There is a $20 Business Tax Registration fee. The Department of Revenue may also require a security deposit of up to $15,000. Most businesses starting in Wisconsin that are selling a product or offering certain services will need to register for a seller’s permit through the Wisconsin Department of Revenue as a part of applying for the Wisconsin Business Tax Registration.
Seller’s Permit and Sales Tax
In addition to the seller’s permit, the Business Tax Registration allows a business to register for withholding tax and Use Tax Certificate. States require a seller’s permit for businesses to collect sales tax from customers and remit it to the state on a predefined schedule.
Wisconsin offers a Seller’s Permit for businesses with sales tax obligations in the state. You can contact the Wisconsin Department of Revenue by telephone at (608) 266‐2776 if you have questions about registering for a sales tax permit in Wisconsin.
A seller’s permit allows sellers to collect and remit sales tax from customers. Some states charge permit fees and security deposits. Depending on the state, you may need to renew your sales tax permits.
You can obtain a Wisconsin seller’s permit by completing the Business Tax Registration if you intend to sell tangible personal property or services.
Obtaining a Seller’s License
Who Needs It?
A business must register for a seller’s permit in Wisconsin when making retail sales, leases, or rentals of tangible personal property or taxable services in Wisconsin, unless all sales are exempt from sales or use tax.
How to Get One
You can either fill out a paper application and file it in person or you can simply submit an online application. It is strongly recommended that all new businesses file for their sales tax permits through an online tax registration application as it is the easiest and fastest way to apply.
Visit the Department of Revenue to obtain a seller’s permit. Additionally, businesses in certain professions and industries may need other specific licenses or permits.
Cost
Wisconsin currently charges a $20 registration fee to apply for the Seller’s Permit.
To get a Wisconsin Seller’s Permit, you’ll need to first register for business tax using the Wisconsin Department of Revenue (DOR) Business Tax Registration link. The initial fee is $20 and covers the first two years. After that, the renewal fee is $10, paid every two years.
Food Sales in Wisconsin
If you plan to sell your products primarily to consumers directly, you will need a retail food license. Internet sales are considered retail sales.
Additional Licensing Concerns
Licensing Checks
You can check the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services website to see if a business has a license.
Address Changes and Lost Licenses
You should notify the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services of your new address once it is permanent.
Selling on Etsy
Some states require a sales tax permit, while others require a business license. You can check with your local government to determine what licenses and permits you need to sell on Etsy. It’s essential to research your local laws and regulations to determine what licenses and permits you need to sell on Etsy. You’ll need to follow the law based on your location and research whether you need a business license to sell before you start, or you could be opening yourself up to some hefty fines. In the US, every state has its own regulations about business licenses for home-based businesses.