How to Get a Seller’s Permit in Wisconsin

  • Compliance
Learn how to register your business in the state and obtain a seller’s permit in Wisconsin with our step-by-step guide.
Starting a business in Wisconsin is an exciting venture, but it’s crucial to understand the legal requirements that come with it. A common area of confusion for many new business owners is understanding the need for a Seller’s Permit in Wisconsin, also known as a sales tax permit. This permit allows you to collect sales tax on taxable products and services from customers in Wisconsin. 
This blog will guide you through each step of applying for a sales tax permit, with clear instructions to help you and your business begin collecting sales tax effortlessly.
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Who Needs a Seller’s Permit in Wisconsin?

A business must register for a sales tax permit in Wisconsin:

How to Register for a Seller’s Permit in Wisconsin?

When applying for a seller’s permit in Wisconsin, you can use the online application process on DOR Business Tax Online Registration website to complete your sales tax registration.
 

1. Where to Apply for a Seller’s Permit in Wisconsin?

The first step to register for a sales tax permit online is to go to the State Of Wisconsin Department of Revenue website and click on “Online Registration” found in the Business Registration, Permits, and Certificates section. You will then click “Register with Department of Revenue.”
Under the business tax registration section, you will be prompted to indicate whether it is your first time registering a business. Following this, you will need to provide business information, including your ID type and ID number.
You will then follow through the prompts that walk you through your registration process and provide the necessary information. Your registration is not complete until you receive a confirmation number.
During your registration process, you will create an online login account with the state. Once your logon is created, you can manage your current sales tax account(s) and register for additional accounts related to your business.
 

2. What Information Do You Need to Get a Seller’s Permit in Wisconsin?

To successfully acquire a seller’s permit in Wisconsin, it’s important to prepare and provide specific information and documents. The following is a list of the necessary information and documents required to register a sales tax permit in Wisconsin:
  • Business Identification Information: Legal Business Name, Physical Address, Mailing Address 
  • Business Entity Structure (i.e., Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, Subchapter S Corp., Corporation, LLC, etc.)
  • Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN or FEIN)
  • Name, Address, and SSN of Owners, Partners, or Officers
  • Business Activity Details: Date & State of Incorporation, Start Date with Wisconsin (Nexus Start Date), Estimated Monthly Sales in Wisconsin
  • NAICS Code
 

3. How Much are the Fees for Applying for and Renewing a Seller’s Permit in Wisconsin?

Registering for a sales tax permit in Wisconsin requires you to pay a $20 Business Tax Registration (BTR) fee for you to get a Wisconsin seller’s permit. This is valid for two years. You are required to pay a $10 renewal fee by the end of this period.
 

4. What are Other Ways to Register for a Seller’s Permit in Wisconsin?

  • Use TaxHero. Registering for a seller’s permit, mainly when it involves multiple permits, can be a tedious and time-consuming task requiring much effort. Let the experts at TaxHero save you from this hassle, and let us handle the registration process in all states where you have nexus as part of our all-inclusive sales tax service.
  • Paper Application: You have the option to register via mail by completing the Application for Business Tax Registration, although it’s suggested by Wisconsin to register online instead.
 

What’s Next?

After you apply for your Seller’s Permit in Wisconsin, you should receive an email within 24 to 48 hours with an access code. Use this code, along with the username and password you made when signing up, to log in to your account.
If you registered for your business tax online, you will get an email with your permit or certificate number in 1 to 2 business days. Your welcome packet will arrive at your mailing address within 5 to 7 days, including a greeting letter, certificates, permits, and a bill for any unpaid fees.
Obtaining a seller’s permit requires you to collect sales tax for eligible sales in Wisconsin. The document will also specify your filing frequency for sales tax returns and due dates.
Remember that if your business has a physical location in Wisconsin, the Seller’s Permit must be visibly displayed at all times at the place for which the certificate is issued.
If you ever encounter any difficulties, have any questions, or prefer TaxHero to manage these tasks on your behalf, don’t hesitate to reach out! Contact us today.