Form a Corporation in Wisconsin
Everything you need to know about forming a Corporation in Wisconsin. Filing fees, requirements, timeline, and step-by-step guidance.
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How to File
Choose a Corporate Name
Select a unique name that includes a corporate designator such as 'Corporation,' 'Incorporated,' 'Corp.,' or 'Inc.' Search the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) business name database to confirm availability.
30 minutes
Appoint a Registered Agent
Designate a registered agent with a physical street address in Wisconsin who is available during normal business hours to receive legal and government correspondence on behalf of the corporation. The agent can be an individual resident or a qualified registered agent company.
1-2 hours
File Articles of Incorporation
Prepare and file the Articles of Incorporation with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions, either online through the Wisconsin One Stop Business Portal or by mail. The filing requires the corporate name, registered agent information, number of authorized shares, and incorporator details.
1-2 hours
Appoint Directors and Hold Organizational Meeting
Name the initial board of directors in the Articles or shortly after formation, then hold an organizational meeting to adopt bylaws, appoint officers, issue initial shares of stock, and handle other foundational corporate business.
2-4 hours
What's Next After Filing
Once your Corporation is officially formed, you'll want to complete these important steps:
- •Draft Corporate Bylaws — Create bylaws that govern internal operations of the corporation, including rules for director and shareholder meetings, voting procedures, officer roles, and other governance matters. While not filed with the state, bylaws are legally required under Wisconsin law.
- •Obtain EIN and Open a Business Bank Account — Apply for a federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS at no cost, then open a dedicated corporate bank account to maintain separation between personal and business finances, which is essential for preserving limited liability protection.
- •Register for Wisconsin State Taxes and Obtain Licenses — Register with the Wisconsin Department of Revenue for applicable state taxes, including corporate income tax and sales tax if selling taxable goods or services. Obtain any required federal, state, or local business licenses and permits relevant to your industry.
Advantages
- ✓Shareholders enjoy strong limited liability protection, shielding personal assets from corporate debts and legal judgments
- ✓Corporations can raise capital more easily through the issuance of multiple classes of stock and are attractive to investors and venture capital
- ✓Wisconsin corporations have perpetual existence, meaning the entity continues regardless of changes in ownership or the death of shareholders
- ✓Eligible Wisconsin corporations can elect S-Corp status to avoid double taxation by passing income, losses, and deductions directly to shareholders
Considerations
- •C-Corporations are subject to double taxation — the corporation pays corporate income tax and shareholders pay personal income tax on dividends received
- •Corporations face more complex formation, governance, and compliance requirements compared to LLCs, including mandatory bylaws, board meetings, and detailed recordkeeping
- •Annual report filings, state tax registrations, and ongoing administrative responsibilities add cost and time compared to simpler business structures
Annual Obligations
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