One of the first steps to take when starting a Wisconsin business is to perform a Wisconsin Business Search. The Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutionskeeps an organized log of Wisconsin business entities that exist or have dissolved. The database is free to use and makes it easy to find existing businesses or look to see if a business name may be available. Show
How to search Wisconsin business namesThe www.wdfi.orgsite maintains a database of corporations that are registered in the state of Wisconsin. The database maintains a list of active and expired corporate records that is free for the public to search. The Corporations database is easy to navigate with the following business entity search options:
Legal entity nameThe most popular search method for Corporations and LLCs is to perform an entity name search. To perform a search, simply follow the steps below to check for name availability:
There is no need to Enter LLC, Corp, or any other entity type into the search field, and the database does not generate results for Sole Proprietorships or Partnerships. Effective dateTo search by an effective date select the “Advanced Search” filter and scroll down to the bottom of the page.
The Database will generate results for any entity registered within the intended date selected. Entity typeTo search by entity type select the “Advanced Search” filter and select the desired entity type. Registered AgentSearching by a registered agent is very similar process:
Certificate of StatusIf a business is struggling to think of a good business name, one way to generate ideas is to look through the search results list to see if any expired names could fit the business. To search by old names that are not in use go to the detailed page and select “Old Names” and enter in a search term to check for old business names. For example, if someone wanted to open up a new BBQ restaurant, they could enter “BBQ” into the search bar and generate a list of ideas that are available based on the business status results: If an expired business name in the search records is of interest, confirming that it is available is recommended by calling the Wisconsin Secretary of State in Madison at phone number 608-266-8888. Trademark searchOne thing to remember is that even though the desired business name may be available, it could have a registered trademark. Performing a trademark search through the Trademark Electronic Search System before selecting a business name could prevent headaches in the future. Next steps1. Check if the domain name is available
2. Check if the social media name is availableIn the digital age, it is essential to have a solid social media presence. Customers will often check sites like Yelp and Google Reviews to gauge what others think about a business. Some other tips on social media for a Wisconsin business entity:
4. Register TAX ID/EIN with the IRSAn EIN is a nine-digit number that identifies a business for tax purposes. Think of it as a social security number for businesses. Filing your EIN for a limited liability company (LLC) is straightforward and can be done online. Wisconsin corporations can register for a Tax ID for $79 with Swyft Filings. 5. Create a logoSimilar to selecting a good business name, businesses with a great logo impress customers, help distinguish themselves from the competition, and create a positive visual memory of your unique business services for customers. With the emergence of freelance marketplaces, it is easy to get a logo done on Fiverr in 24 hours or less. 6. Write a business planWriting a business plan can help organize business owners’ ideas and create a pathway for businesses to follow. Having a professionally written business plan also impresses investors and helps create accountability. Liveplan.com is a business plan software that can help make the process easy as they have over 500 sample plans to choose from. Businesses that form partnerships should consider having a professional operating agreement. 7. Open a business bank accountHaving a business bank account is required for businesses as it helps keep business and personal finances separate. It also helps build business credibility in the event business loans are needed to grow the business in the future. Businesses must have a business mailing address in order to open a business bank account and are not allowed to use a po box as their primary mailing address. Lili and Novo are online banks that specialize in working with freelancers and entrepreneurs. We recommend NovoBuilt for small business owners, entrepreneurs, and freelancers. 8. Setup an email accountGoogle Workspace can help set up an @yourcompany email address for as little as $6 per month. Plan on running your business wellGoogle Workspace helps with email addresses, team collaboration, productivity, and more. 9. Register a TrademarkOne of the easiest ways to file a trademark is through LegalZoom. They have options to file by themselves or pay an additional fee to have an attorney take care of the filings. Wisconsin business structure naming considerationsWhen selecting a Wisconsin business name, it is important to understand the different naming requirements for each of the different entity types. Sole proprietorships and partnershipsIn Wisconsin, sole proprietorships do not have to file with the department of commerce to begin business operations. Sole Proprietorships typically operate under a person’s name, so there is no need to perform a business name search in most situations. Like Sole Proprietorships, Partnerships are relatively easy to file and generally include all partners’ last names (ex: Smith, Jones, and Lasalle). LLCsLLCs are separate legal entities that separate owners’ business interests, debts, and liabilities from personal responsibilities. Names for LLCs are required to be filed with the Secretary of State and must be unique. A few reminders when naming LLCs:
CorporationsCorporations are fairly complex and typically used by large companies looking to issue stock and attract investors. Corporation naming considerations:
FAQsThe best way to change a business address is to notify the Department of Records and complete a change request form. Wisconsin requires business entities to file an annual report for existing business entities registered with the state. The annual report due date and paperwork can be found on the Department of Financial Institution’s website. A Wisconsin Name Reservation form needs to be filled out and mailed to the Department of Financial Institutions to reserve a Wisconsin business name. The name reservation will reserve the business name for 120 days. A DBA (doing business as), or trade name, is a fictitious business name that companies operate under for business outside of the formal LLC name. Here are a couple of benefits of DBAs:
Wisconsin Secretary of State statutes state a Corporation must maintain a registered agent and a registered office to fulfill statutory requirements. One of the main benefits of using a third-party registered agent service company is that it adds a layer of privacy between the business and the general population. The registered agent receives all documents on a business’s behalf and can mail them to you privately. We recommend Northwest Registered Agent. How do I look up an LLC in Wisconsin?Search for a Business Entity (Corporation, LLC, Limited Partnership) in Wisconsin by using the www.wdfi.org/corporations/ website. You may preform a lookup by Name or through the Advanced Search option.
How do I find out who owns a business in Wisconsin?You can find information on any corporation or business entity in Wisconsin or another state by performing a search on the Secretary of State website of the state or territory where that corporation is registered.
What is a Wisconsin DFI number?Questions? Please call (608) 261-9555, or visit Contact Us, to be directed to the appropriate area. We look forward to serving you!
What is a DFI ID number?• DFI Account Number – DFI stands for Depository Financial Institution (recipient's bank.) This message indicates that the account number, which was used in the ACH file, is incorrect. The specified recipient's account number will need to be updated before sending another file.
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