This state overview includes local filing rules. Choose your entity below, then confirm the office for the location where you do business. A county example or fee in the sources is not a statewide filing destination or a quote for your selected office.
If your location is not listed, use the local authority described in the entity rules below. We do not have a reviewed local answer for every location.
Register of Deeds of the county where the principal place of business is located
Registration of Firm Names
Any person who engages in or advertises any mercantile or commission business under a name purporting or appearing to be a corporate name, with the intent to obtain credit, and which name does not disclose the real name of one or more of the persons engaged in the business, without first recording in the office of the register of deeds of the county in which his or her principal place of business is located, a verified statement disclosing and showing the name of all persons using the name, shall be fined not more than $1,000 or imprisoned in the county jail for not more than one year.
Trademarks or tradenames applications may be filed with the Trademarks Bureau by an individual or any type of business organization or entity, provided the mark is not currently registered with the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI). Please note, however, that filing a tradename for an entity is NOT the same as registering that entity to do business in Wisconsin, and it does not reserve the entity name for exclusive use within the state’s business records system. To create a new entity, to register an existing entity to do business in this state, or to reserve an entity name in the state’s business records system, see the Business Entities section on this website.
### Is a trademark registration required in Wisconsin? No, the registration is not required, but is a good way to notify the public of the use of a certain name or mark. Because it is not required the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) has only a partial listing of marks in use by businesses/individuals operating in Wisconsin.
Trademarks or tradenames applications may be filed with the Trademarks Bureau by an individual or any type of business organization or entity, provided the mark is not currently registered with the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI).
Any use of corporate name may be amended by recording a verified statement clearly setting forth all changes and signed by all parties concerned with the register of deeds where the original declaration was filed or recorded.
A discontinuance of use of corporate name signed by all interested parties and verified may be recorded with the register of deeds where the original declaration was filed or recorded.
134.17(2))(2)Any use of corporate name may be amended by recording a verified statement clearly setting forth all changes and signed by all parties concerned with the register of deeds where the original declaration was filed or recorded.
134.17(3))(3)A discontinuance of use of corporate name signed by all interested parties and verified may be recorded with the register of deeds where the original declaration was filed or recorded.
Cancel from his or her register a registration of a mark under this section upon the request of the registrant of the mark. The department may not charge a fee for canceling a registration under this paragraph.
132.01(7)(b)(b))(b) Cancel from his or her register a registration of a mark under this section upon the request of the registrant of the mark. The department may not charge a fee for canceling a registration under this paragraph.
That law makes it a crime, punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 or up to one year in the county jail, to engage in or advertise a mercantile or commission business under a name that appears to be a corporate name, with the intent to obtain credit, without disclosing the real names of the people behind it, unless a verified statement is first recorded with the register of deeds of the county where the principal place of business is located.
A registration may be renewed for 10-year periods upon application to the department and payment of the same fee required for a registration. Application for renewal shall be made within 6 months before the expiration of the 10-year period specified in this paragraph.
132.01(6)(b)(b))(b) A registration recorded under this section or s. 132.04 or 132.11 on or after May 1, 1990, is effective for 10 years. A registration may be renewed for 10-year periods upon application to the department and payment of the same fee required for a registration. Application for renewal shall be made within 6 months before the expiration of the 10-year period specified in this paragraph.
County register of deeds offices — Dane County publishes a representative set of instructions — offer firm name registration for sole proprietorships, general partnerships, and associations.
Any person who engages in or advertises any mercantile or commission business under a name purporting or appearing to be a corporate name, with the intent to obtain credit, and which name does not disclose the real name of one or more of the persons engaged in the business, without first recording in the office of the register of deeds of the county in which his or her principal place of business is located, a verified statement disclosing and showing the name of all persons using the name, shall be fined not more than $1,000 or imprisoned in the county jail for not more than one year.
Register of Deeds of the county where the principal place of business is located
If your firm is a corporation or limited partnership, you need to register it with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) Corporations Section.
Register of Deeds of the county where the principal place of business is located
You may register your firm name with the Register of Deeds if your firm is a sole proprietorship, general partnership, or association.
If your firm is a corporation or limited partnership, you need to register it with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) Corporations Section.
Trademarks or tradenames applications may be filed with the Trademarks Bureau by an individual or any type of business organization or entity, provided the mark is not currently registered with the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI). Please note, however, that filing a tradename for an entity is NOT the same as registering that entity to do business in Wisconsin, and it does not reserve the entity name for exclusive use within the state’s business records system. To create a new entity, to register an existing entity to do business in this state, or to reserve an entity name in the state’s business records system, see the Business Entities section on this website.
Official destination title: DFI Trademarks Frequently Asked Questions
### Is a trademark registration required in Wisconsin? No, the registration is not required, but is a good way to notify the public of the use of a certain name or mark. Because it is not required the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) has only a partial listing of marks in use by businesses/individuals operating in Wisconsin.
Is a trademark registration required in Wisconsin? No, the registration is not required, but is a good way to notify the public of the use of a certain name or mark.
Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions, Division of Corporate and Consumer Services, 4822 Madison Yards Way, North Tower, Madison, WI 53705
Trademarks or tradenames applications may be filed with the Trademarks Bureau by an individual or any type of business organization or entity, provided the mark is not currently registered with the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI).
Separately, the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) runs a voluntary tradename and trademark registration under Chapter 132 of the statutes.
Trademarks or tradenames applications may be filed with the Trademarks Bureau by an individual or any type of business organization or entity, provided the mark is not currently registered with the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI). Please note, however, that filing a tradename for an entity is NOT the same as registering that entity to do business in Wisconsin, and it does not reserve the entity name for exclusive use within the state’s business records system. To create a new entity, to register an existing entity to do business in this state, or to reserve an entity name in the state’s business records system, see the Business Entities section on this website.
Official destination title: DFI Trademarks Frequently Asked Questions
DFI's own FAQ answers the question "Is a trademark registration required in Wisconsin?"
Any person who engages in or advertises any mercantile or commission business under a name purporting or appearing to be a corporate name, with the intent to obtain credit, and which name does not disclose the real name of one or more of the persons engaged in the business, without first recording in the office of the register of deeds of the county in which his or her principal place of business is located, a verified statement disclosing and showing the name of all persons using the name, shall be fined not more than $1,000 or imprisoned in the county jail for not more than one year.
If your firm is a corporation or limited partnership, you need to register it with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) Corporations Section.
You may register your firm name with the Register of Deeds if your firm is a sole proprietorship, general partnership, or association.
If your firm is a corporation or limited partnership, you need to register it with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) Corporations Section.
### Is a trademark registration required in Wisconsin? No, the registration is not required, but is a good way to notify the public of the use of a certain name or mark. Because it is not required the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) has only a partial listing of marks in use by businesses/individuals operating in Wisconsin.
Trademarks or tradenames applications may be filed with the Trademarks Bureau by an individual or any type of business organization or entity, provided the mark is not currently registered with the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI). Please note, however, that filing a tradename for an entity is NOT the same as registering that entity to do business in Wisconsin, and it does not reserve the entity name for exclusive use within the state’s business records system. To create a new entity, to register an existing entity to do business in this state, or to reserve an entity name in the state’s business records system, see the Business Entities section on this website.
Is a trademark registration required in Wisconsin? No, the registration is not required, but is a good way to notify the public of the use of a certain name or mark.
Trademarks or tradenames applications may be filed with the Trademarks Bureau by an individual or any type of business organization or entity, provided the mark is not currently registered with the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI).
with "No," and stresses that registration does not create ownership — rights come from usage.
Any person who engages in or advertises any mercantile or commission business under a name purporting or appearing to be a corporate name, with the intent to obtain credit, and which name does not disclose the real name of one or more of the persons engaged in the business, without first recording in the office of the register of deeds of the county in which his or her principal place of business is located, a verified statement disclosing and showing the name of all persons using the name, shall be fined not more than $1,000 or imprisoned in the county jail for not more than one year.
If your firm is a corporation or limited partnership, you need to register it with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) Corporations Section.
You may register your firm name with the Register of Deeds if your firm is a sole proprietorship, general partnership, or association.
If your firm is a corporation or limited partnership, you need to register it with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) Corporations Section.
### Is a trademark registration required in Wisconsin? No, the registration is not required, but is a good way to notify the public of the use of a certain name or mark. Because it is not required the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) has only a partial listing of marks in use by businesses/individuals operating in Wisconsin.
Trademarks or tradenames applications may be filed with the Trademarks Bureau by an individual or any type of business organization or entity, provided the mark is not currently registered with the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI). Please note, however, that filing a tradename for an entity is NOT the same as registering that entity to do business in Wisconsin, and it does not reserve the entity name for exclusive use within the state’s business records system. To create a new entity, to register an existing entity to do business in this state, or to reserve an entity name in the state’s business records system, see the Business Entities section on this website.
Is a trademark registration required in Wisconsin? No, the registration is not required, but is a good way to notify the public of the use of a certain name or mark.
Trademarks or tradenames applications may be filed with the Trademarks Bureau by an individual or any type of business organization or entity, provided the mark is not currently registered with the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI).
Corporations and limited partnerships are directed to DFI rather than the county register of deeds.
Any person who engages in or advertises any mercantile or commission business under a name purporting or appearing to be a corporate name, with the intent to obtain credit, and which name does not disclose the real name of one or more of the persons engaged in the business, without first recording in the office of the register of deeds of the county in which his or her principal place of business is located, a verified statement disclosing and showing the name of all persons using the name, shall be fined not more than $1,000 or imprisoned in the county jail for not more than one year.
If your firm is a corporation or limited partnership, you need to register it with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) Corporations Section.
You may register your firm name with the Register of Deeds if your firm is a sole proprietorship, general partnership, or association.
If your firm is a corporation or limited partnership, you need to register it with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) Corporations Section.
### Is a trademark registration required in Wisconsin? No, the registration is not required, but is a good way to notify the public of the use of a certain name or mark. Because it is not required the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) has only a partial listing of marks in use by businesses/individuals operating in Wisconsin.
Trademarks or tradenames applications may be filed with the Trademarks Bureau by an individual or any type of business organization or entity, provided the mark is not currently registered with the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI). Please note, however, that filing a tradename for an entity is NOT the same as registering that entity to do business in Wisconsin, and it does not reserve the entity name for exclusive use within the state’s business records system. To create a new entity, to register an existing entity to do business in this state, or to reserve an entity name in the state’s business records system, see the Business Entities section on this website.
Is a trademark registration required in Wisconsin? No, the registration is not required, but is a good way to notify the public of the use of a certain name or mark.
Trademarks or tradenames applications may be filed with the Trademarks Bureau by an individual or any type of business organization or entity, provided the mark is not currently registered with the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI).
Search existing names
Before filing, check the authority’s own records for the name you plan to use. This guide links to the official search; it does not run, proxy, or store searches.
Local filing route: confirm the county, parish, city or town office identified by the authority and applicability below. The following forms, fees and office details are references from the cited jurisdiction; confirm they apply to your location before using them. Check reviewed local filing choices →
Required: Yes, when the documented conditions apply.Source: docs.legis.wisconsin.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptAny person who engages in or advertises any mercantile or commission business under a name purporting or appearing to be a corporate name, with the intent to obtain credit, and which name does not disclose the real name of one or more of the persons engaged in the business, without first recording in the office of the register of deeds of the county in which his or her principal place of business is located, a verified statement disclosing and showing the name of all persons using the name, shall be fined not more than $1,000 or imprisoned in the county jail for not more than one year.
Authority: Register of Deeds of the county where the principal place of business is locatedSource: docs.legis.wisconsin.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptRegister of Deeds of the county where the principal place of business is located
When this route applies: Any person who engages in or advertises any mercantile or commission business under a name purporting or appearing to be a corporate name, with the intent to obtain credit, and which name does not disclose the real name of one or more of the persons engaged in the business, without first recording in the office of the register of deeds of the county in which his or her principal place of business is located, a verified statement disclosing and showing the name of all persons using the name, shall be fined not more than $1,000 or imprisoned in the county jail for not more than one year.Source: docs.legis.wisconsin.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptAny person who engages in or advertises any mercantile or commission business under a name purporting or appearing to be a corporate name, with the intent to obtain credit, and which name does not disclose the real name of one or more of the persons engaged in the business, without first recording in the office of the register of deeds of the county in which his or her principal place of business is located, a verified statement disclosing and showing the name of all persons using the name, shall be fined not more than $1,000 or imprisoned in the county jail for not more than one year.
Local filing reference — Official form: Registration of Firm NamesSource: docs.legis.wisconsin.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptRegistration of Firm Names
Local filing reference — Form destination: Not confirmed in this guide.
Local filing reference — Online filing link: Not confirmed in this guide.
Local filing reference — Effective duration: Not confirmed in this guide.
Local filing reference — Renewal: Not confirmed in this guide.
Local filing reference — Changes or amendments: Any use of corporate name may be amended by recording a verified statement clearly setting forth all changes and signed by all parties concerned with the register of deeds where the original declaration was filed or recorded.Source: docs.legis.wisconsin.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptAny use of corporate name may be amended by recording a verified statement clearly setting forth all changes and signed by all parties concerned with the register of deeds where the original declaration was filed or recorded.
Local filing reference — Abandonment or cancellation: A discontinuance of use of corporate name signed by all interested parties and verified may be recorded with the register of deeds where the original declaration was filed or recorded.Source: docs.legis.wisconsin.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptA discontinuance of use of corporate name signed by all interested parties and verified may be recorded with the register of deeds where the original declaration was filed or recorded.
Local filing reference — Important exclusions: If your firm is a corporation or limited partnership, you need to register it with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) Corporations Section.Source: docs.legis.wisconsin.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptIf your firm is a corporation or limited partnership, you need to register it with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) Corporations Section.
Local filing reference — Mail filing: Not confirmed in this guide.
Local filing reference — In-person filing: Not confirmed in this guide.
General partnership
Local filing route: confirm the county, parish, city or town office identified by the authority and applicability below. The following forms, fees and office details are references from the cited jurisdiction; confirm they apply to your location before using them. Check reviewed local filing choices →
Required: Yes, when the documented conditions apply.Source: docs.legis.wisconsin.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptAny person who engages in or advertises any mercantile or commission business under a name purporting or appearing to be a corporate name, with the intent to obtain credit, and which name does not disclose the real name of one or more of the persons engaged in the business, without first recording in the office of the register of deeds of the county in which his or her principal place of business is located, a verified statement disclosing and showing the name of all persons using the name, shall be fined not more than $1,000
Authority: Register of Deeds of the county where the principal place of business is locatedSource: rod.danecounty.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptRegister of Deeds of the county where the principal place of business is located
When this route applies: You may register your firm name with the Register of Deeds if your firm is a sole proprietorship, general partnership, or association.Source: rod.danecounty.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptYou may register your firm name with the Register of Deeds if your firm is a sole proprietorship, general partnership, or association.
Local filing reference — Official form: Registration of Firm NamesSource: rod.danecounty.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptRegistration of Firm Names
Local filing reference — Form destination: Not confirmed in this guide.
Local filing reference — Online filing link: Not confirmed in this guide.
Local filing reference — Effective duration: Not confirmed in this guide.
Local filing reference — Renewal: Not confirmed in this guide.
Local filing reference — Changes or amendments: Any use of corporate name may be amended by recording a verified statement clearly setting forth all changes and signed by all parties concerned with the register of deeds where the original declaration was filed or recorded.Source: docs.legis.wisconsin.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerpt134.17(2))(2)Any use of corporate name may be amended by recording a verified statement clearly setting forth all changes and signed by all parties concerned with the register of deeds where the original declaration was filed or recorded.
Local filing reference — Abandonment or cancellation: A discontinuance of use of corporate name signed by all interested parties and verified may be recorded with the register of deeds where the original declaration was filed or recorded.Source: docs.legis.wisconsin.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerpt134.17(3))(3)A discontinuance of use of corporate name signed by all interested parties and verified may be recorded with the register of deeds where the original declaration was filed or recorded.
Local filing reference — Important exclusions: If your firm is a corporation or limited partnership, you need to register it with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) Corporations Section.Source: rod.danecounty.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptIf your firm is a corporation or limited partnership, you need to register it with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) Corporations Section.
Local filing reference — Mail filing: Not confirmed in this guide.
Local filing reference — In-person filing: Not confirmed in this guide.
LLC
Required: No, within the scope described below.Source: dfi.wi.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptIs a trademark registration required in Wisconsin?
No, the registration is not required, but is a good way to notify the public of the use of a certain name or mark.
Authority: Department of Financial Institutions (DFI)Source: dfi.wi.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptTrademarks or tradenames applications may be filed with the Trademarks Bureau by an individual or any type of business organization or entity, provided the mark is not currently registered with the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI). Please note, however, that filing a tradename for an entity is NOT the same as registering that entity to do business in Wisconsin, and it does not reserve the entity name for exclusive use within the state’s business records system. To create a new entity, to register an existing entity to do business in this state, or to reserve an entity name in the state’s business records system, see the Business Entities section on this website.
When this route applies: Is a trademark registration required in Wisconsin? No, the registration is not required, but is a good way to notify the public of the use of a certain name or mark.Source: dfi.wi.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerpt### Is a trademark registration required in Wisconsin? No, the registration is not required, but is a good way to notify the public of the use of a certain name or mark. Because it is not required the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) has only a partial listing of marks in use by businesses/individuals operating in Wisconsin.
Official form: Not confirmed in this guide.
Form destination: Not confirmed in this guide.
Online filing link: https://wims.dfi.wi.gov/Source: wims.dfi.wi.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptOfficial destination title: Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions
Effective duration: The registration expires 10 years from the date of registrationSource: dfi.wi.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptThe registration expires 10 years from the date of registration unless you renew the registration within six months of the date of expiration.
Renewal: A registration may be renewed for 10-year periods upon application to the department and payment of the same fee required for a registration. Application for renewal shall be made within 6 months before the expiration of the 10-year period specified in this paragraph.Source: docs.legis.wisconsin.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptA registration may be renewed for 10-year periods upon application to the department and payment of the same fee required for a registration. Application for renewal shall be made within 6 months before the expiration of the 10-year period specified in this paragraph.
Changes or amendments: Cancellations and amendments are free to file by authorized parties.Source: dfi.wi.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptCancellations and amendments are free to file by authorized parties.
Abandonment or cancellation: Cancel from his or her register a registration of a mark under this section upon the request of the registrant of the mark. The department may not charge a fee for canceling a registration under this paragraph.Source: docs.legis.wisconsin.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptCancel from his or her register a registration of a mark under this section upon the request of the registrant of the mark. The department may not charge a fee for canceling a registration under this paragraph.
Important exclusions: Please note, however, that filing a tradename for an entity is NOT the same as registering that entity to do business in Wisconsin, and it does not reserve the entity name for exclusive use within the state’s business records system.Source: dfi.wi.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptTrademarks or tradenames applications may be filed with the Trademarks Bureau by an individual or any type of business organization or entity, provided the mark is not currently registered with the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI). Please note, however, that filing a tradename for an entity is NOT the same as registering that entity to do business in Wisconsin, and it does not reserve the entity name for exclusive use within the state’s business records system. To create a new entity, to register an existing entity to do business in this state, or to reserve an entity name in the state’s business records system, see the Business Entities section on this website.
Mail filing: Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions
Division of Corporate and Consumer Services
PO Box 7847
Madison, WI 53707-7847Source: dfi.wi.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerpt**Mailing Address:**
Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions
Division of Corporate and Consumer Services
PO Box 7847
Madison, WI 53707-7847
In-person filing: Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions Division of Corporate and Consumer Services 4822 Madison Yards Way, North Tower Madison, WI 53705Source: dfi.wi.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptWisconsin Department of Financial Institutions Division of Corporate and Consumer Services 4822 Madison Yards Way, North Tower Madison, WI 53705
Corporation
Required: No, within the scope described below.Source: dfi.wi.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptIs a trademark registration required in Wisconsin? No, the registration is not required, but is a good way to notify the public of the use of a certain name or mark.
Authority: Department of Financial Institutions (DFI)Source: dfi.wi.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptTrademarks or tradenames applications may be filed with the Trademarks Bureau by an individual or any type of business organization or entity, provided the mark is not currently registered with the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI). Please note, however, that filing a tradename for an entity is NOT the same as registering that entity to do business in Wisconsin, and it does not reserve the entity name for exclusive use within the state’s business records system. To create a new entity, to register an existing entity to do business in this state, or to reserve an entity name in the state’s business records system, see the Business Entities section on this website.
When this route applies: Trademarks or tradenames applications may be filed with the Trademarks Bureau by an individual or any type of business organization or entity, provided the mark is not currently registered with the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI).Source: dfi.wi.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptTrademarks or tradenames applications may be filed with the Trademarks Bureau by an individual or any type of business organization or entity, provided the mark is not currently registered with the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI).
Official form: Not confirmed in this guide.
Form destination: Not confirmed in this guide.
Online filing link: https://wims.dfi.wi.gov/Source: wims.dfi.wi.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptOfficial destination title: Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions
Effective duration: The registration expires 10 years from the date of registrationSource: dfi.wi.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptThe registration expires 10 years from the date of registration unless you renew the registration within six months of the date of expiration.
Renewal: A registration may be renewed for 10-year periods upon application to the department and payment of the same fee required for a registration. Application for renewal shall be made within 6 months before the expiration of the 10-year period specified in this paragraph.Source: docs.legis.wisconsin.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerpt132.01(6)(b)(b))(b) A registration recorded under this section or s. 132.04 or 132.11 on or after May 1, 1990, is effective for 10 years. A registration may be renewed for 10-year periods upon application to the department and payment of the same fee required for a registration. Application for renewal shall be made within 6 months before the expiration of the 10-year period specified in this paragraph.
Changes or amendments: Trademark Amendment - Changes to Address, Contact information, Code FreeSource: dfi.wi.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptTrademark Amendment - Changes to Address, Contact information, Code Free
Abandonment or cancellation: Cancel from his or her register a registration of a mark under this section upon the request of the registrant of the mark. The department may not charge a fee for canceling a registration under this paragraph.Source: docs.legis.wisconsin.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerpt132.01(7)(b)(b))(b) Cancel from his or her register a registration of a mark under this section upon the request of the registrant of the mark. The department may not charge a fee for canceling a registration under this paragraph.
Important exclusions: Please note, however, that filing a tradename for an entity is NOT the same as registering that entity to do business in Wisconsin, and it does not reserve the entity name for exclusive use within the state’s business records system.Source: dfi.wi.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptTrademarks or tradenames applications may be filed with the Trademarks Bureau by an individual or any type of business organization or entity, provided the mark is not currently registered with the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI). Please note, however, that filing a tradename for an entity is NOT the same as registering that entity to do business in Wisconsin, and it does not reserve the entity name for exclusive use within the state’s business records system. To create a new entity, to register an existing entity to do business in this state, or to reserve an entity name in the state’s business records system, see the Business Entities section on this website.
Mail filing: Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions
Division of Corporate and Consumer Services
PO Box 7847
Madison, WI 53707-7847Source: dfi.wi.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerpt**Mailing Address:**
Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions
Division of Corporate and Consumer Services
PO Box 7847
Madison, WI 53707-7847
In-person filing: Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions, Division of Corporate and Consumer Services, 4822 Madison Yards Way, North Tower, Madison, WI 53705Source: dfi.wi.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptWisconsin Department of Financial Institutions, Division of Corporate and Consumer Services, 4822 Madison Yards Way, North Tower, Madison, WI 53705
How to file through the authority
For a sole proprietorship, general partnership, or association, the filing path runs through the register of deeds in the county of the principal place of business.
Any person who engages in or advertises any mercantile or commission business under a name purporting or appearing to be a corporate name, with the intent to obtain credit, and which name does not disclose the real name of one or more of the persons engaged in the business, without first recording in the office of the register of deeds of the county in which his or her principal place of business is located, a verified statement disclosing and showing the name of all persons using the name, shall be fined not more than $1,000 or imprisoned in the county jail for not more than one year.
If your firm is a corporation or limited partnership, you need to register it with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) Corporations Section.
You may register your firm name with the Register of Deeds if your firm is a sole proprietorship, general partnership, or association.
If your firm is a corporation or limited partnership, you need to register it with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) Corporations Section.
### Is a trademark registration required in Wisconsin? No, the registration is not required, but is a good way to notify the public of the use of a certain name or mark. Because it is not required the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) has only a partial listing of marks in use by businesses/individuals operating in Wisconsin.
Trademarks or tradenames applications may be filed with the Trademarks Bureau by an individual or any type of business organization or entity, provided the mark is not currently registered with the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI). Please note, however, that filing a tradename for an entity is NOT the same as registering that entity to do business in Wisconsin, and it does not reserve the entity name for exclusive use within the state’s business records system. To create a new entity, to register an existing entity to do business in this state, or to reserve an entity name in the state’s business records system, see the Business Entities section on this website.
Is a trademark registration required in Wisconsin? No, the registration is not required, but is a good way to notify the public of the use of a certain name or mark.
Trademarks or tradenames applications may be filed with the Trademarks Bureau by an individual or any type of business organization or entity, provided the mark is not currently registered with the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI).
Dane County's published instructions are illustrative: use the Registration of Firm Names form, fill it out legibly in black ink, and sign only in the presence of a notary public.
Before filing, the office directs applicants to check the phone directory, the county's real estate index, and the Wisconsin Trademark system for conflicting names.
Trademarks or tradenames applications may be filed with the Trademarks Bureau by an individual or any type of business organization or entity, provided the mark is not currently registered with the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI). Please note, however, that filing a tradename for an entity is NOT the same as registering that entity to do business in Wisconsin, and it does not reserve the entity name for exclusive use within the state’s business records system. To create a new entity, to register an existing entity to do business in this state, or to reserve an entity name in the state’s business records system, see the Business Entities section on this website.
Official destination title: DFI Trademarks Frequently Asked Questions
Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions, Division of Corporate and Consumer Services, 4822 Madison Yards Way, North Tower, Madison, WI 53705
$15
Filing online means creating a free user account in the Trademark File Online system at wims.dfi.wi.gov; the completed application is printed, signed before a notary, and the notarized form is uploaded for submission.
Trademarks or tradenames applications may be filed with the Trademarks Bureau by an individual or any type of business organization or entity, provided the mark is not currently registered with the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI). Please note, however, that filing a tradename for an entity is NOT the same as registering that entity to do business in Wisconsin, and it does not reserve the entity name for exclusive use within the state’s business records system. To create a new entity, to register an existing entity to do business in this state, or to reserve an entity name in the state’s business records system, see the Business Entities section on this website.
Official destination title: DFI Trademarks Frequently Asked Questions
A registration may be renewed for 10-year periods upon application to the department and payment of the same fee required for a registration. Application for renewal shall be made within 6 months before the expiration of the 10-year period specified in this paragraph.
132.01(6)(b)(b))(b) A registration recorded under this section or s. 132.04 or 132.11 on or after May 1, 1990, is effective for 10 years. A registration may be renewed for 10-year periods upon application to the department and payment of the same fee required for a registration. Application for renewal shall be made within 6 months before the expiration of the 10-year period specified in this paragraph.
A county firm name recording under § 134.17 has no stated expiration in the consulted sources, but it can be changed or ended: the statute allows an amendment by "recording a verified statement clearly setting forth all changes and signed by all parties concerned with the register of deeds where the original declaration was filed or recorded," and a "discontinuance of use of corporate name signed by all interested parties and verified" may be recorded the same way.
Any use of corporate name may be amended by recording a verified statement clearly setting forth all changes and signed by all parties concerned with the register of deeds where the original declaration was filed or recorded.
A discontinuance of use of corporate name signed by all interested parties and verified may be recorded with the register of deeds where the original declaration was filed or recorded.
134.17(2))(2)Any use of corporate name may be amended by recording a verified statement clearly setting forth all changes and signed by all parties concerned with the register of deeds where the original declaration was filed or recorded.
134.17(3))(3)A discontinuance of use of corporate name signed by all interested parties and verified may be recorded with the register of deeds where the original declaration was filed or recorded.
A registration may be renewed for 10-year periods upon application to the department and payment of the same fee required for a registration. Application for renewal shall be made within 6 months before the expiration of the 10-year period specified in this paragraph.
Cancel from his or her register a registration of a mark under this section upon the request of the registrant of the mark. The department may not charge a fee for canceling a registration under this paragraph.
132.01(6)(b)(b))(b) A registration recorded under this section or s. 132.04 or 132.11 on or after May 1, 1990, is effective for 10 years. A registration may be renewed for 10-year periods upon application to the department and payment of the same fee required for a registration. Application for renewal shall be made within 6 months before the expiration of the 10-year period specified in this paragraph.
132.01(7)(b)(b))(b) Cancel from his or her register a registration of a mark under this section upon the request of the registrant of the mark. The department may not charge a fee for canceling a registration under this paragraph.
Any use of corporate name may be amended by recording a verified statement clearly setting forth all changes and signed by all parties concerned with the register of deeds where the original declaration was filed or recorded.
A discontinuance of use of corporate name signed by all interested parties and verified may be recorded with the register of deeds where the original declaration was filed or recorded.
134.17(2))(2)Any use of corporate name may be amended by recording a verified statement clearly setting forth all changes and signed by all parties concerned with the register of deeds where the original declaration was filed or recorded.
134.17(3))(3)A discontinuance of use of corporate name signed by all interested parties and verified may be recorded with the register of deeds where the original declaration was filed or recorded.
Cancel from his or her register a registration of a mark under this section upon the request of the registrant of the mark. The department may not charge a fee for canceling a registration under this paragraph.
132.01(7)(b)(b))(b) Cancel from his or her register a registration of a mark under this section upon the request of the registrant of the mark. The department may not charge a fee for canceling a registration under this paragraph.
Each recording carries the register of deeds recording fee.
A DFI tradename or trademark registration, by contrast, "expires 10 years from the date of registration unless you renew the registration within six months of the date of expiration," in the FAQ's words; the statute allows renewal for successive 10-year periods on payment of the same $15 fee, with the renewal application due within six months before expiration.
A registration may be renewed for 10-year periods upon application to the department and payment of the same fee required for a registration. Application for renewal shall be made within 6 months before the expiration of the 10-year period specified in this paragraph.
132.01(6)(b)(b))(b) A registration recorded under this section or s. 132.04 or 132.11 on or after May 1, 1990, is effective for 10 years. A registration may be renewed for 10-year periods upon application to the department and payment of the same fee required for a registration. Application for renewal shall be made within 6 months before the expiration of the 10-year period specified in this paragraph.
DFI's fee schedule lists cancellations and amendments as free, and the statute bars any fee for canceling a registration at the registrant's request.
Any use of corporate name may be amended by recording a verified statement clearly setting forth all changes and signed by all parties concerned with the register of deeds where the original declaration was filed or recorded.
A discontinuance of use of corporate name signed by all interested parties and verified may be recorded with the register of deeds where the original declaration was filed or recorded.
134.17(2))(2)Any use of corporate name may be amended by recording a verified statement clearly setting forth all changes and signed by all parties concerned with the register of deeds where the original declaration was filed or recorded.
134.17(3))(3)A discontinuance of use of corporate name signed by all interested parties and verified may be recorded with the register of deeds where the original declaration was filed or recorded.
Cancel from his or her register a registration of a mark under this section upon the request of the registrant of the mark. The department may not charge a fee for canceling a registration under this paragraph.
132.01(7)(b)(b))(b) Cancel from his or her register a registration of a mark under this section upon the request of the registrant of the mark. The department may not charge a fee for canceling a registration under this paragraph.
Note also that under § 132.01(8), nonuse of a registered mark for at least two years is prima facie evidence of abandonment.
A discontinuance of use of corporate name signed by all interested parties and verified may be recorded with the register of deeds where the original declaration was filed or recorded.
134.17(3))(3)A discontinuance of use of corporate name signed by all interested parties and verified may be recorded with the register of deeds where the original declaration was filed or recorded.
A registration may be renewed for 10-year periods upon application to the department and payment of the same fee required for a registration. Application for renewal shall be made within 6 months before the expiration of the 10-year period specified in this paragraph.
Cancel from his or her register a registration of a mark under this section upon the request of the registrant of the mark. The department may not charge a fee for canceling a registration under this paragraph.
132.01(6)(b)(b))(b) A registration recorded under this section or s. 132.04 or 132.11 on or after May 1, 1990, is effective for 10 years. A registration may be renewed for 10-year periods upon application to the department and payment of the same fee required for a registration. Application for renewal shall be made within 6 months before the expiration of the 10-year period specified in this paragraph.
132.01(7)(b)(b))(b) Cancel from his or her register a registration of a mark under this section upon the request of the registrant of the mark. The department may not charge a fee for canceling a registration under this paragraph.
Publication and notice
Publication could not be confirmed for all covered entity types. No requirement or exemption is asserted.
Next steps: self-file first
Start with the free official source.
For a sole proprietorship, general partnership or association using a name that does not disclose the real names behind the business, consult the register of deeds in the county of the principal place of business. Confirm that county’s firm-name form and recording requirements; a Dane County example is not a reviewed guide to every county.
Register of Deeds of the county where the principal place of business is located
Any person who engages in or advertises any mercantile or commission business under a name purporting or appearing to be a corporate name, with the intent to obtain credit, and which name does not disclose the real name of one or more of the persons engaged in the business, without first recording in the office of the register of deeds of the county in which his or her principal place of business is located, a verified statement disclosing and showing the name of all persons using the name, shall be fined not more than $1,000 or imprisoned in the county jail for not more than one year.
Register of Deeds of the county where the principal place of business is located
If you want a state-level tradename or trademark registration, create a free account in DFI's Trademark File Online system, run the free trademark search first, and budget $15 per mark.
Official destination title: Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions
Remember that neither filing reserves the name or creates ownership rights, and filing a tradename is not the same as registering an entity to do business in Wisconsin.
Any person who engages in or advertises any mercantile or commission business under a name purporting or appearing to be a corporate name, with the intent to obtain credit, and which name does not disclose the real name of one or more of the persons engaged in the business, without first recording in the office of the register of deeds of the county in which his or her principal place of business is located, a verified statement disclosing and showing the name of all persons using the name, shall be fined not more than $1,000 or imprisoned in the county jail for not more than one year.
If your firm is a corporation or limited partnership, you need to register it with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) Corporations Section.
You may register your firm name with the Register of Deeds if your firm is a sole proprietorship, general partnership, or association.
If your firm is a corporation or limited partnership, you need to register it with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) Corporations Section.
### Is a trademark registration required in Wisconsin? No, the registration is not required, but is a good way to notify the public of the use of a certain name or mark. Because it is not required the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) has only a partial listing of marks in use by businesses/individuals operating in Wisconsin.
Trademarks or tradenames applications may be filed with the Trademarks Bureau by an individual or any type of business organization or entity, provided the mark is not currently registered with the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI). Please note, however, that filing a tradename for an entity is NOT the same as registering that entity to do business in Wisconsin, and it does not reserve the entity name for exclusive use within the state’s business records system. To create a new entity, to register an existing entity to do business in this state, or to reserve an entity name in the state’s business records system, see the Business Entities section on this website.
Is a trademark registration required in Wisconsin? No, the registration is not required, but is a good way to notify the public of the use of a certain name or mark.
Trademarks or tradenames applications may be filed with the Trademarks Bureau by an individual or any type of business organization or entity, provided the mark is not currently registered with the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI).
Paid help is optional, and this site does not handle filings.
Paid help, if offered later, is optional. This independent guide does not submit filings or accept government fees.