Registering a Business in Wisconsin

The State of Wisconsin does not issue "general business licenses" or a "small business licenses".However the state does regulate many types of occupations and businesses that frequently have to meet specific regulations, as well as legal, educational and examination requirements. The requirements are determined by what is being done in a business. There is no "home-based business license", although local regulations issued by your municipality usually apply to businesses conducted in residential areas.

The new Wisconsin Business Wizard can help you to easily determine your registration requirements. Using a simple question and answer format, this online program identifies state permit, license, tax and employment requirements specific to your business.

Wisconsin Entrepreneurs' Network provides integrated statewide support to entrepreneurs in all industries and development stages through one of 50 access points.

There are several types of business registrations in the state, such as:

• Trademark registration provided by Wisconsin Secretary of State
  
• Corporation registration provided by Department of Financial Institutions
  
• Business licenses and permits*.
  
• Trade industries (construction related) provided by Safety & Building Division of Commerce
  
• Professional industries (real estate,insurance, etc.) provided by Department of Licensing & Regulation
  

• Employer registration* provided by Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development
  
• Tax registration* provided by Wisconsin Department of Revenue