January 26, 2026
The Wisconsin Department of Revenue's new Real Estate Transfer Return (RETR) launched on Monday, January 12, 2026. This was a multi-year effort incorporating your feedback and recommendations. As you navigate the new RETR, below is a summary of the enhanced security and improved functionality.
Enhanced Security
RETR was transitioned from a legacy system to DOR's secure
My Tax Account (MTA) system. This change enhances overall system reliability while strengthening security protections, including:
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General public
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Use email address to file – no username/password required
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County officials
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Two-step authentication – you get a security code via email or text to login, or "trust this device" for frequent access
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Strong passwords – must be 8+ characters, case-sensitive, with uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and special characters, without reusing old passwords
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Unique credentials – each user needs their own username and password; profiles can't share emails
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Third party vendors
- Required to complete web service testing before receiving production access
Form Changes
Benefits of the new, modernized RETR:
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Guided filing – includes helpful prompts and autofill functionality based on selections, which reduces errors and streamlines the filing process
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New sections – additional fields were added to the RETR, such as "financing information" to support DOR's administration, and increase the accuracy of the data and collection of transfer fees
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Improved summary/confirmation – summary page displays all entered information for review before submission, and confirmation page clearly indicates receipt number for future reference
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Integrated processes – county officials can now complete all their RETR-related duties in one system (ex: view returns, record or re-record a return, file the P-520 Transmittal Report, pay transfer fee collections, and verify parcel numbers)
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Improved transparency – extracts real-time data, streamlined process with more options to download historical files and a more robust, user-friendly public search available through MTA
Questions or Feedback?