport numbers.

• Revenue and Profit Numbers (unless a public company): Smaller companies that are not publicly traded can keep their financial data private.

How to Find EIN and UCC Records in Wisconsin

You can find EIN records in Wisconsin by using the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) business search for registered entities, checking the IRS's Tax Exempt Organization Search for nonprofits, or using the SEC's EDGAR database for public companies. For specific records, you may need to contact the DFI directly or find the EIN on the company's tax forms (such as Form 1099 or W-2), official IRS correspondence, or a business credit report.

You can also find EIN records using EntityCheck's EIN Lookup tool.

To find UCC records in Wisconsin, you can use the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions website and search for free without logging in. This search option is available under the Search menu. Choose the "Lien Records Search" screen and then select the "Debtor Name or IFS/Filing Number" to begin using the tool.

Try using EntityCheck's UCC Filings search tool to quickly and easily access UCC liens.

How to Find DBA Records in Wisconsin

To find DBA (Doing Business As) records in Wisconsin, you must contact the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI), as state law does not require sole proprietorships or general partnerships to register DBAs with the state. For other types of businesses, you can check the DFI's business name search, but remember this does not include trade names. For other record requests, you must submit a public records request to the Department of Administration (DOA) at DOAPublicRecords@wisconsin.gov.

EntityCheck Business Background Check Goes Further

An even more insightful way to search for Wisconsin business entities and access additional information is to utilize EntityCheck's powerful search engine. Search quickly and easily by business name, EIN, owner, phone number, or email address. Along with the information above, you can dig deeper to find incredibly illuminating details such as:

• 
  UCC Filings

  Discover Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) filings, showing creditors' attachment to business assets. These files provide insight into the organization's financial stability through its standing debts and resulting risk. Also find lien details, creditor and debtor information, filing and expiration dates, and collateral and asset claims.

• 
  Court Cases

  Evaluate a company's legal record to assess potential risks associated with its operations and identify any outstanding issues. Review bankruptcy filings, liens and judgments, federal court cases, litigation, and legal history of ongoing and past court cases.

• 
  Licenses

  Verify business credentials, including licenses, permits, and government certifications, as well as the educational backgrounds of decision-makers, to assess credibility.

• 
  Filing & Compliance

  Review a company's financial performance reports, DBAs (Doing Business As), and government Tax IDs.

• 
  Trademarks & Patents

  Find out what intellectual properties a company controls and review the details of any trademarks and patents it holds.

• 
  Registered Individuals

  Identify key decision-makers, registered agents, corporate officers, and leadership, even if this information is not readily available through official records.

Alternative Resources Beyond the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions

You can find abundant information with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions, but that is not your only source for business data. Other government agencies and offices also hold extensive records.

The following agencies may hold vital information about Wisconsin business entities:

• Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions: The Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) protects Wisconsin's financial system by regulating and supervising state-chartered banks, credit unions, and other financial service providers, such as payday lenders and collection agencies. It also safeguards the public by registering securities, administering the Wisconsin Consumer Act, and issuing notary public commissions. Furthermore, the DFI facilitates commerce by maintaining state business filings and supports financial capability through financial literacy initiatives and programs like the Wisconsin 529 College Savings Program.

• Wisconsin Secretary of State: The Wisconsin Secretary of State's office provides services to businesses and citizens, authenticates documents for international use, promotes economic development, and supports democracy through activities like maintaining redistricting plans and chairing the Board of Commissioners of Public Lands. The office does not administer elections, but it plays a role in civic engagement, such as assisting county clerks and clarifying student involvement in non-partisan election activities.

• Wisconsin Department of Revenue: The Wisconsin Department of Revenue explains its duties as "Administers the state's major tax laws, including the collection of individual income taxes, sales taxes, corporate income taxes, and excise taxes. Assists local governments in property assessment and financial management."

• Wisconsin Uniform Commercial Code Filing Division: The Wisconsin Commercial Code Filing Division (part of the Department of Financial Institutions) examines and files public records related to secured transactions under the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC). This includes financing statements, which act as public notice to creditors that a debtor is using assets as collateral for a secured loan. The division also handles related documents, such as consignments and terminations, and maintains the state's UCC lien system.

• State Bar of Wisconsin: The State Bar of Wisconsin is a professional association for all lawyers in the state that provides services to both its members and the public. Its functions include providing members with services such as continuing legal education, professional development, and networking. At the same time, it provides attorney referrals, public education on the legal system, and reduced-fee legal assistance to low-income residents. The organization also helps improve the administration of justice and supports law student education.

• Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance: The Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance (OCI) protects Wisconsin consumers by regulating the insurance industry, which includes reviewing and approving new insurance policies and rates, and monitoring the financial health of insurance companies to ensure they can meet their obligations. The OCI also handles consumer complaints, provides educational resources, and offers tools to look up information about agents and companies.

• Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development: The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD) supports Wisconsin's workforce and economy by connecting job seekers with employers, providing employment services, processing unemployment claims, and ensuring worker protection. The DWD offers job search assistance, training and education, and programs for specific groups, such as veterans and people with disabilities. For employers, it provides recruitment help, training grants, and other resources.

• Public Service Commission of Wisconsin: The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) regulates and oversees public utilities, including electric, natural gas, water, and telecommunications, to ensure safe, reliable, and affordable services for consumers. It approves rates, holds utilities accountable for quality standards, and protects the interests of both customers and investors. The PSC also handles issues such as back billing and payment arrangements for customers with outstanding bills, and it requires utilities to obtain approval for major projects, such as new power plants.

• Wisconsin County Register of Deeds Offices: These offices are the official repositories for public records. They record, index, and archive official public records, primarily those related to real estate, such as deeds, mortgages, and plats. They are also responsible for maintaining vital records, such as birth, death, and marriage certificates, and for providing public access to these crucial documents.

• Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources: The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) conserves and manages the state's natural resources, protects the environment, and provides public outdoor recreational opportunities. This includes managing forests, fish, and wildlife; protecting air, water, and land resources; regulating waste management; and administering state parks and other public access lands. The department also conducts research, sets policies in collaboration with the Natural Resources Board, and develops regulations to meet its mission.

How to Find the Owner of a Business Entity in Wisconsin

To find a business owner in Wisconsin, use the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions' (DFI) online business entity search for registered corporations and LLCs, which provides basic registration details such as the registered agent, but often not the individual owners.

If the business uses a trade name (DBA), check with the county clerk's office. If the business owns property, check with the county tax assessor's office for owner information. Using the DFI, you can search by business name, entity ID, or registered agent. The results typically include the business name, registration date, entity type, registered agent, and address, but may not list the individual owners.

Additional Resources for Business Ownership Info

Some additional resources for locating the owner of a Wisconsin business include the following:

• Chambers of Commerce: Local chambers of commerce typically publish member directories, often including ownership details.

• Better Business Bureau (BBB): The Better Business Bureau Serving Wisconsin occasionally publishes business profiles, company ownership information, customer reviews, and complaints.

• Other Public Records: Business licenses, real estate transactions, and court documents involving the business entity may reveal ownership information.

• Company's Website: Some business entities may list information about their owners on their websites.

• WHOIS Lookup: Perform a WHOIS search to find the owner of the business's domain name.

• Professional Networks: Check sites like LinkedIn, which may list owners and key personnel.

Types of Owners and Their Roles

In Wisconsin, as in many other states, business leadership roles include C-suite executives (CEO, CFO, etc.), operational leaders (President, COO, Manager), and specialized roles (Marketing, HR, IT managers). Leadership can also be categorized by management level (top, middle, first line).

By Management Level

• Top/Upper Management: Responsible for long-term success and includes roles like the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and President.

• Middle Management: Oversee specific departments or functions, such as a Sales or HR Manager.

• First Line/Front-line Management: Directly supervise employees, including roles like Assistant Managers or Team Leaders.

By Role and Function

• C-Suite: The highest-level executives. Examples include:

  • Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

  • Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

  • Chief Operating Officer (COO)

  • Chief Marketing Officer (CMO)

• Other Key Leadership Roles:

  • President

  • Controller

  • Director of Administration or IT

  • Product or Project Manager

Different entity structures have various roles and types of ownership. Some individuals who have control over a company may not hold a traditional role within it. Leadership is a crucial factor to understand before working with a company.

Some of the more conventional roles within companies include:

• Shareholders (or Stockholders): They own the corporation by purchasing stock, which grants them voting rights to elect the Board of Directors and influence major corporate decisions.

• Directors: Set the strategic course for the corporation, make significant decisions, and oversee the conduct of officers.

• Officers: Officers, such as presidents (CEO) and secretaries, manage the day-to-day operations of the business and are hired and fired by the Board of Directors.

• Members: Members are the owners of the LLC. They can also serve as managers or delegate management to others. Members are typically protected from personal liability for the company's debts.

• Managers: Managers, whether members or non-members, are responsible for managing the business and affairs of the LLC.

• General Partners: They manage the business affairs as outlined in the partnership agreement. General partners are entirely liable for all business debts and obligations.

• Limited Partners: Limited partners have limited management rights. Their liability is typically limited to their investment in the business, providing them with some protection from business debts.

Red Flags to Look for When Searching Business Entities

When searching Wisconsin business entities, red flags include a business status of "In Bad Standing" (IBS) or "Delinquent" (DLQ), vague or non-existent physical addresses, a lack of official government registration, or unusually complex corporate structures. Additionally, be wary of generic email addresses and a lack of an online presence or landline number. Always verify the status and information on the official website of the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI).

Some general red flags to watch out for include:

• No Professional Website: May indicate an unprofessional or less established business, though not always a red flag.

• Lack of Professional Affiliation: A business that is not affiliated with industry organizations may be less reputable or less established.

• Negative Customer Reviews: Consistent negative feedback can highlight issues with the business's products, services, or customer relations.

• Poor News Coverage: Negative press can signal significant problems, such as legal issues, financial troubles, or operational failures.

Some more serious red flags to be aware of include:

Entity Status Problems

Check the business's status on the Wisconsin DFI website. A status like IBS (In Bad Standing) or DLQ (Delinquent) is a major red flag.

Be cautious of overly complex or non-transparent corporate structures, which can be used to hide beneficial ownership.

Look for a lack of official government registration. A legitimate business will be registered with the state, and its details should be accessible through a government portal, such as the one on the Wisconsin.Gov website. If not, dig deeper.

Common entity status violations in Wisconsin include failing to file annual reports, leading to "delinquent" or "in bad standing" status, which can result in administrative dissolution. Other violations, depending on the entity type, can involve issues in childcare settings, such as improper background checks and supervision, and, for businesses in general, failure to comply with consumer protection rules or securities regulations.

Inconsistent or Suspicious Information

Be on the lookout for inconsistent or suspicious information. Mismatched details between the Secretary of State's database and other sources, like the business's website or social media, can indicate a lack of transparency or organization.

Be suspicious if the business has a generic email address (like a free webmail service), no landline, no physical address (only a PO Box), or no online presence.

Look for other signs of fraud, such as unusual account activity or unauthorized charges.

Ownership and Management Concerns

The most common employment lawsuits in Wisconsin, as in the rest of the U.S., are generally retaliation and wage-and-hour claims. Other common claims include discrimination, which can overlap with retaliation, and wrongful termination.

How a company manages operations and its people says a lot. Poor management can start at the top and reach the lowest regions, affecting all parts of the company. This is a huge red flag to watch out for.

Other red flags related to sketchy ownership or management tactics include employees or individuals associated with the company living beyond their apparent income. Frequent employee turnover or constant complaints about specific personnel are other significant concerns. Pay close attention to how the company is managed. A lack of segregation of duties or inadequate financial oversight could result in substantial financial issues.

Financial and Legal Warning Signs

Before doing business with a company, continually evaluate its financial viability. A company in financial trouble may sink you along with it if you are not careful.

Walk away if a company is unwilling to provide clear, complete financial information. Either they have accounting issues or are trying to hide something.

The most common type of business lawsuit in Wisconsin is breach of contract. These cases involve disputes in which one party fails to fulfill its obligations, such as failing to deliver goods, failing to make payments, or violating a non-compete agreement. Other common lawsuits include employment disputes, intellectual property issues, and negligence or personal injury claims from customers on the property.

Compliance Gaps

Common business compliance issues in Wisconsin include wage and hour laws, workplace safety, discrimination and harassment prevention, and tax compliance. Other problems include proper employee classification, vacation pay and tip handling, and adherence to consumer protection laws. With remote work, new challenges arise in employee privacy, data security, and remote-work-specific breaks.

Wisconsin businesses are required to comply with federal and state tax laws, and those who do not are companies to avoid.

Business Purpose and Industry Red Flags

If the search is related to a franchise, check the disclosure document for things like a lack of audited financial statements or a high number of terminations. You can also check for lawsuits between the franchisor and franchisees, as noted in the Wisconsin.Gov franchise guide.

Connections & Affiliations

A company's connections and affiliations can tell quite a story. Sometimes one person runs multiple dissolved/failed companies. Look for repeat patterns of dissolutions followed by new formations. That is a significant indicator of potential fraud. One thing to be cautious of is a company with ties to organized crime figures and politically exposed persons (PEPs). If the company makes a concerted effort to conceal its actual owner or person in charge, that should be a clear warning to stay away.

Some red flags in broader business records include the following:

Inconsistent Public Records

• Company filings don't match what's listed in:

  • Court records

  • Tax records

  • Property ownership filings

  • An example is that the registered address differs from the address listed in lawsuits or liens.

Poor Record-Keeping

• Missing meeting minutes (for corporations).

• No updated ownership/member list for LLCs.

• Lack of transparency in accounting records.

Regulatory Issues

• Fines, sanctions, or loss of licenses with state agencies.

• Businesses flagged by the Better Business Bureau or the Attorney General's office.

Unusual Patterns

• Very recent incorporation with sudden high activity.

• Foreign entities registered but not compliant with local laws.

• Shell-company indicators (multiple entities tied to the same registered agent at the same address).

Best Practices When Reviewing Business Entity Records

Utilize the best practices outlined below to maximize the benefits of your research. A business background check can take time, but it can yield a wealth of information that could help you avoid any costly mistakes.

• Cross-reference everything.

• Compare the UCC filing data with records from litigation and bankruptcy courts. Look for discrepancies between the documents.

• Check annual reports for consistency year-over-year.

• Research the owners of a company to detect possible bankruptcies, felonies, fraud, and other legal issues that could affect your business.

• Use business verification services or business background reports from EntityCheck.

• Keep in mind the context. For example, a single lien may not be alarming, but multiple filings, lawsuits, and frequent leadership turnover together signal real risk.

How to Register an Entity in Wisconsin

When choosing a business name in Wisconsin, you'll want to verify that the name is not currently in use for practical reasons and to avoid violating copyright and trademark laws.

While no single comprehensive list of business name registrations in Wisconsin is available, there are multiple databases you may search to determine if your desired business name is available.

Setting up a business entity in Wisconsin is relatively easy and generally involves the following steps:

• Verify that your business name is not already in use by searching the Name Availability Search or public records.

• File the appropriate forms with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions.

• Report your company's beneficial ownership information (BOI).

• Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS.

• Secure any necessary licensing, permits, and insurance.

• Register your business with the Wisconsin Department of Revenue.

How Much Does It Cost to Start a Business in Wisconsin?

To start a business in Wisconsin, you must file the appropriate paperwork with the Department of Financial Institutions and pay the associated filing fees.

• Initial Registration Fee: $130 online or $170 by mail.

• Nonprofit Articles of Incorporation: $35 filing fee.

• Foreign Entity Registration: Generally, it starts at $100.

• Annual Report: $10-$80 depending on business type and filing method.

When naming your new company, you must follow Wisconsin's strict naming guidelines.

Wisconsin business names must be unique and available on the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions website, and for an LLC, the name must include "LLC" or "limited liability company". There are also restrictions on certain words, such as "insurance", "bank", or "attorney", which require special approval or are prohibited, and the name cannot be misleading about the type of business.

The list of Wisconsin business naming guidelines and restrictions is as follows:

• Uniqueness: The name must not already be in use by another Wisconsin business.

• Availability Check: You must check name availability with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) before registering.

• Entity-Specific Designations:

  • LLC: Must include "limited liability company", "LLC", or "LC" at the end of the name.

  • Corporation: Must not use "LLC" and must be distinguishable from other reserved or registered corporate names.

• Restricted Words: Certain words are restricted or prohibited and may require special approval. Examples include:

  • "Insurance" is prohibited in a corporate name.

  • Words like "bank", "attorney", or "insurance" cannot be used without meeting specific criteria.

  • "Cooperative" can only be used by a cooperative association.

• Misleading Names: The name cannot contain words that suggest the business is a corporation, limited partnership, or another type of entity if it is not.

• Name Reservation: You can reserve a name for up to 120 days with a fee, which can be renewed.

FAQs

1. How do I look up who owns an LLC in Wisconsin (members vs. managers)?

   To find an LLC owner in Wisconsin, use the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) online search portal and look for the "Articles of Organization" or "Annual Reports", which may list members or managers. If the information isn't public, you may need to submit a public information request to the DFI or contact the LLC's registered agent directly.

2. How can I find a corporation's officers and directors in the state?

   You can find the officers and directors of a Wisconsin corporation on the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) website. Navigate to the Wisconsin Business Entity Search portal, select the search type, and review the results, which should include information on the corporation's leadership. For public companies, you can also find this information on the SEC's EDGAR database.

   Also, try using EntityCheck's robust business search tool to find a corporation's officers, directors, and associates, along with many other data points.

3. Are business owners' names public or private in Wisconsin?

   In Wisconsin, the names of business owners are not automatically public, but can become public depending on the business structure and where the information is filed. For corporations, officer and director names are public, but shareholders are not. For an LLC, the owner's name may be on file with the state if they filed formation documents and didn't take steps to keep the information private. However, the owner's name is not required on the formation documents for an LLC and can be protected by using a registered agent or filing in a state that allows for anonymous LLCs.

4. Where do I search official business records in the state?

   You can search official Wisconsin business records online through the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) Corporate Records search page on the official Wisconsin government website. For more historical or specific records, you can check the Wisconsin Historical Society website or contact the Wisconsin State Law Library.

5. How do I check if a business name is available or reserved in Wisconsin?

   To check if a business name is available in Wisconsin, use the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) Corporate Records Search tool to search for existing entities. If the name is not in use, you can reserve it for a fee by following the DFI's application process, which includes confirming the name's availability before submitting your payment.

6. How can I view recent filings (Articles, amendments, mergers, annual/biennial reports) for a company in Wisconsin?

   You can view a Wisconsin company's filings by searching the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) website using the company name or ID number. The DFI's Corporate Records Search portal provides access to the company's charter document filing history, including articles, amendments, mergers, and the year of the last annual report. You can also search the state's One Stop Business Portal for online filings.

7. How do I get a Certificate of Good Standing/Existence in Wisconsin?

   To get a Certificate of Status in Wisconsin, which serves a similar purpose to a "good standing" certificate, you must contact the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI). You can get a certificate of status online or by emailing the DFI. There is a fee for this certificate, and processing may take time.

8. How do I obtain certified copies of formation documents and amendments in the state?

   You can obtain certified copies of formation documents and amendments in Wisconsin by emailing the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) at DFIBankingRequests@dfi.wisconsin.gov with your request, including the company name, contact information, and mailing address. The state charges a fee of $10 for the certified copy, plus $0.25 per page of the document.

9. How do I search UCC (Uniform Commercial Code) liens against a company in Wisconsin?

   To search for UCC liens against a company in Wisconsin, go to the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) website and use their online UCC search portal. If you don't have an account, create one, then select the "Secured Party Search" option to begin searching by the company's name. For the most accurate results, search using the company's official name as listed on its public records and include any variations or previous names for thoroughness.

   Try using EntityCheck's UCC Filings search tool to find what you need.

10. What are the steps to register an LLC in Wisconsin (forms, fees, timeline)?

    To register an LLC in Wisconsin, you must file Articles of Organization with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) online ($130 fee) or by mail ($170 fee). Other steps include appointing a registered agent, choosing a business name, and submitting the required forms. Online filings take about 1 day to process, while mail filings take longer, so it's best to use the One Stop Business Portal for the fastest results.

11. What are the steps to incorporate (C-Corp/S-Corp) in Wisconsin?

    To incorporate in Wisconsin, you must name your business, appoint a registered agent, and file Articles of Incorporation with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions. For an S-Corp, you'll also need to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) and file IRS Form 2553 to elect S-Corp status after the corporation is formed. Once formed, hold an initial meeting to issue stock and appoint directors.

12. Do I need a registered agent in the state, and who can serve as one?

    Yes, a Wisconsin business is required to have a registered agent, who can be an individual or an organization, as long as they meet specific requirements like having a physical address in the state and being available during business hours. The agent's primary role is to receive official correspondence, such as service of process and annual report forms, on behalf of the business.

13. What annual reports, franchise/margin taxes, or license renewals are required in Wisconsin?

    Wisconsin requires annual reports for most business entities, including corporations, LLCs, and nonprofits, to stay in good standing with the state. These reports are filed with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI). They must be submitted annually to update the state on your business's information, such as its address, ownership, and management. Failure to file can result in administrative dissolution or the revocation of your business's authority to operate.

    Wisconsin imposes a franchise tax on corporations, a tax on net income, and separate registration fees for franchises. A corporation in Wisconsin will pay either the corporate income tax or the franchise tax, not both. The franchise tax is paid by both domestic and foreign corporations, not tax-exempt, as detailed on the Wisconsin Department of Revenue website. The corporate franchise tax is essentially the same as the corporate income tax. It applies to both domestic and foreign corporations that are not tax-exempt and are doing business in Wisconsin. A corporation pays either the franchise tax or the corporate income tax, but not both.

14. How long does state approval take in Wisconsin, and are expedited options available?

    State approval in Wisconsin can take 1 to 3 business days for online filings, but longer for mailed documents. Expedited options are available, such as for mailed filings (cutting processing time to 1 day after receipt for a fee). For some professional licenses, but processing times vary greatly depending on the specific application.

15. Do I need to foreign-qualify to do business in Wisconsin if my company is formed elsewhere?

    Yes, your out-of-state company needs to foreign-qualify to do business in Wisconsin, which involves registering with the state by obtaining a Certificate of Authority. Failure to do so can result in penalties like fines, back taxes, and the inability to bring lawsuits in Wisconsin courts.

16. What activities count as "doing business" in the state?

    While the specific definition can be complex, common indicators include having a physical presence, employees, regular client meetings, a significant revenue stream, or regularly entering into contracts within the state.

17. How do I file a DBA/fictitious business name in Wisconsin, and is county/city filing required?

    To file a DBA in Wisconsin, you must register a Trade Name with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) online or by mail, which is the only filing required. No county or city filing is necessary for a Wisconsin DBA. You will need to check the name's availability, complete the required form, have it notarized, and pay a $15 fee.

18. How do I change my company's name, address, officers, or members with the state?

    To change your company's name, address, officers, or members in Wisconsin, you must file an "Amendment" with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI). For a corporation, this is typically an amendment to the Articles of Incorporation; for an LLC, it's an amended Articles of Organization or a similar form. The process involves completing the correct form, filing it online or by mail with the DFI, paying the filing fee, and following the specific procedures for each type of change.

19. How do I reinstate or revive a company that's been administratively dissolved in Wisconsin?

    To reinstate a company in Wisconsin, you must contact the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) to request an Application for Reinstatement, which is not available online. You must then submit this application along with any required annual reports, fees, and a statement confirming that the grounds for dissolution have been resolved.

20. Do I need to file Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) with FinCEN, and how does that interact with Wisconsin filings?

    No, if your business is a domestic reporting company (created in the U.S.), you are now exempt from filing Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) with FinCEN. This change means there is no direct interaction needed between a Wisconsin state filing and a BOI filing, as the federal filing requirement has been removed for domestic entities.