Wisconsin’s strategic central location and pro-business environment make it a compelling destination for entrepreneurs and companies. The state’s transportation infrastructure provides easy access to national and international markets, while financial incentives and resources support new and existing businesses. From March 2022 to March 2023, the state saw significant growth, with the establishment of 22,229 new businesses, including 21,154 small enterprises.
In the Badger State, small businesses represent 99.4% of all businesses. They collectively employ approximately 1.2 million people across various industries. State businesses—including corporations, partnerships, and nonprofits—are required to register with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI). As the central authority for business registration, the DFI provides a user-friendly business entity search tool. Below are the step-by-step instructions on how to navigate the search system.
Visit the Wisconsin DFI Business Entity Search Page
To begin the search, follow these steps:
- Go to the Wisconsin DFI (Department of Financial Institutions) website.
- Click on Business Services, which is located in the main menu.
- From the dropdown menu, select Services under Business Entities.
- Choose Business Entity Search to access the search tool.
Alternatively, use the direct link: https://apps.dfi.wi.gov/apps/CorpSearch/Search.aspx.
Input the Search Criteria
Depending on the information needed, users can choose either a Basic Search or an Advanced Search:
- Basic Search: Simply enter the business name or keyword in the search field and click Search Records.
- Advanced Search: For more refined results, select Advanced Search to apply filters such as:
- Business Name
- Business Type
- Date Range for Registration
Analyze the Wisconsin Business Entity Search Results
The search results will be displayed in a table titled Corporate Records, containing key information such as:
- Entity ID
- Business Name/Type
- Registered Effective Date
- Status and Status Date
Carefully review the table and click on the business name to view its detailed information.
Review the Wisconsin Business Entity Details
When a business is selected, a detailed record will be displayed. The page will show the following information:
- Entity ID
- Business Type
- Registration Date
- Current Status
- Annual Reporting Requirements
Users can also find address details, including the registered agent and principal office location. Additionally, the record will provide a comprehensive view of the business’s history, covering past annual reports, previous names, and a timeline of filing events. Several useful functions are available at the top of the record, such as filing an annual report, requesting a certificate of status, updating registered agent information, and ordering official document copies.
Further Assistance
For further assistance, the Wisconsin DFI offers several contact options:
- Phone: (608) 261-7577
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: PO Box 93348, Milwaukee, WI 53293-0348
Individuals can also visit the office in person at 4822 Madison Yards Way, North Tower in Madison. They are open during regular business hours unless it is a public holiday.
Why Do a Wisconsin Entity Search?
A business entity search in Wisconsin offers numerous benefits for entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals seeking reliable information about companies operating in the state. Below are some key reasons to utilize this essential resource:
- Confirm Name Availability for New Businesses: Verifying name availability before registering a business in Wisconsin is essential to avoid conflicts and legal issues. A unique business name will also strengthen a company’s brand identity from the outset.
- Validate Business Credentials: Verifying a business’s legitimacy is crucial when forming partnerships, extending credit, or entering contractual agreements. Checking a company’s registration status with the Wisconsin DFI (Department of Financial Institutions) helps protect stakeholders’ interests.
- Access Essential Company Information: A business entity search provides access to detailed information about registered companies, which should help users conduct research and make sound decisions.
- Analyze Market Competitors: Understanding market competition is essential for business success. Wisconsin’s entity search tool offers crucial insights into companies within major industries, including professional services, construction, and retail trade. This information allows businesses to assess their market position, identify competitors, and recognize emerging trends.
- Locate Registered Agents: Registered agents act as official points of contact for legal communications and compliance matters. Identifying the registered agent for a particular business ensures that important legal and formal documents are delivered to the appropriate party.
Who Holds Data for Wisconsin Business Entity Search
In addition to the Wisconsin DFI (Department of Financial Institutions), other state agencies oversee business operations across different sectors. The following offices maintain important records that can be valuable when conducting business entity searches in Wisconsin:
Wisconsin Department of Safety & Professional Services
The Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services safeguards public welfare by regulating various industries and professions. It manages the licensing and oversight of professionals in fields such as healthcare, engineering, architecture, and skilled trades. The department also enforces building codes, issues permits, and conducts inspections to uphold safety in construction and other sectors.
To simplify the licensing process, the agency provides the LicensE platform, which can guide applicants through occupational license submissions for sectors like health, business, and trades. The department offers the Wisconsin Credential/License Search tool through the platform to allow users to verify organizational credentials and check the status of licenses.
Wisconsin Court System
The Wisconsin Court System plays a fundamental role in interpreting and applying state laws and resolving disputes. It maintains a structured judicial process to protect constitutional rights and uphold the rule of law. The system consists of four primary levels: the Supreme Court, Court of Appeals, circuit courts, and municipal courts.
To promote public access to legal information, the Wisconsin Court System offers an online Case Search tool. This resource allows individuals to search for court records and check whether a business has been involved in legal cases.
Wisconsin Department of Children and Families
The Wisconsin Department of Children and Families is dedicated to improving the well-being, safety, and stability of children and families across the state. One of its key roles is protecting children from abuse and neglect so they can live in safe, nurturing environments.
The department also manages foster care and adoption services to help children. In addition to child protection, the department oversees financial and educational support programs. It administers the Wisconsin Shares Child Care Subsidy Program and YoungStar, the state’s childcare quality rating and improvement system. YoungStar assigns ratings from one to five stars to thousands of childcare providers based on objective quality standards.
The agency offers an easy-to-use tool called ChildCareFinder, where families can search for childcare providers and centers and compare YoungStar ratings.
Wisconsin Department of Health Services
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services enhances the health and well-being of residents across the state. As a primary health authority, it manages essential healthcare programs, supports public health initiatives, and ensures high-quality healthcare services are accessible.
The agency offers critical support programs, including BadgerCare Plus, the state’s Medicaid program, and FoodShare, which provides nutritional assistance to eligible residents. It also delivers services for individuals dealing with disabilities, mental health issues, and substance use disorders.
A valuable resource available through its website is the directory service, which helps users find licensed healthcare providers, hospitals, nursing homes, and specialty care facilities based on specific medical care needs.
Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development
The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development strengthens the state’s workforce, cultivates economic growth, and supports job seekers and employers. It provides a range of services, including job training programs, unemployment insurance benefits, and vocational rehabilitation services for individuals with disabilities to secure meaningful employment.
One of its key resources is the Job Center of Wisconsin platform, an online tool designed to connect job seekers with employment opportunities and valuable career development resources. Through this platform, individuals can access tools to do an employer search, which allows users to search for major employers in their area and view detailed employer profiles.
County Clerk’s Offices
County clerks in Wisconsin may assist with the registration of Doing Business As (DBA) or fictitious business names in certain counties to let sole proprietors and partnerships operate under names other than their legal identities. Additionally, county clerks may issue licenses and permits required for specific business activities, such as vending, peddling, and liquor sales.
They also maintain public records of business-related filings and provide access to permits, licenses, and meeting minutes relevant to economic development.
Individuals can access records by visiting offices in person or using online portals on county websites if provided.
Municipal Governments
Municipal governments in Wisconsin regulate and support business activities within their jurisdictions. They are responsible for the licensing, permitting, and maintaining of local records essential for business operations and compliance, which can be accessed either in person at government offices or through their official websites.
These offices issue business licenses and permits for alcohol sales, food service, building construction, and signage. Municipal governments also oversee zoning and land use regulations, which dictate where businesses can operate and the types of activities permitted in different areas.
Federal Agencies
Federal agencies require compliance with national laws, offer financial assistance, and provide resources that help businesses thrive in Wisconsin. While state and local governments handle many business-related functions, federal agencies often oversee broader areas such as taxation, employment regulations, environmental protection, and interstate commerce. Some of these agencies include the following:
- Internal Revenue Service (IRS): Responsible for federal tax compliance and tax-related guidance for businesses.
- Small Business Administration (SBA): Offers loans, grants, and mentoring services to small businesses.
- U.S. Department of Labor (DOL): Oversees federal labor laws, workplace safety, and wage regulations.
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): Regulates environmental compliance and sustainability practices for businesses.
- U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO): Provides trademark and patent protection for businesses and their intellectual property.
Federal agencies often have their records publicly available through portals on their websites.
Commercial Database Providers
In addition to state and federal resources, commercial database providers offer valuable tools for conducting business research and verifying company information in Wisconsin. These platforms aggregate data from public records, financial reports, and other sources to provide a broad perspective on companies and industries. Notable examples include:
- Dun & Bradstreet
- LexisNexis
- Hoover’s
- Bloomberg
- Data Axle
Although these services often require a subscription or fee, they provide valuable data for businesses looking to stay competitive and make well-informed decisions.
What Are Different Entities You Can Register in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, individuals can register a variety of business entities, each offering distinct legal structures, benefits, and requirements. Below is an overview of the primary types of business entities available in the state:
- Business Corporations: Business corporations are separate legal entities that protect their shareholders from personal liability for the company’s debts. They are suitable for ventures looking to scale and attract investors. These corporations must file Articles of Incorporation with the DFI (Department of Financial Institutions) under Chapter 180 of Wisconsin Statutes. Business corporations are typically classified as either C-corporations or S-corporations. C-corporations are subject to double taxation, where both the corporation and shareholders pay taxes on profits. Meanwhile, S-corporations avoid double taxation by allowing income and losses to pass directly to shareholders, who report them on their individual tax returns.
- Nonstock Corporations: Nonstock corporations operate without issuing shares and are commonly used for charitable, educational, and community-based purposes. They are governed by Chapter 181 of Wisconsin Statutes, must register with the DFI, and may apply for federal tax-exempt status under 501(c)(3) rules. These entities are ideal for organizations focused on serving a cause rather than generating profits.
- Statutory Close Corporations: Statutory close corporations in Wisconsin are privately held entities with fewer formalities and limited shareholders. They are best for small or family-run businesses that want to minimize compliance requirements.
- Service Corporations: Service corporations are designed for licensed professionals such as doctors, lawyers, and architects. These entities provide liability protection for their owners while allowing them to operate as a corporation, which makes them ideal for professional service providers.
- Limited Liability Companies (LLCs): LLCs offer the liability protection of corporations combined with the tax benefits and operational flexibility of partnerships. Governed by Chapter 183 of Wisconsin Statutes, LLCs are popular among small business owners for their simplicity and protection. Wisconsin allows single-member LLCs, making this structure even more accessible for entrepreneurs.
- Cooperatives: Cooperatives are member-owned businesses that distribute profits and decision-making power among members. They are especially popular in Wisconsin’s agriculture and food sectors and are well-suited for groups that prioritize democratic control and resource sharing.
- General Partnerships: General partnerships are formed automatically when two or more individuals engage in a business venture without formal registration. Although optional, filing a Statement of Partnership Authority can provide legal clarity. This structure is best suited for informal business arrangements with shared management and responsibilities.
- Limited Partnerships (LPs): LPs consist of general partners who manage the business and bear personal liability and limited partners who contribute capital but have no role in day-to-day operations. These partnerships must file a Certificate of Limited Partnership under Chapter 179 of Wisconsin Statutes. They are often used for investment ventures where limited partners seek to minimize liability.
- Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs): LLPs protect all partners from personal liability for business debts and the actions of other partners. They are commonly used by professional service providers such as law firms and accounting practices. They offer the advantage of shared management while limiting personal financial risk.
- Common Law Trusts: Wisconsin common law trusts hold and manage assets or property for beneficiaries, sometimes operating as business entities. Unlike other business types, they are governed by legal agreements and general trust principles rather than a specific statute. Common law trusts are particularly useful for managing investments or estate planning.
- Unincorporated Cooperative Associations: Unincorporated cooperative associations operate without a traditional corporate framework. They are ideal for groups seeking a less formal but still cooperative business model.
- Sole Proprietorship: A sole proprietorship is the simplest form of business ownership, operated by a single individual. It requires no formal registration with the state, though local permits and a Wisconsin Seller’s Permit may be necessary. Due to its minimal legal and tax requirements, this structure is ideal for small, single-person businesses.
Useful Additional Information on the Wisconsin Secretary of State’s Websites
In addition to business entity searches, the Wisconsin DFI (Department of Financial Institutions) offers a wide range of services and resources to support businesses, including:
Business Entity File Online
The DFI provides an online filing system so that businesses can handle important submissions seamlessly. Most filings are processed instantly, with immediate confirmation upon acceptance. To facilitate communication, a valid email address is required for each filing, as all correspondence related to the submission is sent to that address. The platform offers a variety of key services, including:
- Business Formation
- Dissolution or Withdrawal
- Annual Report Filing
- Registered Agent and Office Updates
Business Forms
The Business Forms page is organized by statutory chapters to allow users to easily select the appropriate document for their filing needs. The same form may sometimes apply to multiple chapters, and the “Statute” column helps identify the applicable legal references.
Some filings require the use of specific forms mandated by law. These mandatory forms are marked with an asterisk (*) next to the form name.
Corporation Fees
The Corporation Fees page guides businesses through the payment requirements for various filings. It includes a comprehensive fee and payment matrix organized by filing types and specific business entity types, such as corporations, LLCs, partnerships, and non-profits.
Statutes & Rules
The Statutes & Rules page serves as a vital resource for businesses seeking to understand the legal framework governing business entities within the state. This page provides direct access to Wisconsin’s statutory laws and administrative rules related to business operations, registrations, compliance, and filings.
UCC and Trademark Filing System
The UCC (Uniform Commercial Code) and Trademark Filing System supports various filing activities, including the registration and management of UCC financing statements and state trademarks. Individuals can also search for trademarks on the platform.
To access the system, users must create an account and log in. The system accepts major credit cards for payment (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express).
Report a Charitable Organization Violation
The Report a Charitable Organization Violation page offers the public a way to report suspected misconduct by charitable organizations operating within the state. Concerns include fraud, misrepresentation, improper solicitation practices, or misuse of donations. This page allows individuals to submit detailed information about potential violations so that charitable organizations adhere to legal and ethical standards.
Business Entity Frequently Asked Questions
The Business Entity Frequently Asked Questions Page provides comprehensive answers to common questions about forming, managing, and maintaining various business entities in the state. It serves as a practical resource for entrepreneurs, legal professionals, and established business owners seeking clarity on important topics and navigating the website.
One Stop Business Portal
The One Stop Business Portal is a centralized online platform that simplifies doing business in the state. The portal’s primary goal is to streamline business operations by providing a single access point for essential tasks such as registering a business, applying for licenses, filing taxes, and managing employment-related obligations. Although it is not part of the DFI website, the portal serves as a key resource through which both existing and start-up businesses can interact with various state agencies, including the DFI, the Department of Workforce Development, and the Department of Revenue.
Wisconsin Business Search FAQ
Below are some frequently asked questions to help individuals better understand the process of business entity searches in Wisconsin:
How Often Is the Wisconsin Business Entity Database Updated?
The database is updated regularly as new information becomes available and filings are processed.
Is an Account Required To Perform a Business Entity Search in Wisconsin?
No, an account is not required to perform basic or advanced searches in the business entity database. However, creating an account may be needed for certain actions, such as ordering documents.
Is There a Fee for Conducting a Business Entity Search in Wisconsin?
Conducting a business entity search is free. However, fees may apply for ordering copies of official documents, such as annual reports or certificates of status.
What Should Be Done if an Entity Is Not Listed in the Wisconsin Business Entity Database?
If an entity is not found, it may not be registered in Wisconsin. Double-check that the search phrase is entered correctly. Some types of businesses, such as sole proprietors and general partnerships (unless they have filed a voluntary Statement of Partnership Authority), may not be listed in the database.
Can Foreign Entities Be Found in the Wisconsin Business Entity Database?
Yes, foreign entities operating in Wisconsin and registered with the state are listed in the database.
What Types of Information Are Not Listed in the Database?
The Wisconsin business entity database does not include certain types of information, such as Federal Employer Identification Numbers (FEIN), the names of domestic LLC members, trademarks, tax information, and ownership details for entities.
How Can Inaccurate Business Entity Information Be Reported?
Contact the Wisconsin DFI (Department of Financial Institutions) directly for assistance in updating the record. The agency may ask for supporting documents before changing the record.
Do Searches Need to Use Exact Words?
No, the current search system is more flexible than the previous alpha sort search, which required exact formatting, including converting numbers to words and removing inconsequential words.
Are Copies of Annual Reports Ready for Order?
Copies of annual reports, which contain officer and director information, can be ordered through the Wisconsin DFI’s Online Order System.
Why Does the Search Issue a Disclaimer About Registered Agent Name Results?
Due to the variety of ways individuals may list their names as registered agents, search results may not be all-inclusive. The department provides this disclaimer to manage user expectations when searching for agent-related information.
