Wisconsin Foreign LLC – Qualification and Registration


Steve Goldstein
Steve Goldstein
Business Formation Expert
Steve Goldstein runs LLCBuddy, helping entrepreneurs set up their LLCs easily. He offers clear guides, articles, and FAQs to simplify the process. His team keeps everything accurate and current, focusing on state rules, registered agents, and compliance. Steve’s passion for helping businesses grow makes LLCBuddy a go-to resource for starting and managing an LLC.

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If you already have an LLC in another state and want an LLC in Wisconsin, then starting an LLC would be somewhat different. You must register as a foreign LLC. We have here a guide on how you can qualify and register for a foreign LLC in Wisconsin.

Forming a Wisconsin Foreign LLC

A foreign LLC does not need to be a company from another country but a business formed under the laws of another state. To start a foreign LLC in Wisconsin, you need to register it with the Wisconsin Department of Revenue.

Step 1: Choose Wisconsin Foreign LLC Name

Obtain a name reservation certificate and submit it with your foreign qualification requirements at the Wisconsin Department of Revenue Your LLC’s legal name outside of Wisconsin will be listed on the application, along with the name it will use in Wisconsin. Take note of the requirements for naming your LLC.

Check name availability at Wisconsin’s business entity names and reserve your LLC name.

Step 2: Select Wisconsin Foreign LLC Registered Agent

You’ll need a registered agent to form a foreign LLC in Wisconsin and take note that a Wisconsin registered agent must have a local address. Here are three of the best LLC services on our list that will provide you with registered agents to ease your worries:

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Step 3: File Registration of Wisconsin Foreign LLC

Fill out and submit a Foreign LLC Application for Registration form online.

Include the following:

  • LLC’s full legal name.
  • A fictitious name or a DBA (only if your LLC’s legal name is not available); Attach a statement of adoption of the fictitious name signed by all LLC members.
  • LLC’s principal office and mailing addresses.
  • LLC formation state and date.
  • Registered agent’s name and address in Wisconsin.
  • Date when your LLC will start operations in Wisconsin.
  • Credit card information on the last page of the form for the $150 application fee.

The LLC cost in Wisconsin, even for foreign LLCs will differ between online filing and by mail.

Step 4: Determine How Your Wisconsin Foreign LLC is taxed

Foreign LLCs are also subjected to the Wisconsin Business Privilege Tax, and they must file LLC annual reports each year.

Note that forming a foreign LLC would be good for your business as you can legally operate in a different state thus reaching a larger market and opening more opportunities for higher profit.

After Forming Wisconsin Foreign LLC

Here are added things you need to accomplish after forming your Wisconsin Foreign LLC

  1. Obtain Business Licenses. Find the business licenses you’ll need using the Business License Search.
  2. File LLC annual reports and Business Privilege Tax.
  3. Pay State Taxes like sales tax; you’ll need an EIN for your LLC.

It is convenient plus easy to file for the foreign LLC if you are doing it online. The steps are very easy and that’s why it’s possible to go along with the steps and form the foreign LLC in Wisconsin.

Steps to Filing Wisconsin Foreign LLC Online

Time needed: 5 minutes

When you are registering for the Foreign LLC in the State of Wisconsin, you will have to submit your Application for Registration of Foreign LLC with the Secretary of State which costs $100. After approval, you will receive a Verified Certificate from the State office. We have explained the aspects you need to cover when you apply for Wisconsin Foreign LLC.

  1. Go to the Official State of Wisconsin Website

    Visit the New Business portal on the Official Wisconsin Department of Revenue website. The platform provides an easy solution to file business documents online.

  2. Online Registration

    Scroll down to the ‘Online Registration’ section. For business entity types including non-Wisconsin LLC, you need to register with the Department of Revenue. Click on the Department of Revenue link available as the first option.

  3. Proceed with Registration

    On the first page, the Tax Registration option is displayed. Select the option of ‘Yes, this is a first-time registration’ and click on “Next”.

  4. Business Type

    On the next page, select your business type from the drop-down menu. Select the option of ‘Limited Liability Company’ and confirm your business type. Next, fill in the details of your business LLC, such as ID Type, legal name, date of incorporation, and state of incorporation. Click on the ‘Next’ tab.

  5. Continue with the Application filing

    Proceed to fill in the required details on every page and press the proceed button.

  6. Review and Proceed to Payment

    Once you are done with the steps mentioned on the website and proceed, you will get to the review page. You can check the information you have filled in properly, and then proceed to the payment page.

    Once you are done, you will receive a notification confirming your application for Wisconsin Foreign LLC filed with the Secretary of State office.

F.A.Qs

What is a foreign LLC in Wisconsin?

If your LLC is formed under the laws of another state, it is referred to as a foreign LLC in Wisconsin.

Do I need a foreign LLC?

Businesses incorporated outside of the state where they operate must have “foreign qualifications” issued in the other states.

What is the main difference between domestic and foreign LLC?

A domestic LLC is a company registered in Wisconsin as an LLC. The entity type that has a physical presence in another state is a foreign LLC.

How Much Does It Cost to Register a Foreign LLC in Wisconsin

To register as a foreign LLC in Wisconsin, you can file online by paying a filing fee of $100 to the Wisconsin Secretary of State.

Unlike domestic LLCs, which are formed within the state of Wisconsin, foreign LLCs are entities that have already been established in another state but wish to operate within Wisconsin. It is important for these businesses to understand the specific steps required to register with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions in order to conduct business legally within the state.

One of the most significant costs associated with registering a foreign LLC in Wisconsin is the filing fee. This fee must be paid to the Department of Financial Institutions at the time of registration, and the amount can vary depending on the specific circumstances of each business. In addition to the filing fee, there may also be additional fees required for various certificates and documents that must be submitted as part of the registration process. These costs can quickly add up, making it important for business owners to budget accordingly.

Beyond the initial filing and registration fees, there are ongoing costs associated with maintaining a foreign LLC in Wisconsin. These may include annual report fees, which must be paid to the Department of Financial Institutions each year to keep the LLC in good standing. Additionally, there may be other fees associated with filing various documents or making changes to the LLC’s information over time. It is important for business owners to keep track of these deadlines and fees to ensure compliance with Wisconsin’s regulations.

In addition to the financial costs, registering a foreign LLC in Wisconsin can also be a time-consuming process. Business owners must complete all necessary paperwork, gather the required documentation, and comply with specific regulations set forth by the state. This process can be overwhelming for those not familiar with the intricacies of business registration, making it essential to seek out professional assistance if needed.

Ultimately, the cost of registering a foreign LLC in Wisconsin can vary depending on a number of factors. From filing fees to ongoing maintenance costs, business owners must carefully consider the financial implications of expanding their operations into the state. By ensuring they are well-informed and prepared to meet all requirements, entrepreneurs can navigate the registration process with confidence and avoid any potential pitfalls along the way.

In conclusion, registering a foreign LLC in Wisconsin can be a complex and costly process. From initial filing fees to ongoing maintenance costs, business owners must be prepared to invest both time and money into establishing their presence within the state. With careful planning and attention to detail, however, entrepreneurs can successfully navigate the registration process and set their businesses up for success in Wisconsin.

In Conclusion

Starting a foreign LLC in Wisconsin does not require a lot of documentation or tasks. However, it is always good to seek help from a professional when it comes to running your business. Get a professional registered agent and form your foreign LLC anywhere without a hassle.

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