Fund oversight

WisTAF originated in 1986 with the establishment of the state's Interest on Lawyers' Trust Accounts (IOLTA) program, a then-new funding mechanism for helping people of limited means to access the legal system. The legacy of that moment is our expertise in developing, managing, and investing IOLTA and other funds to increase access to justice in Wisconsin. 

WisTAF disbursed nearly $9 million in 2023 that helped organizations serve more than 15,000 clients across Wisconsin during the year. 

The recent addition of federal pass-through funding to WisTAF’s available grant sources has made it possible for legal aid providers to significantly expand their reach. However, funding still falls far short of what is needed to address civil legal needs of Wisconsin families of limited means. Many of our current federal pass-through fund sources will sunset by the end of 2025.

Other newer fund sources include Public Interest Legal Services Fund contributions from Bar members, pro hac vice and cy pres distributions, as well as private contributions.