How to Conduct a Wisconsin Secretary of State Business Search in 5 Easy Steps
Are you looking to conduct a business search in Wisconsin? It’s a crucial step for anyone looking to start or expand their business in the state. The Wisconsin Secretary of State acts as the custodian of official state records which include business registration records. This article will outline an easy 5-step process to conduct a successful business search in Wisconsin.
Step 1: Visit Wisconsin Secretary of State Website
The first step in any business search is to visit the official website of the Wisconsin Secretary of State. Once you’re on the website, navigate to the “Corporation Records Search” page. It is easily accessible from the homepage located in the menu on the left-hand side.
Step 2: Search by Business Name
The next step is to enter the name of the business that you are searching for. Keep in mind that different businesses may have similar names, so it’s important to enter the specific name as accurately as possible. The website has a fuzzy logic search engine that can help you find the right business by offering you possible matches.
Step 3: Review Search Results
Once you have entered the business name, the search engine will display all matching records from the Wisconsin Secretary of State’s database. It’s important to note at this stage that merely having a business name does not confirm the legitimacy of the business entity or its registration status. You must review the matching records and look at additional details, such as the business’s registered agent, address, and status, to determine whether the business is valid or not.
Step 4: Review Business Details
Now that you have a list of matching businesses, it’s time to review the business details. This includes the business name, registration number, registered agent, business address, and status. Each record provides detailed information about the business entity in Wisconsin, including its date of incorporation, whether it’s in good standing, and any additional comments.
Step 5: Obtain Copies of the Business Records
If you need to go further with your research, you can obtain copies of the business records. To do this, click on the View button of the relevant business record, and you’ll be directed to the page with more detailed information about the business. Here, you will find links to download copies of the business’s articles of incorporation, annual reports, and any other relevant records.
Conclusion
Searching for a business in Wisconsin is a straightforward and easy process. By following these 5 steps, you can easily conduct a search and obtain necessary information about any business. Just remember the importance of researching the results carefully, and verifying the legitimacy of the businesses you find before making any investment decisions or contracts.
