The database is updated regularly, providing a comprehensive look at executive, legislative, and judicial branch employee pay, as well as university system staff. ## Submitting a Public Records Request If the specific salary information you need is not available on the public portal—such as historical records or detailed breakdowns of benefits—you can request this information directly from the state. Under the Wisconsin Public Records Law, any record keeper of a state authority must provide public records upon request, unless a specific statutory exemption applies. To submit a request: 1. Identify the specific state agency that employs the individual (such as the Department of Natural Resources or the Department of Transportation). 2. Locate the public records custodian for that agency, which is usually listed on the agency's official website. 3. Submit a written request detailing the specific salary, hourly wage, or compensation records you are seeking. 4. Allow the agency reasonable time to locate and compile the records. Note that while viewing records is generally free, agencies may charge nominal fees for photocopying or location costs if the request is large.
## University of Wisconsin System Salaries Employees of the University of Wisconsin (UW) System are state employees, meaning their salary details are also public record. While these salaries are included in the general state databases, they can also be accessed through university-specific resources. The UW System publishes its annual budget, often referred to as the "Red Book," which details the operating budget and lists the salaries of university faculty, staff, and administrators. Many university libraries and administration offices maintain copies of these documents, and digital versions are frequently hosted on the UW System's official website. ## Alternative and Third-Party Databases
Several non-governmental organizations and news outlets compile Wisconsin public salary data into searchable online tools. These platforms often merge state, county, and municipal payrolls into a single search engine. * **Transparency Watchdogs:** National and local non-profit organizations regularly request state payroll data and publish it online to promote government accountability. * **News Media Outlets:** Local Wisconsin newspapers and investigative journalism groups frequently maintain public salary databases on their websites, allowing users to search by school district, municipality, or state agency. While third-party databases are convenient, users should verify the date of the last update, as these platforms may not reflect real-time changes in employment status or recent pay adjustments. ## What Information is Protected?
While compensation paid with taxpayer funds is public, certain personal details of state employees remain confidential. Under state law, public records custodians must redact sensitive personal information before releasing payroll records. Protected information typically includes: * Home addresses and personal telephone numbers. * Social Security numbers. * Personal financial or bank account information used for direct deposit. * Specific medical, health insurance, or retirement plan selections. This balance ensures that while government spending remains transparent, the personal security and privacy of state employees are protected.
