How to Change LLC Address in Wisconsin | A Step-by-Step Guide

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Change LLC Address in Wisconsin

When you form a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Wisconsin, you are required to provide a registered office address. This address is the official location where legal documents, such as the service of process, can be delivered. As your business grows, you may find it necessary to change your Wisconsin LLC’s address for various reasons, such as moving to a larger space, expanding to multiple locations, or simply changing your Registered Agent.

Changing your Wisconsin LLC address may seem daunting, but it can be simple and straightforward with the right information and guidance. In this article, Webinarcare Editorial Team will walk you through the necessary steps to change your Wisconsin LLC’s address, ensuring that you remain compliant with Wisconsin regulations.

How to Change Wisconsin LLC Address

What is a Limited Liability Company?

A Limited Liability Company (LLC) is a specific form of a private limited company that combines aspects of partnership and corporate structures. It is a legal form of a company that provides its owners with limited liability. This means the owners are not personally liable for the company’s debts and liabilities beyond their investments in the company.

When it comes to changing the registered address of the LLC, the responsibility typically falls on the managers or members of the LLC, depending on the company’s structure.

The process is often as follows:

  1. The LLC must approve the change of address. This may happen at a members’ or managers’ meeting.
  2. Once approved, the appropriate form or document to effect the change of address must be filed with the Wisconsin Secretary of State.
  3. The filing often includes a small processing fee. After accepting the filing, Wisconsin will update the public record with the new address.

In Wisconsin, the change of registered address can also be related to the address of the LLC’s Registered Agent. A Registered Agent is a person or entity appointed by the LLC to receive legal papers and service of process on its behalf. This is another crucial role in the LLC that might be involved in the address change, especially if the Registered Agent’s address is used as the business’s official address.

It’s important to note that the specifics of this process can vary quite a bit depending on the Wisconsin LLC’s operating agreement and the specific administrative rules and requirements of Wisconsin in which the LLC is registered.

Before you change your LLC address, it is advised that you consult with a legal expert. They will be aware of what’s best for you and your business. You can always start an LLC in Wisconsin, if you wish to protect your personal assets from business debts.

– WEBINARCARE EDITORIAL TEAM

Reasons to Change Wisconsin LLC Address

Changing the address of an LLC in Wisconsin can be prompted by several reasons, each distinctive to the business’s circumstances and goals. Here are several common reasons:

  1. Relocation of Business: The main reason for changing an LLC address is the relocation of the business. This could be related to business expansion, more space, or moving to a more convenient location.
  2. Convenience or Strategy: Sometimes, an LLC might change its primary address for convenience or strategic reasons. For instance, the business might move closer to its customer base or an area with favorable economic benefits.
  3. Legal Requirements: If an LLC’s legal or Registered Agent changes its address, the company must also change its registered address since the Registered Agent’s location is where all legal correspondences are sent.
  4. Rental Issues: If the tenant agreement — such as a lease — expires or faces problems, it might compel an LLC to change addresses. Landlord disputes can also lead to a change of address.
  5. Management Changes: If the management or owner of the business changes and the old address is no longer feasible or relevant for the new management, a change of address becomes necessary.
  6. Privacy Concerns: Some LLC owners change their addresses for privacy reasons to separate their personal lives from their business activities.
  7. Cost Reduction: Sometimes, a business may change its address to move to a less expensive area to cut costs.
  8. Disaster Recovery: In the unfortunate event of a natural disaster or other unforeseen circumstances, such as a fire outbreak or civil disturbance, changing the LLC’s address might be necessary.
  9. Image and Branding: The business address can sometimes be part of the company image, particularly if the business is in an industry where location matters. An LLC may change addresses in such cases as part of a rebranding effort.

Remember, if your business operates as an LLC in Wisconsin, it’s important to update the Wisconsin Secretary of State or other relevant state agency whenever you change your business address. It helps to keep your business in good standing and to ensure that all official documents, notifications, and legal correspondences reach you or your Registered Agent.

How to Change Wisconsin LLC Address

To change your Wisconsin LLC address, you must follow the guidelines that include determining whether you need to change your LLC’s address, update your registered office address, update your principal place of business address, notify the IRS, and inform other relevant parties due to the amendment of your LLC address. 

Step 1: Determine If You Need to Change Your LLC’s Address

Before you begin the process of changing your Wisconsin LLC’s address, it’s essential to determine whether a change is indeed necessary. In Wisconsin, there are two primary addresses associated with your LLC:

Registered Office Address

This is the official address where legal documents and official correspondence will be delivered. If you are starting a business in Wisconsin or changing your Registered Agent, you will need to update this address. Changing your Registered Agent is one of the reasons why you need to change your Wisconsin LLC address because a Registered Agent should have a primary address in the state your LLC is registered. 

An example is having a Foreign LLC in Wisconsin; a Registered Agent should have the same address as your registered Foreign LLC.

Principal Place of Business Address

This is where your Wisconsin business operates. If you are moving your business, expanding to multiple locations, or changing your business structure, you must update this address. 

In some cases, you may need to update both addresses. Be sure to evaluate your specific situation to determine which addresses need to be updated.

Step 2: Update Your Registered Office Address

If you need to change your registered office address in Wisconsin, you will likely need to file an address change form with the Wisconsin Secretary of State. Below is an outline of the steps:

Obtain the Appropriate Form

Visit the Wisconsin Secretary of State‘s website to download the necessary form for changing your Wisconsin registered office address. This form may be called “Wisconsin Statement of Change of Registered Office” or something similar.

For you to update the registered office address, you need to have the following;

1. Your Wisconsin LLC must obtain a Certificate of Status from the Wisconsin Secretary of State, confirming that it has complied with all filing and tax obligations in the state of Wisconsin.

2. Your Wisconsin LLC must conduct a name search on Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions to ensure that its desired name is available for use in the state of Wisconsin. However, if you do not wish to file your LLC right away but want to hold the name that you have decided on, then you can reserve your LLC name for 120 days. You must file a name reservation application with the Wisconsin Secretary of State to keep the name. 

You can register your business under a different legal name if your preferred name isn’t available.  Once you have chosen a name, you can submit an application for Wisconsin DBA (doing business as). In this manner, you can choose any name you desire for your business. A DBA allows a company to operate under the name of the person or entity who owns it. If you have decided to file for a DBA, you can file it in two methods, by mail and in person.

However, before filing a DBA, you should know that you need to renew your DBA every ten years, which costs $15.

3. Your Wisconsin LLC should prepare and file the Articles of Domestication with the Wisconsin Secretary of State, providing information about its existing Wisconsin LLC, its desired Wisconsin LLC name, and its new registered office address in Wisconsin.

4. Your Wisconsin LLC has designated a Registered Agent with a physical address in Wisconsin and is available during regular business hours to receive legal and official documents on behalf of the LLC.

In Wisconsin, your Registered Agent must:

  • Be a resident of Wisconsin or a business entity authorized to do business in Wisconsin
  • Have a physical address in Wisconsin (P.O. boxes are not acceptable)

Choosing a reliable and responsible Registered Agent is essential, as failure to receive and respond to legal documents can seriously affect your business. 

You can serve as your own Registered Agent or appoint a friend, family member or hire the Best Wisconsin Registered Agent Services.

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Complete the Form

Carefully fill out the form, providing all required information, including your Wisconsin LLC’s name, current registered office address, and new registered office address. You may also be required to provide the name and address of your new Registered Agent if you are changing agents.

Submit the Form

Once the form is completed, please submit it to the Wisconsin Secretary of State, along with any required filing fees. You can usually submit your form online, by mail, or in person.

The fees in Wisconsin for this process are as follows:

  • Articles of Domestication: The filing fee for Articles of Domestication with the Wisconsin Secretary of State is $100.00 for conversion.
  • Dissolution of Wisconsin LLC: The fee for filing the Wisconsin Articles of Dissolution with the Wisconsin Secretary of State is $20.

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Confirm the Change

After submitting your form and other required documents, you should receive a confirmation from the Wisconsin Secretary of State that your address change has been processed. Keep this confirmation as proof that you have updated your registered office address.

Step 3: Update Your Principal Place of Business Address

If you need to change your Wisconsin LLC’s principal place of business address in Wisconsin, you may need to update your business license or other permits, depending on your specific situation. Here are some general steps to follow:

  • Contact Local Agencies: Contact the Wisconsin Secretary of State that issued your business licenses or permits to determine their specific requirements for changing your address. Depending on your business type and location, this may include city, county, or state agencies.
  • Keep Records: Retain copies of any updated Wisconsin licenses, permits, or other documents as proof that you have changed your principal place of business address. This may be necessary for future filings, audits, or compliance requirements.
  • Update your Licenses and Permits: Follow the instructions provided by the Wisconsin Secretary of State to update your business licenses and permits with your new principal place of business address. 

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Step 4: Notify the IRS of Your Address Change

In addition to updating your Wisconsin LLC’s address with the Wisconsin Secretary of State and local agencies, you should also notify the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) of your address change. To do this, follow these steps:

  • Complete Form 8822-B: Download and complete IRS Form 8822-B, “Change of Address or Responsible Party – Business.” This form informs the IRS of your LLC’s new address.
  • Mail the Form: Mail the completed Form 8822-B to the IRS at the address specified in the form’s instructions. There is no filing fee associated with this form.
  • Update your EIN: If your Wisconsin LLC has an Employer Identification Number (EIN), you should also update the address associated with your EIN by contacting the IRS via phone, mail, or fax. The specific contact information and instructions can be found on the IRS website.

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Step 5: Inform Other Relevant Parties of Your Address Change

To ensure that your Wisconsin LLC remains in good standing and that you continue to receive important correspondence, you should also inform the following parties of your address change:

  • Banks and financial institutions
  • Vendors and suppliers
  • Customers and clients
  • Utility providers
  • Wisconsin Insurance companies
  • Relevant industry associations or organizations

Update the Articles of Organization

When changing the address of your LLC in Wisconsin, one of the pertinent requirements could be updating your Articles of Organization, which is the document initially filed to establish your business entity officially.

The Articles of Organization includes various pieces of information about the LLC, such as its name, primary place of business, and Registered Agent information. When you change the business address, it’s critical to ensure that the details on the Articles of Organization reflect this modification.

The process usually involves the following steps:

  1. Obtain the Proper Form: The LLC must get the right form to amend the Articles of Organization in Wisconsin. This information is typically available on the state’s Secretary of State website or other relevant state agencies.
  2. Complete the Form: Fill out the form according to the instructions provided.
  3. Submit and Pay Fees: Once the form is completed, submit it to the Wisconsin Secretary of State, along with any necessary filing fees. The fee for the amendment is $130.
  4. Record Keeping: Keep a copy of the amendment or change of address form for the company’s records.

Remember that the process and requirements for changing an LLC address may vary based on the regulations in Wisconsin, so it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional or refer to the Wisconsin Secretary of State website for accurate information.

Advantages of Changing Wisconsin LLC Address

Changing the address of an LLC in Wisconsin could bring several advantages, depending on the specific circumstances and reasons behind the move:

  • Business Growth and Expansion: If the change of address is due to the need for more space, the LLC is growing and expanding, which is a positive outcome.
  • Access to Resources: Moving to a new location could provide better access to essential resources, such as proximity to suppliers, customers, or a skilled labor pool, enhancing the company’s operation and potential profitability.
  • Strategic Benefits: The LLC might move to an advantageous business environment with strategic benefits such as a more favorable regulatory climate, lower taxes, or business-friendly policies.
  • Improved Professional Image: Moving to a prestigious business district or a well-known commercial area could enhance the professional image of the LLC and make it more attractive to clients or investors.
  • Lower Operating Costs: Changing the address could lower costs if the new location has cheaper rent, utility, or other operational expenses.
  • Improved Work Environment: A new address could mean a better work environment for employees, boosting morale, productivity, and, ultimately, the bottom line.
  • Enhanced Privacy: If an LLC owner uses a home address as the registered address, moving to a new, separate business address can help maintain privacy and separate personal life from business matters.

While these potential benefits can be compelling, it’s important to remember that changing an LLC’s address also involves informing the relevant government bodies in Wisconsin, updating business contacts, and possibly revising marketing materials. LLC owners should factor these considerations into their decision-making process.

Can Form 882-B Be Used to Change the LLC Name? 

Form 8822-B, titled “Change of Address or Responsible Party — Business,” informs the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) of an address change for a business or a change in the responsible party. It cannot be used to change the name of an LLC.

To change the name of Wisconsin LLC, you must follow the appropriate process in the state where your LLC is registered. This typically involves filing Articles of Amendment or a similar document with the Wisconsin Secretary of State. After the name change has been approved at the state level, you should inform the IRS by following the instructions on your tax return or by sending a signed letter to the IRS office where you filed your return.

FAQs

Where do I file my change of address for my Wisconsin LLC?
You can file your change of address with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions.
What happens if I don’t update my LLC’s address in Wisconsin?
Your LLC may not receive important mail or legal notices, which could have serious consequences.
Can I change my LLC address online in Wisconsin?
Yes, you can change your LLC address online through the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions’ online filing system.
How much does it cost to change my LLC address in Wisconsin?
The fee for changing your LLC address in Wisconsin is $10.
How long does it take to change my LLC address in Wisconsin?
It typically takes 2-3 business days for the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions to process your change of address.
Can I hire a service to help me change my LLC address in Wisconsin?
Yes, there are many services available that can help you change your LLC address in Wisconsin, but be sure to choose a reputable provider.
Will changing my LLC address in Wisconsin affect my LLC’s tax status?
No, changing your LLC address in Wisconsin will not affect your LLC’s tax status.
Do I need to notify the IRS of my LLC’s address change in Wisconsin?
No, you do not need to notify the IRS of your LLC’s address change in Wisconsin.
What documents do I need to provide to change my LLC’s address in Wisconsin?
You will need to provide your LLC’s Articles of Organization, along with a statement indicating the new address.
Can I change my LLC name and address at the same time in Wisconsin?
Yes, you can change your LLC name and address at the same time in Wisconsin by filing an Amended Articles of Organization form.
Can I change my LLC’s registered agent at the same time as my address in Wisconsin?
Yes, you can change your LLC’s registered agent and address at the same time in Wisconsin.
Where can I find the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions address change form?
You can find the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions address change form online on their website.
How often do I need to update my LLC’s address in Wisconsin?
You need to update your LLC’s address in Wisconsin every time it changes.
Is there a deadline for changing my LLC address in Wisconsin?
There is no deadline for changing your LLC’s address in Wisconsin, but it is recommended that you do so as soon as possible.
Will I need to provide proof of my new address to change my LLC address in Wisconsin?
No, you will not typically need to provide proof of your new address to change your LLC address in Wisconsin.
What happens if I change my LLC address multiple times in Wisconsin?
This is not a problem, but it could become confusing if you change it multiple times without good reason.
Do I need to notify my clients or customers of my LLC’s address change in Wisconsin?
It’s a good idea to notify your clients or customers of your LLC’s address change in Wisconsin to avoid any confusion or missed mail.
What is the statutory agent for an LLC in Wisconsin?
The statutory agent for an LLC in Wisconsin is the person or entity designated to receive service of process on behalf of the LLC.
Can my LLC have a PO Box as its registered address in Wisconsin?
No, your LLC cannot have a PO Box as its registered address in Wisconsin.
Do I need to obtain a new EIN after changing my LLC address in Wisconsin?
No, you do not need to obtain a new EIN after changing your LLC address in Wisconsin.
Can I change my LLC address without notifying all my clients in Wisconsin?
While it’s not required to notify your clients of your LLC address change in Wisconsin, it’s a good idea to avoid any confusion or missed mail.
Can my LLC’s address be located outside of Wisconsin?
Yes, your LLC’s address can be located outside of Wisconsin, but you must still maintain a registered agent within the state.
Is changing a foreign LLC’s address in Wisconsin different from changing a domestic LLC’s address?
Yes, the process for changing a foreign LLC’s address in Wisconsin is slightly different and typically involves more paperwork.
Can I change my LLC’s mailing address without changing its registered agent in Wisconsin?
Yes, you can change your LLC’s mailing address without changing its registered agent in Wisconsin.
How will I know if my LLC’s address change has been approved by the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions?
You will receive a confirmation letter from the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions indicating that your LLC’s address has been changed.
Can I change my LLC address in Wisconsin if there is pending litigation against my LLC?
Yes, you can change your LLC address in Wisconsin even if there is pending litigation against your LLC.
Can I change my LLC’s address in Wisconsin if there are outstanding tax liabilities?
Yes, you can change your LLC’s address in Wisconsin even if there are outstanding tax liabilities, but it’s recommended that you address these liabilities as soon as possible.
Can I change my LLC’s physical address and mailing address separately in Wisconsin?
Yes, you can change your LLC’s physical and mailing address separately in Wisconsin.
Is there a penalty for not updating my Wisconsin LLC’s address within a certain timeframe?
There is no penalty for not updating your Wisconsin LLC’s address within a certain timeframe, but it’s important to do so in order to receive important mail and legal notices.
What is the process to change the address of my LLC in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, you can change the address of your LLC by submitting a form called “Articles of Organization” to the Department of Financial Institutions.
How long does it take to change the address of my LLC in Wisconsin?
It generally takes two to five business days to change the address of your LLC in Wisconsin, depending on the workload of the Department of Financial Institutions.
Do I need to provide a reason for changing the address of my LLC in Wisconsin?
No, you don’t need to provide a reason for changing the address of your LLC in Wisconsin.
Can I change the address of my LLC in Wisconsin without notifying my registered agent?
No, you must notify your registered agent if you want to change the address of your LLC in Wisconsin.
Is there a deadline for changing the address of my LLC in Wisconsin?
No, there’s no deadline for changing the address of your LLC in Wisconsin. However, you should update your address as soon as possible to avoid missing important correspondence from the Department of Financial Institutions.
Do I need to update my address in the articles of organization if I move my LLC to a different state?
Yes, you need to file Articles of Domestication or Articles of Conversion if you’re moving your LLC to a different state. This process creates a new LLC with a new address.
Can I change the mailing address of my LLC without changing the physical address?
Yes, you can change the mailing address of your LLC without changing the physical address by submitting a form called “Change of Registered Office or Registered Agent.”
Do I need to have a physical address to change the address of my LLC in Wisconsin?
Yes, you need to have a physical address to change the address of your LLC in Wisconsin. A P.O. Box isn’t sufficient.
What happens if I don’t update my LLC address in Wisconsin?
If you don’t update your LLC address in Wisconsin, you risk missing important correspondence from the Department of Financial Institutions. This could include legal notices, tax notices, or notifications about your LLC’s status.
Can I change the address of my LLC in Wisconsin if it’s suspended or revoked?
No, you can’t change the address of your LLC in Wisconsin if it’s suspended or revoked. You must first address the reasons for suspension or revocation before updating your address.
Do I need to notify the Wisconsin Department of Revenue if I change my LLC address?
Yes, you need to notify the Wisconsin Department of Revenue if you change your LLC address. You can do this by submitting a form called the “Wisconsin Business Tax Registration” to the department.
Can I use a virtual office as my LLC’s physical address in Wisconsin?
Yes, you can use a virtual office as your LLC’s physical address in Wisconsin as long as it’s a physical location where you can receive mail and conduct business.
What if I want to change my LLC’s name and address at the same time in Wisconsin?
If you want to change your LLC’s name and address at the same time in Wisconsin, you need to file a form called “Articles of Amendment” with the Department of Financial Institutions.
How can I find out if my new LLC address is available in Wisconsin?
You can check whether your new LLC address is available by searching the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions’ database of registered business names and addresses.
Can I change the address of my domestic LLC to a foreign address?
No, you can’t change the address of your domestic LLC to a foreign address. Your LLC must have a Wisconsin address.
Will changing my LLC address in Wisconsin affect my taxes?
Changing your LLC address in Wisconsin may affect your taxes if your new address changes your jurisdiction or tax obligations.
Can I change the address of my LLC in Wisconsin if it has outstanding tax debts?
No, you can’t change the address of your LLC in Wisconsin if it has outstanding tax debts. You must first resolve the debt before updating your address.
Do I need a lawyer to change the address of my LLC in Wisconsin?
No, you don’t need a lawyer to change the address of your LLC in Wisconsin. However, you may want to consult a lawyer if you have specific legal questions.
How can I change my LLC address in Wisconsin if I’ve lost my Articles of Organization?
If you’ve lost your Articles of Organization, you need to request a copy from the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions before you can change your address.
Will changing my LLC address in Wisconsin affect the standing of my LLC?
Changing the address of your LLC in Wisconsin shouldn’t affect the standing of your LLC as long as you update your address with the Department of Financial Institutions.
Can I change the address of my LLC in Wisconsin if it’s in a different county?
Yes, you can change the address of your LLC in Wisconsin if it’s in a different county. You simply need to update the address on file with the Department of Financial Institutions.
Can I register a new LLC with the same address as my old LLC in Wisconsin?
Yes, you can register a new LLC with the same address as your old LLC in Wisconsin as long as the address is still valid and not being used by another registered business.
Do I need to change my LLC address in Wisconsin even if I’ve moved only a few blocks away?
Yes, you need to change your LLC address in Wisconsin even if you’ve only moved a few blocks away. Your address must be up-to-date with the Department of Financial Institutions.
Can I change the address of my LLC in Wisconsin if it’s a foreign LLC registered with Wisconsin as my home state?
Yes, you can change the address of your foreign LLC registered in Wisconsin as your home state by filing a form called the “Application for Registration of a Foreign LLC.”
What if I want to change my LLC address before it’s officially active?
If you want to change your LLC address before it’s officially active, you need to wait until you receive confirmation of your LLC status from the Department of Financial Institutions.
Can I change the address of my single-member LLC in Wisconsin?
Yes, you can change the address of your single-member LLC in Wisconsin using the same process as a multi-member LLC.
Do I need to include a tax ID or Social Security number when changing my LLC address in Wisconsin?
Yes, you need to include your LLC’s tax ID or Social Security number when changing your LLC address in Wisconsin on the Articles of Organization form.

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Conclusion

Changing your LLC’s address in Wisconsin can be relatively simple if you follow the above steps. By updating your registered office and principal place of business addresses, notifying the IRS, and informing other relevant parties, you can ensure that your LLC remains compliant with Wisconsin regulations and continues to operate smoothly.

Remember to keep records of all address changes and any updated licenses, permits, or other documents, as these may be necessary for future filings, audits, or other compliance requirements. And as always, consult with a legal or business professional if you have any questions or concerns about your situation.

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