The Limited Liability Company, or LLC, is a business structure that combines the advantages of many traditional business forms. An LLC enjoys the same type of limited liability as a corporation, but like the sole proprietorship and partnership, it is not taxed as its own entity. Like a corporation, a LLC can have unlimited shareholders, called members. But a key difference is if one of these shareholders dies or files for bankruptcy, the LLC is dissolved and will stop operations unless the remaining members form a new LLC. For hundreds of years, limited liability has been a primary goal of some business forms, but since the Wisconsin legislature enacted laws authorizing its formation, the modern LLC has become more and more popular.

Can My Business Be Formed as an LLC?

A business in Wisconsin can be organized using the form that it chooses. If the founders want to organize as an LLC, all that is required is filing the appropriate form with the Secretary of State. However, some charge additional fees for the formation of LLC?s, and in Wisconsin there are particular laws that govern the actions of LLC?s. When deciding whether to form a LLC, you should consider which laws would apply to your company. Although it may take some time to find, choosing the right business structure for your company will lead to increased profitability.

Can I Change the Form of My Business to an LLC?

Changing business forms in Portage can be done if a company's situation meets specific conditions. Conversion to a LLC is possible if Wisconsin law permits it in your situation.

How Can an Attorney Help?

A lawyer versed in Wisconsin business law will be able to advise you of the benefits and costs for forming and maintaining a LLC.