Modernization
Modernizing Services for Wisconsin
The Wisconsin Secretary of State’s Office is working to make public services easier to access, easier to understand, and more efficient for the residents, businesses, organizations, and local governments that rely on them.
Modernization means improving how people find information, complete common requests, and access official records.
Access Online Services
Search Public Records
What Modernization Means
For this office, modernization is not about changing the purpose of the Secretary of State’s Office. It is about improving how essential services are delivered.
Modernization efforts are focused on:
- Making services easier to find and use
- Expanding secure online service options
- Improving access to public records and office information
- Providing clearer instructions before users begin a request
- Supporting more efficient, transparent, and service-driven government
Current Modernization Efforts
The office has begun modernizing key services and public information tools to better serve Wisconsinites across the state. These improvements are designed to reduce confusion, save time, and make important services more accessible.
Online Services Portal
The office has launched an online services portal that gives users one place to start key requests, including Apostilles and Authentications, open records requests, scheduling requests, press inquiries, and public records searches. Users can log in with MyWisconsinID when required.
Online Apostille and Authentication Orders
Users seeking an Apostille or Authentication can begin an order online, complete payment through the portal, and then mail the required documents to the office for review and processing.
Public Records Access
A searchable public records database gives users access to official public records, including oaths of office, executive orders, and pardons. Users can search, review, download, and request certified copies through the portal.
Expanded Electronic Payments
The office has expanded payment options by accepting credit cards, debit cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay for in-person counter service.
Improved Certificate Security and Verification
The office has implemented a universal Apostille certificate designed to improve efficiency, security, and verification. The updated certificate includes instructions for accessing an e-Registry where recipients can verify authenticity.
Why This Work Matters
When public services are easier to understand, people spend less time searching for the right form, contacting the wrong office, or waiting for basic information.
Modernization helps the Secretary of State’s Office provide more efficient and transparent service to Wisconsinites while keeping essential public services accessible.
Continuing to Improve
Modernization is an ongoing process. The office will continue reviewing service information, digital tools, records access, and user instructions to identify practical ways to make information clearer and services easier to use.
The goal is simple: help Wisconsinites find what they need, understand the next step, and complete important requests with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Modernization means making the office’s services, public records tools, and service information easier to access, understand, and use.
Users can access online tools for Apostilles and Authentications, Apostille verification, open records requests, scheduling requests, press inquiries, and public records searches.
Users can begin an Apostille or Authentication order online and complete payment through the portal. Required documents must still be mailed to the office for review and processing.
The online public records database allows users to search, review, and download official public records. Certified copies can also be requested through the portal.
Yes. Users can contact the office by phone or email, and the website includes contact information for general questions, Apostilles and Authentications, press inquiries, record requests, and scheduling requests.
Start with the online services portal or the service area that best matches your request. If you are still unsure, contact the office and staff can help direct you to the right place.