Start my DBA

DBA filing · Wisconsin

How to File a DBA in Wisconsin

In Wisconsin, a DBA is registered at the state level. Register with the Dept. of Financial Institutions (DFI) for $15.

Check my business nameSee how to file

A DBA — short for “doing business as,” also called a fictitious business name, assumed name, or trade name — lets you legally operate under a name that isn't your own legal name or your company's exact registered name. In Wisconsin, a DBA is registered at the state level.

Here's exactly where and how to register your DBA in Wisconsin — and what it costs — so your filing is accepted the first time.

How to file a DBA in Wisconsin

  1. Confirm your name is available. Run a quick pre-check on our name-search tool, then verify it against the official Wisconsin records so you don't pay to file a name that's taken.
  2. Complete the Wisconsin filing. Register with the Dept. of Financial Institutions (DFI). The filing fee is $15.
  3. Handle any extra steps. State trade-name registration is optional (common-law rights apply without it).
  4. Keep it active. Your registration lasts 10 yrs before it needs renewing — we'll remind you before it lapses.
Where it's filed: State filing — Dept. of Financial Institutions (DFI).

Two ways to file in Wisconsin

DBAform is a resource either way — do it yourself with the official link, or let us handle it.

Do it yourself — free

Use the official Wisconsin link and the details on this page to file it yourself at no charge.

Open the official Wisconsin filing page →

Done for you — via LegalZoom

Prefer to hand it off? File through LegalZoom, our recommended service (plus the $15 state fee).

File through LegalZoom →

Rather have it done for you?

Don't want to navigate the Dept. of Financial Institutions (DFI) yourself? File through LegalZoom, our recommended filing service — they prepare the paperwork and submit it to the correct office (from $99 plus the $15 state fee). DBAform may earn a commission if you use our link, at no extra cost to you.

File through LegalZoom →Read the FAQ

Wisconsin DBA — frequently asked questions

Where do I file a DBA in Wisconsin? +

In Wisconsin, a DBA is filed with the Dept. of Financial Institutions (DFI). This is a state-level filing.

How much does a DBA cost in Wisconsin? +

Wisconsin's government filing fee is $15. You can file it yourself and pay only that fee, or file through LegalZoom (from $99 plus the state fee).

Does a DBA in Wisconsin expire or need to be renewed? +

A Wisconsin DBA must be renewed every 10 years.

Does Wisconsin require newspaper publication for a DBA? +

No. Wisconsin does not require you to publish a notice of your DBA in a newspaper.

Do I have to file a DBA in Wisconsin? +

If you operate under any name other than your own legal name (as a sole proprietor) or your business's exact registered name (as an LLC or corporation), Wisconsin requires you to register it. If you use only your legal name, you generally don't need one.

Is a DBA the same as an LLC in Wisconsin? +

No. A DBA is only a registered trade name -- it doesn't create a legal entity or protect your personal assets. An LLC does both. Many owners form an LLC and then file a DBA under it.

Other states

Filing in more than one state, or not sure this is the right one? Browse every jurisdiction or jump to a popular state:

DBA in CaliforniaDBA in TexasDBA in FloridaDBA in New YorkDBA in IllinoisDBA in GeorgiaAll 50 states →

Comments

Comments are powered by Disqus.