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Wisconsin mandates online portal for applications

Dec 8, 2025

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) Division of Quality Assurance (DQA) is implementing a new mandatory online portal for licensure and certification submissions. Effective December 15, 2025, providers across several service areas must transition away from paper-based applications and plan reviews to this digital system.

Mandatory portal use for multiple provider types

Assisted living facilities, adult day care centers, personal care agencies, and substance-use and mental health treatment providers are among those required to submit licensure, certification, amendments, renewals, and plan-review documents exclusively through the new DHS DQA Provider Portal. This shift aims to streamline regulatory processes and reduce delays caused by traditional mail or email submissions.

Background checks and plan submissions now online

In addition to application materials, background-check requests for entity operators, on-site non-client residents, and associated individuals linked to licensing must also utilize the portal starting December 15. Providers regulated under DQA, including community-based residential facilities (CBRF) and residential care apartment complexes (RCAC), must route all plan submissions—covering construction, remodeling, HVAC, and fire safety—through the portal when these are tied to licensure or compliance approval.

Transition timeline and compliance reminder

As of November 22, 2025, DQA ceased accepting any paper or emailed applications or plan-review materials. Documents received after this date will be held and not processed until the web portal becomes active. Providers preparing for upcoming licensure or renewal activities should prioritize gaining access to the DHS DQA portal to ensure uninterrupted processing.

This digital transition represents a significant policy update affecting a broad range of Wisconsin health and residential service providers. Timely adaptation to the online system will be critical for maintaining compliance with state requirements.