⚡ Wisconsin Jury Duty Pay — Quick Facts
If you've received a jury summons in Wisconsin, you're probably wondering: how much will I actually get paid? This guide covers everything Wisconsin jurors need to know about jury duty compensation in 2025 — from the state court's daily fee schedule to mileage reimbursement and employer obligations.
✅ Quick Answer: Wisconsin state courts pay jurors $16/day. Mileage is reimbursed at $0.25/mi. Employer pay is NOT required. You cannot be fired for serving jury duty in Wisconsin.
Wisconsin Jury Duty Pay Schedule
Wisconsin's jury duty pay is set by state statute and applies to all state-level courts. Federal courts operating in Wisconsin follow the federal pay schedule ($50/day for days 1–10, $60/day thereafter), which is separate.
| Service Type | Daily Pay | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin State Court | $16/day | Standard state rate |
| Federal Court (in Wisconsin) | $50–$60/day | Separate from state court |
| Grand Jury (Wisconsin) | $16/day | Same rate, longer duration |
| Mileage Reimbursement | $0.25/mi | Travel to courthouse |
Important note: Wisconsin pays $16/day with standard mileage reimbursement.
Mileage Reimbursement in Wisconsin
The court reimburses jurors at $0.25/mi for travel to the courthouse. You must track your mileage each day and submit a mileage log to the jury clerk at the end of your service. Keep all parking receipts as many courts reimburse parking separately.
Example Calculation
If you live 20 miles from the courthouse and serve for 4 days:
- Court pay: 4 × $16 = calculated by your state rate
- Mileage: 20 miles × $0.25/mi × 4 days
- Use our Pay Calculator for exact totals
Does Your Employer Have to Pay You in Wisconsin?
The answer in Wisconsin: ❌ Not Required by state law (employer's discretion).
While not legally required, many large employers in Wisconsin voluntarily provide full or partial pay during jury duty. Always check your employee handbook or HR policy before assuming you won't be compensated.
💡 Pro Tip: Even though Wisconsin doesn't require it, many large companies and government employers provide full jury duty pay voluntarily. Always ask HR or check your handbook before your service begins.
Your Legal Rights as a Wisconsin Juror
Wisconsin, like all US states, has anti-retaliation laws protecting jurors from employment consequences:
- Your employer cannot fire you for serving on a jury
- Your employer cannot threaten, demote, or penalize you
- You are entitled to return to your same position after service ends
- Benefits (health insurance, retirement) continue during your service period
- If retaliated against, you can seek legal remedies including reinstatement and back pay
Can You Get Excused from Jury Duty in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin courts allow jurors to request postponement or hardship exemptions. Generally accepted reasons include:
- Extreme financial hardship (especially self-employed individuals with documented income loss)
- Primary caregiver with no alternative childcare arrangements
- Medical conditions verified by a physician's letter
- Pre-scheduled travel that cannot be reasonably postponed
- Prior jury service within a disqualifying period
Contact your local Wisconsin court or check your jury summons for the specific postponement process.
Is Jury Duty Pay Taxable in Wisconsin?
Yes. Jury duty pay received from Wisconsin courts is taxable ordinary income and must be reported on your federal tax return (Form 1040). If your state has an income tax, it is likely taxable at the state level as well.
Exception: if your employer requires you to remit your court stipend to them because they are paying your full salary, you can deduct the amount you return from your federal taxable income.
📋 Tax Tip: Keep all jury duty payment receipts from the Wisconsin courthouse. The court may issue a 1099-G or similar document if your total pay exceeds certain thresholds.
Jury Duty Pay in Major Wisconsin Cities & Counties
While the state court rate of $16/day applies across Wisconsin, the specific courthouse you report to depends on your county of residence. Here are the most active jury courts in Wisconsin:
🏙️ Major Cities Covered
🗺️ County Courts in Wisconsin
Regardless of which county or city you serve in, the base state compensation is $16/day. Some counties may have slightly different parking reimbursement policies — always verify with your summons.
Frequently Asked Questions — Wisconsin Jury Duty
How much do you get paid for jury duty in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin state courts pay jurors $16/day. Federal courts in Wisconsin pay $50/day (days 1–10) and $60/day after 10 days. Mileage reimbursement is $0.25/mi.
What if I'm self-employed and called for jury duty in Wisconsin?
Self-employed individuals in Wisconsin receive only the standard court stipend of $16/day — there is no employer to supplement it. If your business income will be significantly impacted, you may apply for a financial hardship exemption. Document your income loss carefully for the court.
Does Wisconsin require grand jury pay?
Grand jurors in Wisconsin generally receive the same $16/day rate as regular trial jurors. However, since grand jury service can last many months, it creates more significant financial impact. Wisconsin courts may offer additional hardship considerations for extended grand jury service.
Where do I report for jury duty in Wisconsin?
Your summons specifies the exact courthouse. Wisconsin's major jury courts are located in Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, Kenosha, Racine. Always confirm your reporting location on your official summons document — never assume based on proximity.
Calculate Your Wisconsin Jury Duty Pay
Use our free calculator to estimate your exact compensation including employer pay and mileage reimbursement.
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