Incorporating in Wisconsin

For complete and current information concerning Wisconsin corporations you should go to the web site of the Office of the Secretary of State of Wisconsin. The following is not an attempt to present all you need to know when forming a corporation in Wisconsin  but rather to call your attention to just some of the basic information and requirements you may want to know as you submit information to form your corporation.

The information herein is cited from the web site of the Office of the Secretary of State of Wisconsin and the State of Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions web site. While we make every effort to ensure its accuracy, MaxFilings cannot and does not guarantee that all of the information is accurate or complete and/or current and it should therefore be independently verified.

Wisconsin corporation name:

A Wisconsin corporation’s name must contain the word "corporation", "incorporated", "company" or "limited" or an abbreviation thereof. The name must be distinguishable from the names of any other entities organized or authorized to transact business in Wisconsin as well as names reserved or registered in accordance with the state’s laws. The corporation’s name cannot contain language stating or implying that it is organized for a purpose other than that permitted under state law and its articles of incorporation.

Wisconsin corporation board of directors:

A Wisconsin corporation’s board of directors shall consist of one or more natural persons, with the number being specified in, or fixed in accordance with, its articles of incorporation or bylaws. Qualifications for directors may be prescribed by the articles of incorporation or bylaws. Directors need not be a residents of Wisconsin or shareholders of the corporation unless the articles of incorporation or bylaws so prescribe.

Wisconsin corporation officers:

A Wisconsin corporation shall have the officers described in its bylaws or appointed by its board of directors by resolution not inconsistent with the bylaws. If authorized by the bylaws or the board of directors, a duly appointed officer may appoint one or more officers or assistant officers. The same natural person may simultaneously hold more than one office.

Wisconsin corporation shareholders’ and directors’ meetings:

Other than as may be provided under state law, a corporation shall hold an annual shareholders’ meeting at a time stated in, or fixed in accordance with, the corporation’s bylaws. Annual shareholders' meetings may be held in or outside Wisconsin at the place stated in, or fixed in accordance with, the bylaws. If no place is stated in, or fixed in accordance with, the bylaws, annual shareholders’ meetings shall be held at the corporation’s principal office. Special shareholders’ meetings may be called by the board of directors or any person authorized by the articles of incorporation or bylaws to call a special shareholders’ meeting; or, in accordance with Wisconsin law, upon the written demand of the holders of at least 10% of the votes entitled to be cast on any issue proposed to be considered at the proposed special meeting. Special shareholders' meetings may be held in or outside Wisconsin at the place stated in, or fixed in accordance with, the bylaws. If no place is stated in, or fixed in accordance with, the bylaws, special shareholders’ meetings shall be held at the corporation’s principal office.

Regular or special board of directors’ meetings may be held in or outside Wisconsin.

Wisconsin taxes:

Visit the Wisconsin Department of Revenue web site.

Wisconsin Registered Agent:

Wisconsin corporations are required to have a registered agent in Wisconsin. By having MaxFilings provide you with a professional registered agent, you can be assured that all legal documents, tax documents, annual reports, and correspondence with the state and regulatory agencies will be handled promptly, professionally, and efficiently.

Start forming your corporation now:

If you’re ready to form a Wisconsin corporation with MaxFilings, you can start entering your information now. You’re under no obligation, and there is no charge until you actually place your order.

Incorporate in Wisconsin