How to Start an LLC in Illinois

How much does it cost to start an LLC in Illinois?

It costs $150 to start an LLC in Illinois. After formation, you will also owe $75/year for the File Your Annual Report.

What are these fees for?

• The $150 is to file the Articles of Organization — the document that officially creates your LLC.
• The $75/year is for the File Your Annual Report — a mandatory filing that keeps your LLC in good standing.

How long does it take to get an LLC in Illinois?

• Online filing: 10–15 business days
• Mail filing: 3–4 weeks

You can file online or by mail with the Illinois Secretary of State.

Steps to Form an LLC in Illinois

Step 1: Search Your LLC Name

Search your LLC name to make sure it's available in Illinois. Two businesses in the state cannot share the same name.

Illinois business name search →

Step 2: Choose a Registered Agent

A Registered Agent is a person or company that accepts legal mail and state notices on behalf of your LLC. Illinois requires your Registered Agent to have a physical street address in the state — PO Boxes are not allowed. Your options:

• Yourself (if you have a physical address in Illinois)
• A friend or family member who lives in Illinois
• A professional Registered Agent service

Step 3: File Articles of Organization with Secretary of State

To officially create your LLC, file the Articles of Organization with the Illinois Secretary of State. The filing fee is $150.

You can file online or by mail with the Illinois Secretary of State.

Step 4: Create an Operating Agreement

An Operating Agreement is an internal document that shows who owns the LLC and how it will be run. You do not need to file it with the state or the IRS — just keep it with your business records. All LLCs should have one, even single-member LLCs.

Step 5: Get an EIN from the IRS

An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is your LLC's federal tax ID. It is free from the IRS and is needed to open a business bank account, hire employees, and file taxes.

• US residents with an SSN: Apply online at IRS.gov (takes ~15 minutes, free)
• Non-US residents without an SSN: Apply by fax or mail using Form SS-4 (takes 1–3 months)

Step 6: File Your Annual Report

First due: Before the first day of the anniversary month in the year after formation

After Your LLC Is Approved

Open a business bank account

Keep business and personal finances separate to maintain liability protection. You will need your EIN and your stamped/approved Articles of Organization to open an account.

Get business licenses and permits

Illinois does not have a state general business license. However, your city or county may require a local business license.

Understand your tax obligations

LLCs don't pay federal income tax directly. Profits and losses pass through to the members, who report them on their personal federal tax returns.

Illinois has a state income tax. LLC members report their share of profits on their Illinois state tax return.

Illinois LLC FAQs