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. There may be a fee required for opening your LLC, however. Applicable Wisconsin laws govern the formation of LLC's and their actions. You should consider these laws when deciding whether to organize your business as an LLC. Finding the right business structure for your company may take some effort, but it will ultimately make your business more profitable.

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

Businesses in Ripon may sometimes change form. A company is eligible for conversion to an LLC if its situation falls under circumstances that are detailed by Wisconsin law.

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.