Search for available business names before registering your business in Wisconsin.
Registered business names cannot be used by other business entities in the state of Wisconsin. If you submit a business name already registered, all business filing paperwork will be returned. Before submitting business filing paperwork, conduct a business name availability search using search tools provided by the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions and by conducting your own searches using local business directories and other resources found at your local library, chamber of commerce or local small business administration office.
Instructions
1. Conduct a search of registered business names using the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions Corporate Registration Information System (CRIS). Click "Name Availability" and enter the business name in the open field. Click "Search Records."
2. Contact the WDFI Division of Corporate and Consumer Services at 608-261-7577 or visit the office to request a search of business names to verify their availability. Office hours are Monday - Friday 7:45 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Division of Corporate and Consumer Services
Corporations Bureau, 3rd Floor
PO Box 7846
Madison, WI 53707-7846
3. Visit your library to review Wisconsin business directories to determine if the business name you want is available. Contact your local chamber of commerce to request a list of all registered businesses in your area and throughout the state. Some chamber of commerce websites include a directory of registered businesses.
