The Complete Guide to Wisconsin Business Licenses
Wisconsin does not issue a general state business license. Sellers and employers complete the Department of Revenue's Business Tax Registration, cities license specific business types, and the state licenses regulated trades and professions.
Step 1: Form the LLC
File Articles of Organization (Form 502) with the Department of Financial Institutions for $130 online ($170 on paper). The annual report is $25 online, due in the calendar quarter of your anniversary. See the Wisconsin LLC guide for every formation step.
Step 2: Business Tax Registration and seller's permit
Complete the online Business Tax Registration with the Department of Revenue. The fee is $20, covers two years, and renews for $10. It gives you your seller's permit and, if you hire, your employer withholding account. The state sales tax rate is 5%, plus county taxes. The Department may require a security deposit from some businesses.
Step 3: City licenses
Wisconsin cities license specific business types rather than every business — Milwaukee, for example, licenses pawnbrokers, alarm companies and tattoo parlors. Check your city or village clerk for licenses, zoning and occupancy rules.
Step 4: Professional and contractor licenses
The Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) licenses many professions and issues state credentials to dwelling contractors and HVAC contractors.
Hiring staff
Employers register for withholding through the same Business Tax Registration and for unemployment insurance with the Department of Workforce Development.
Checklist
| Registration | Agency | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Articles of Organization | Department of Financial Institutions | $130 online; $25 annual report |
| Business Tax Registration / seller's permit | Department of Revenue | $20 for two years; $10 renewal |
| City license by business type | Your city or village | Set locally |
| Contractor / professional credential | DSPS | Varies |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Wisconsin require a business license?
Wisconsin has no general state business license. Sellers and employers complete the Business Tax Registration, cities license specific business types, and DSPS licenses regulated professions.
How much is a seller's permit in Wisconsin?
The Business Tax Registration fee is $20 and covers two years; renewal is $10. It includes the seller's permit and, if needed, the withholding account.
What is the Wisconsin sales tax rate?
The state rate is 5%, plus county sales tax where it applies.
How much does it cost to form an LLC in Wisconsin?
The Articles of Organization cost $130 online ($170 on paper), and the annual report is $25 online.
Do contractors need a license in Wisconsin?
Dwelling contractors and HVAC contractors hold state credentials from the Department of Safety and Professional Services.