How to Look up an LLC in Wisconsin? (A Complete Guide)

Conducting a Wisconsin business name search is recommended if you are forming a Wisconsin LLC and need to find an available name or seek information about a specific service or business entity.

With over a decade of experience as a business consultant specializing in limited liability companies, I developed a deep expertise in researching and accessing information on Wisconsin LLCs.

I have worked closely with a team of legal advisors to provide a comprehensive guide on looking up a business entity in the state.

This article will aslo share all the information you require for your Wisconsin limited liability company search.

Quick Summary

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How to Search an LLC Name in Wisconsin?

To search for an LLC in Wisconsin, search for their business entity name or name availability on the Wisconsin Business Name Search. The platform contains all registered companies in the state.

According to the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions, in 2020, there were over 60,000 LLCs registered in the state, demonstrating the popularity of the LLC structure among Wisconsin businesses.

Wisconsin LLC lookup would provide you with the following data regarding the company:

• LLC name
• Entity ID
• Status
• Wisconsin Registered Agent
• Principal Office
• Annual reports
• Filing history

You can use many options to search for an LLC in Wisconsin. These options include:

1. Using the Wisconsin Business Name Search

The Wisconsin Secretary of State has a useful platform where users can conduct a business name search, offering various methods to cater to different search needs.

a. Name Search

Go to the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions website and enter the name in the designated field and click ‘search records’.

You can also determine if your preferred LLC name is available using the 'Name Availability' option.

For more specific results, utilize the advanced search option and include additional information. Lastly, click on the desired business name to access all relevant information about the entity.

b. Entity Number Search

The DFI website also allows searching corporate records, including LLCs, by the DFI Entity ID#. This ID is unique to each entity and can be used for a more direct and specific search.

However, it's important to note that this ID differs from the Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) [1].

According to the IRS, over 10 million EINs are requested each year, highlighting the critical role these numbers play in business operations and tax administration.

Follow these steps:

• Visit the Wisconsin DFI website.
• Locate and click on 'Corporate Records' or 'Business Entity Search'.
• Choose 'Search by Entity Number' or 'DFI Entity ID#.'
• Enter the specific Entity Number.
• Click 'Search'.
• Review the displayed LLC information.
• Click on the LLC name for more details, if needed.
• Optionally, download or request additional documents.
• Contact Wisconsin DFI for further assistance if required.

2. Call the State

Calling the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions is an excellent option for direct and personalized assistance.

You can reach them directly by dialing +1 608-261-9555.

This approach is particularly beneficial for those who prefer real-time conversations or have complex questions that might be more effectively addressed in a discussion.

3. Send an Email

Emailing the Wisconsin DFI is a convenient alternative, especially if you need assistance outside regular business hours or prefer written communication for record-keeping.

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

• Prepare Your Documents
• Convert Documents to PDF Format
• Attachments must be named appropriately. Use the Form Number and the Name of the Entity as the file name.
• If your submission requires a payment, ensure that you have completed the payment through the Online Order System.
• Send your email with the attachments to [email protected].

4. Other Wisconsin Business Search Options

You can utilize other unofficial Wisconsin business search options to search for available names and existing business entities.

These alternatives include:

a. Credit Bureaus

Credit Bureaus also keep records of businesses registered with the Wisconsin Secretary of State.

These records can be accessed through the credit bureau website with any available information, including LLC name, SSN or EIN, or location.

Credit Bureaus typically charge for this service.

b. Search Engine

A search engine will enable you to locate business entities on a larger scope. You can use your preferred platform to search for a specific business entity by entering the company's name.

c. Social Media

The business name and other crucial information about a corporation or LLC can be found on their social media.

It can be a very effective way to look up business websites and other information about existing businesses. Best of all, it’s free.

Note that not all companies have an online presence.

d. Business Association

Trade associations and community groups can help you look up an LLC and all the information you need about a business. You can look at other LLCs or companies that do business in a similar field.

e. Department of Financial Institutions

If you’re ever unsure where to search for your business name, you can contact the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions to confirm that your Wisconsin LLC name is available.

The representatives help you use the business name search to perform an availability search.

LLC Name Requirements

When forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Wisconsin, it’s crucial to adhere to specific naming requirements to ensure your business name is valid and compliant with state regulations.

Firstly, your LLC name must be unique and distinguishable from other business entities already registered in Wisconsin. This means it should not be identical or too similar to any existing business names.

Additionally, the name must include the words “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC,” or “L.L.C.” to clearly indicate its business structure.

It’s also important to avoid any prohibited words or phrases that could mislead the public or imply that your LLC is a different type of entity.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your LLC name meets all legal requirements and accurately represents your business.

How to Check If A Business Name Is Trademarked in Wisconsin?

Before finalizing your LLC name, it's crucial to check if it's trademarked.

This can be done through:

1. Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions

While the primary role of the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions is to oversee business name registrations and availability within the state, they can also guide trademark concerns.

• State-Level Search: Begin by conducting a search through their database to see if your desired business name or a similar name is already in use within Wisconsin. This step is crucial to avoid conflicts with other state-registered business entities.
• Trademark Inquiry: While they may not provide a comprehensive trademark search, the staff can offer guidance on how to proceed with a trademark inquiry and what steps are necessary if you suspect a potential trademark issue.

2. United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)

The USPTO's TESS (Trademark Electronic Search System) is an invaluable resource for a more comprehensive search, particularly at the federal level.

• Access TESS: Visit the USPTO's official website and navigate to the TESS database. This system provides access to current and pending federal trademarks.
• Perform Detailed Searches: You can conduct searches using various criteria, including the name, owner, or trademark serial number. It's advisable to try different variations of your proposed business name to ensure a thorough search.

How Do I Reserve a Business Name?

Reserving a business name in Wisconsin is a straightforward process that can help secure your desired business name while you prepare to file your official registration documents.

To reserve a business name, you need to submit a Name Reservation Application to the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions.

This application should include your desired business name and the name and address of the applicant. The filing fee for a name reservation is $15, and once approved, the reservation is valid for 120 days.

During this period, no other business entity can register the same name, giving you ample time to complete your business formation process.

If you decide to proceed with registering the business name, you must file the Articles of Organization with the state within the 120-day reservation period.

This step ensures that your business name is officially recognized and protected under Wisconsin law.

Reasons to Perform a Search

Here are compelling reasons why conducting a business search is essential:

1. Legal Compliance: Before registering your LLC, ensure the name doesn't infringe on existing trademarks or business entities. The Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions' corporate and consumer services division manages LLC naming questions, requests, and corporation filings, assisting businesses in reserving names and ensuring their availability.
2. Due Diligence Before Business Transactions: Verify the legitimacy and status of a business before engaging in partnerships or deals.
3. Market Research: Understand the competitive landscape by identifying existing businesses in your sector.
4. Investment Decisions: Investors can use this search to verify the existence and status of a business before investing.
5. Mergers and Acquisitions: Companies considering mergers or acquisitions can assess the status of potential partners.
6. Brand Protection and Development: Ensuring your brand is unique and not too similar to existing businesses.
7. Litigation or Legal Research: Lawyers may conduct searches to find information about a business entity for legal cases.
8. Consumer Awareness: Consumers might check the legitimacy of a business before purchasing expensive products or services.
9. Supplier or Vendor Verification: Businesses may search to confirm the existence and credibility of potential suppliers or vendors.
10. Credit and Financial Assessments: Financial institutions or credit agencies might perform searches as part of their risk assessment.
11. Domain Name and Online Presence: Ensuring the business name is available for website and social media, aiding in digital marketing efforts.

"Submitting your Wisconsin LLC documents under a name already taken by another business entity in Wisconsin, or one that fails to comply with the state's naming regulations, could result in the rejection of your application."

- Jon Morgan, CEO, Co-Founder & Editor-in-Chief of Venture Smarter

Related Articles:

• Top Wisconsin LLC Formation Services
• Dissolving an LLC in Wisconsin
• How Much Does an LLC Cost in Wisconsin

FAQs

References:

1. https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/employer-id-numbers