Wisconsin LLC formation starts with a $130 online filing fee, positioning it competitively among Midwest states while offering fast processing and straightforward requirements. The state incentivizes digital submissions with a $40 discount compared to mail filing (which costs $170), making online formation both cost-effective and efficient.
Understanding Wisconsin's complete cost structure helps you budget accurately from formation through ongoing compliance. Beyond the required filing fee, you'll encounter registered agent costs, optional professional services, and annual maintenance expenses that vary based on your business complexity and operational choices.
Wisconsin mandates specific expenses before your LLC can legally operate, with clear pricing that eliminates surprise charges during the formation process.
The $40 savings for online filing makes digital submission the preferred method, typically processing within 5-7 business days compared to 15-20 business days for mail submissions.
Wisconsin doesn't require publication or other hidden fees that catch business owners off guard in states like New York or California, making total formation costs predictable and manageable.
Beyond Wisconsin's mandatory requirements, several optional expenses can streamline your formation process or provide ongoing operational benefits, though they're not legally required for basic LLC operation.
Wisconsin attorneys typically charge $1,500-$4,000 for comprehensive LLC formation packages including custom operating agreements, compliance guidance, and tax planning consultation. For simpler formations, basic legal packages start around $500-$750.
CPA consultations cost $150-$500 and often prevent costly tax mistakes during your first year of operations, particularly valuable for multi-member LLCs or businesses expecting significant revenue.
Online formation companies offer middle-ground pricing with basic packages starting at $0 in service fees (plus Wisconsin's $130 state fee), while premium services, including registered agent and compliance tracking, add $200-$400 annually.
Several optional filings may benefit your business depending on your operational needs and timeline requirements:
Wisconsin cities and counties impose separate business licensing requirements, typically ranging from $50-$200 annually, varying by industry and location. Professional services may require additional state licensing through regulatory boards, adding ongoing compliance costs beyond basic LLC maintenance.
After formation, recurring expenses maintain your Wisconsin LLC's good standing and legal protections, with reasonable fees compared to high-cost states like California or Massachusetts. These obligations include:
Wisconsin requires annual reports filed online by the anniversary date of formation, costing $25 for electronic submission or $40 by mail. Late filing triggers $10 penalties plus interest, with extended non-compliance leading to administrative dissolution.
Professional registered agent services typically renew annually at $100-$300, providing privacy protection and guaranteed document receipt. Self-service costs nothing but requires maintaining a Wisconsin address and business-hour availability.
Wisconsin LLCs are pass-through entities, so business income flows to members' personal tax returns subject to Wisconsin's graduated individual income tax rates. Multi-member LLCs file informational returns while members report income individually.
Local business license renewals, professional liability insurance, and accounting services create additional recurring costs varying by industry and business complexity. Professional services may require continuing education and licensing renewals through state regulatory boards.
Are there any hidden fees when forming a Wisconsin LLC?
Most surprises come from convenience services, not state requirements. This includes commercial agent fees and expedited filing services.
Can I get refunds if my Wisconsin LLC filing is rejected?
Wisconsin filing fees are generally non-refundable once processing begins. Double-check all information before submitting to avoid rejections.
How do Wisconsin LLC costs compare to neighboring states?
Wisconsin's $130 online formation fee and $25 online annual report make it moderately priced compared to surrounding states in the Midwest region.
Can I serve as my own registered agent?
Yes, if you have a Wisconsin street address and can maintain availability during business hours. It's free and perfectly legal.
Discern automates Wisconsin LLC formation filings, provides professional registered agent services, and manages annual report deadlines across all 51 jurisdictions from a single platform.
Ready to eliminate formation cost uncertainty while building a foundation for multi-state growth? Book a demo with Discern today.
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