How to File Your Wisconsin Tax Return for 2024: Step-by-Step Guide for Individuals and Small Businesses

Filing your Wisconsin tax return for 2024 doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you're an individual, a sole proprietor, or a small business owner, this guide will walk you through the entire tax filing process step by step. It's designed for anyone—especially first-time filers—who wants clarity, accuracy, and peace of mind when preparing their state taxes.

This article is based on official guidance from the Wisconsin Department of Revenue. It outlines completing your return, filing it electronically or by paper, making payments, and tracking your refund. You'll also learn how to access your tax account, estimate what you owe or expect to receive, and what forms you need. We address everyday filing situations, tax forms, and payment options to help make the process easier.

By following this guide, you'll be better prepared to file your return on time, avoid penalties, and take advantage of available deductions or credits. If you're filing your taxes or using a tax preparer, the information provided here will help you stay organized, make informed decisions, and maximize your refund. Let's get started with what you need to know before filing your Wisconsin tax return. 

Overview of Wisconsin State Income Tax for 2024 

Filing a Wisconsin tax return for 2024 requires understanding who must file, the key filing dates, and what changes have occurred for this tax year. This section outlines the income thresholds, filing requirements, and updates you should know before you begin the tax preparation process.

Who Must File a Wisconsin Tax Return

You are required to file a Wisconsin tax return if any of the following apply:

• You are a full-year Wisconsin resident, and your gross income meets or exceeds the filing threshold for your status:
  
  
  • Single: $13,930 (under 65) or $14,180 (65 or older)
    
    
  • Head of Household: $17,790 (under 65) or $18,040 (65 or older)
    
    
  • Married Filing Jointly: $25,890 (both under 65), $26,140 (one spouse 65+), or $26,390 (both 65+)
    
    
  • Married Filing Separately: $12,330 (under 65) or $12,580 (65 or older)
    
    
• You are a part-year or nonresident of Wisconsin who earned $2,000 or more in Wisconsin income.
  
  
• You had Wisconsin income tax withheld from your paycheck.
  
  
• You are subject to the alternative minimum tax or the economic development surcharge. These requirements apply whether you are filing your taxes or working with a tax preparer.

Filing Deadlines for 2024 Returns

The due date to file your 2024 Wisconsin tax return is April 15, 2025. If you cannot file by this date, Wisconsin recognizes the federal extension automatically, which gives you until October 15, 2025, to submit your return.

However, this extension applies only to filing. If you owe taxes, payment is still due by April 15, 2025, to avoid interest charges. Failing to pay on time may result in additional penalties and fees, even if you received an extension for filing.

Key Changes for the 2024 Tax Year

Several updates have been introduced that affect how you prepare and file your tax return:

• The deduction limit for contributions to Section 529 college savings plans has increased for tax years beginning after December 31, 2023.
  
  
• More taxpayers may now qualify for free filing through the Free File Alliance, including access to approved tax software companies participating in the IRS Free File program.
  
  
• Wisconsin will participate in the IRS Direct File pilot during the 2025 filing season, giving eligible taxpayers another way to file electronically.

These changes simplify the filing process and increase qualifying taxpayers' access to free or low-cost tax preparation options.

What Wisconsin Tax Forms Do You Need

Before you start filing your Wisconsin tax return, it's essential to identify the correct forms based on your residency and whether you are filing as an individual or a business owner. Choosing the correct forms helps avoid processing delays and ensures accuracy in your tax filing.

For Individual Filers

If you are filing your taxes as a full-year resident of Wisconsin, you should use:

• Form 1—For full-year residents reporting Wisconsin income and deductions.
  
  
• Form 1NPR—For part-year residents and nonresidents who earned income in Wisconsin.
  
  
• Schedule H—Used to claim the Homestead Credit, which provides property tax relief to qualifying individuals.
  
  
• Schedule SB and Schedule AD—These reports show the subtractions or additions to income specific to Wisconsin tax law.
  
  
• Schedule CR—For claiming credits such as the school property tax credit or married couple credit.
  
  
• Schedule WI-2441—For claiming the Wisconsin Child and Dependent Care Expenses Credit.

These forms help you report your income, determine your refund or balance due, and claim available deductions and credits.

For Small Business Owners

If you are self-employed or own a small business, the forms you need will depend on your business structure:

• Sole Proprietors and Single-Member LLCs: Use Form 1 and attach Schedule DE to report disregarded entity income. Include your federal Schedule C as part of your return.
  
  
• Partnerships: File Form 3 and ensure all required partners’ data is included.
  
  
• C-Corporations: Use Form 4 to report income and expenses and calculate business tax owed.
  
  
• S-Corporations: File Form 5S and meet all pass-through reporting requirements.
  
  
• Combined Groups of Corporations: If your entities file as a combined unit for Wisconsin tax purposes, use Form 6.

Each form must be completed with accuracy and signed appropriately before submission.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Complete Your Return 

This section breaks down the process of preparing your Wisconsin tax return correctly. Whether you are filing individually or for a business, following these steps will help you avoid mistakes and ensure your return is processed efficiently.

For Individual Filers

1. Gather Your Documents
   Collect all required information, such as W-2s, 1099s, a copy of your completed federal return, documentation of estimated tax payments, and receipts for deductible expenses.
   
   
2. Complete Your Federal Return First
   Wisconsin tax forms use the federal adjusted gross income (AGI) as a starting point, so you must complete your federal return before preparing your Wisconsin return.
   
   
3. Fill Out Form 1 or Form 1NPR
   Enter your details, report your federal AGI, and apply any Wisconsin-specific additions or subtractions using Schedule AD and Schedule SB.
   
   
4. Claim Credits and Deductions
   Use Schedule CR for state tax credits and Schedule WI-2441 for dependent care credits. Check eligibility for deductions like tuition expenses or medical insurance premiums.
   
   
5. Calculate Tax and Determine Payment or Refund
   Use the tax tables to find your tax liability, subtract withholding and estimated payments, and determine if you owe or will receive a refund.
   
   
6. Review and Sign
   Verify your calculations, attach all necessary documents, and sign your return. If filing jointly, both spouses must sign.
   
   

For Small Business Owners

• Sole Proprietors and Single-Member LLCs
  Attach Schedule DE and report business income and expenses on your return. Include relevant federal schedules.
  
  
• C-Corporations
  Complete Form 4 with corporation information, income, adjustments, and apportionment if your business operates in multiple states. Calculate tax at the 7.9% flat rate and include any required surcharges.
  
  
• Note: C-corporations with gross receipts over $4 million are subject to an economic development surcharge of 3% on income/franchise tax, with a minimum of $25 and a maximum of $9,800.

Accurate preparation reduces delays and supports receiving your refund quickly or paying any tax owed on time.

How to File Your Wisconsin Tax Return 

Wisconsin residents have multiple options for submitting their state tax returns. You can file electronically or by paper, depending on your preference, filing status, and business type.

Electronic Filing (E-File)

E-filing is the preferred and fastest method for most taxpayers. The Wisconsin Department of Revenue accepts several electronic filing options:

• WisTax—The state's direct file program for simple returns.
  
  
• Free File Alliance—A group of approved tax software providers offering free filing for those who qualify. Eligibility is typically based on adjusted gross income.
  
  
• Authorized Tax Software—Commercial platforms that allow you to file your Wisconsin and federal returns together.
  
  
• Tax Preparers—Certified professionals who offer electronic filing and can help prepare more complex returns.

Electronic filing offers faster processing, better accuracy, and quicker refunds. It also confirms that your return was received securely.

Paper Filing

You can file your return by paper if you prefer or if your situation requires forms that are not supported electronically. Paper filing requires you to:

• Print and assemble all relevant forms, including your Wisconsin return, W-2s, and a copy of your federal return.
  
  
• Sign and date the return before mailing it to the appropriate Wisconsin Department of Revenue address, based on whether a payment is included.
  
  
• Include Form PV if you are paying and e-filing is not used.

Corporations must file electronically unless the department grants a waiver. Filing by paper may take longer to process and delay any refund.

How to Make a Tax Payment in Wisconsin

Paying your Wisconsin taxes on time is essential to avoid penalties and interest. Whether you file electronically or on paper, you have several payment methods based on convenience, cost, and security.

Electronic Payment Options

• Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT): Using the Wisconsin Department of Revenue’s secure payment portal, you can pay directly from your bank account.
  
  
• Credit or Debit Card: Payments can be made using Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express. Note that a service provider fee applies.
  
  
• Apple Pay or PayPal: These digital payment methods are also accepted, offering flexibility when using a mobile device.

Please note that card and digital payments incur a $1 transaction fee plus a 2.25% processing fee.

Paying by Check or Money Order

If you are not using electronic filing, you can pay by mailing a check or money order:

• Make it payable to the Wisconsin Department of Revenue.
  
  
• Include your Social Security Number or FEIN on the memo line.
  
  
• Attach Form PV (Payment Voucher) to your return.

Do not staple the check to your forms. Instead, if you're mailing it, paperclip it to the front of the return.

Deadlines and Estimated Payments

• Payment Due Date: All tax payments are due by April 15, 2025, even if you received a filing extension. Failing to pay by this date may incur interest charges of 18% annually.
  
  
• Estimated Tax Payments: If you expect to owe $500 or more in 2025, make estimated quarterly payments for:
  
  
  • April 15, 2025
    
    
  • June 15, 2025
    
    
  • September 15, 2025
    
    
  • January 15, 2026

Corporations that owed $1,000 or more in net tax the prior year must use EFT. The department will notify them when this requirement applies.

How to Track Your Refund or Tax Balance

After filing your Wisconsin tax return, you should track your refund or check your balance due. The Wisconsin Department of Revenue offers multiple tools to help you monitor the status of your return and payments.

Track Your Refund

You can use the My Tax Account system online to check your refund status. You'll need:

• Your Social Security Number or FEIN
  
  
• Your filing status
  
  
• The exact refund amount claimed on your return.

You can also check your refund by calling (608) 266-8100 in Madison or (414) 227-4907 in Milwaukee. You can also request email status updates by filling out a form on the DOR website.

Refund Processing Times:

• E-filed returns: Most are processed in under 3 weeks.
  
  
• Processing paper returns may take 8 to 12 weeks.
  
  
• Note: If your return requires additional verification for security reasons, processing may take longer.

If your refund hasn't arrived within 12 weeks, contact the Wisconsin Department of Revenue at (608) 266-2772 for assistance.

Check Your Tax Account Balance

Log in to the My Tax Account system to access your account balance or payment history. You can also call the Customer Service Bureau for help with past due taxes or payment plan inquiries.

Final Filing Checklist 

Before submitting your Wisconsin tax return, ensure your filing is accurate and complete. Small errors can cause delays in processing or result in penalties.

For Individual Filers

• Confirm personal details: name, address, Social Security Number, and filing status.
  
  
• Attach W-2s, 1099s, and all required schedules.
  
  
• Double-check all math and ensure your estimated tax payments are reported correctly.
  
  
• Sign and date the return. For joint returns, both spouses must sign.
  
  
• If owed a refund, provide the correct direct deposit information.
  
  
• If payment is due, include Form PV and attach your payment if filing by mail.
  
  
• Attach a complete copy of your federal return (required for paper filing).
  
  

For Business Filers

• Verify business name, address, and FEIN.
  
  
• Use the correct business tax form based on your entity type.
  
  
• Include necessary schedules and supporting documentation.
  
  
• Accurately calculate any required apportionment for multi-state operations.
  
  
• Confirm that any economic development surcharge is included if required.
  
  
• Submit a signed return by an authorized officer or representative.
  
  
• Include estimated payments and a copy of your federal business return.
  
  

Common Filing Mistakes to Avoid

• Include your Social Security Number (SSN) or Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) to avoid processing delays or rejection of your return.
  
  
• Miscalculations in your totals or tax owed often lead to notices, adjustments, or penalties.
  
  
• Missing signatures on individual or business returns will make the return incomplete and not accepted.
  
  
• Forgetting to attach required forms, such as W-2s or supporting schedules, may prevent your return from being processed.
  
  
• Interest charges and collection actions may arise if you fail to include a payment when tax is due.
  
  
• Failing to keep a copy of your tax return and payment confirmation can create issues if you need to amend or verify your return later.

Following this checklist can help you file confidently and avoid unnecessary delays or issues with your tax return.

FAQs – Wisconsin State Tax Filing

What should I do if I missed the deadline for filing my Wisconsin tax return?

If you missed the date to file your Wisconsin tax return, you should file as soon as possible to reduce penalties and interest. If you cannot pay immediately, submitting your return avoids additional fees. You can access your tax account online to estimate what you owe. Late tax filing can be resolved with proper guidance and tax preparation options.

Can I file my Wisconsin taxes for free using the IRS Free File Program?

You may qualify for free electronic filing through the IRS Free File Program or Wisconsin’s Free File Alliance. These programs partner with approved tax software companies to help eligible taxpayers file their federal and Wisconsin returns at no cost. Using a computer or mobile device, you can easily prepare and file your taxes through these platforms.

Do I need a tax preparer, or can I file my taxes online?

You can file your taxes if you feel confident, especially with e-filing options that guide you through simple questions step by step. However, suppose you have complex income, deductions, or prior-year returns. In that case, you can achieve more accuracy and expert help by working with a tax preparer or using tax software backed by tax experts to complete your return with peace of mind.

How can I check the status of my Wisconsin tax refund?

You can check the status of your refund through your online tax account on the Wisconsin Department of Revenue’s website. You’ll need your Social Security Number, filing status, and the exact refund amount. Electronic filing allows you to receive your refund faster, often within three weeks. If you filed on paper, it may take longer to process due to mail and manual review.

What deductions can I claim to lower my Wisconsin income tax?

Wisconsin offers several deductions you can claim depending on your situation, including student loan interest, college savings contributions, and medical insurance premiums for self-employed individuals. You can also deduct specific retirement contributions and private school tuition. Reviewing eligible deductions can lower your taxable income and increase your refund. Always check the latest forms and program guidelines to learn what you may qualify for.

How do I amend my return if I find an error after filing?

If you discover an error after filing your Wisconsin return, you should file an amended return using the correct tax forms for the year. Make sure to acknowledge and explain the changes clearly, and include any documents that support your correction. You can file by paper or electronically if supported. Acting quickly helps reduce any additional taxes, interest, or delays in processing.

Is it safe to e-file my Wisconsin return through third-party tax software?

Trusted tax software companies approved by Wisconsin’s Department of Revenue provide secure electronic filing. These platforms use encryption and multi-step verification to protect personal data and refund information. When you create your username and complete your return, follow all instructions carefully to ensure accuracy. Using these tools provides reassurance and reduces the hassle of paper filing.