You might need to register your DBA (Doing Business As) if you’re launching a business in Wisconsin. Using a DBA, which is a legal designation, enables you to conduct business under a name other than your given one. A step-by-step tutorial for obtaining a DBA in Wisconsin is provided below.
The first step is to select a business name. You must decide on a business name before you can register a DBA in Wisconsin. The name must be distinct and not being used by another company in the state. The website of the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions allows you to look for already registered business names.
Step 2: Determine whether a DBA is necessary Not all businesses in Wisconsin are required to register their DBAs. A DBA is not required for sole proprietors who use their own legal name as their company name. However, you must submit a DBA application if you are doing business under a different name.
Step 3: Apply for a DBA You must fill out and submit a paperwork to the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions in order to register a DBA in Wisconsin. The form can be submitted online or by mail. There is a $25 filing fee.
Within 30 days of filing, you must print a notice in a neighborhood newspaper announcing the approval of your DBA registration. Over the course of two weeks, the notification must be published three times. The Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions will need proof of publication.
A DBA and an LLC (Limited Liability Company) are not the same thing. Simply said, a DBA is a registration that enables you to conduct business under a different name. An LLC is a type of business entity that shields owners from liabilities. It offers greater security than a DBA because it is a separate legal entity from the owners.
Small firms that desire to conduct business under a different name may find a DBA to be a viable alternative. It’s an easy and affordable approach to create a brand for your company. A DBA does not, however, shield the owners from liabilities. Instead of creating a corporation, you might want to think about incorporating an LLC if liability is a worry.
If you run a business in Wisconsin under a name other than your legal name, you must file a DBA. But you don’t have to submit a DBA application if you’re a sole owner using your own legal name as your company name.
Yes, you can register a DBA in Wisconsin online. If you’d rather, you may also mail your paperwork in. There is a $25 filing fee.
Choosing a business structure, registering your company with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions, acquiring the required licenses and permits, and filing taxes are all phases in the process of starting a small business in Wisconsin. Additionally, you might need to file a DBA (Doing Business As) with the county clerk’s office where your business is located if you intend to conduct business under a name different than your legal name. You might refer to the article titled “How to Get a DBA in Wisconsin: A Step-by-Step Guide” for a more thorough explanation.