How to start an LLC in Illinois
Forming an LLC in Illinois costs $150 and online filings are typically approved in about 1–2 weeks online. Here's the whole process, step by step.
Filing fee
$150
One-time, paid to the state
Approval time
about 1–2 weeks online
Typical for online filings
Ongoing fee
$75/yr
What the state charges each year
Fees and processing times change — always confirm the current figures with the Illinois Secretary of State before you file.
The 4 steps in Illinois
Pick a name that works in Illinois
Your name must be distinguishable from other Illinois businesses and include a designator like “LLC” or “Limited Liability Company.” Search the Secretary of State's business database first.
File the paperwork
You file Articles of Organization with the Illinois Secretary of State's Department of Business Services, online or by mail. Online filing is the faster route. The filing fee is $150. Also write a simple operating agreement — it's free, and it keeps your liability protection clear.
Get your free EIN
Apply at IRS.gov and get your Employer Identification Number immediately, for free. You'll need it for taxes and your business bank account.
Open a business bank account
Bring your approved Articles of Organization, EIN, and operating agreement. Keeping business money separate is what makes the liability protection hold.
Optional: name a registered agent service
Every Illinois LLC needs a registered agent with a physical address in the state. You can be your own for free — or pay a service to keep your address private. Learn how registered agents work.
Illinois sits in the middle of the pack on cost: a $150 filing fee and a $75 annual report. Watch the anniversary-month deadline — filing late adds penalties.
File directly with the Illinois Secretary of State.
Common questions about Illinois LLCs
How much does it cost to start an LLC in Illinois?
The Illinois filing fee is $150, paid once when you submit your Articles of Organization. Getting your EIN from the IRS is free, and you can be your own registered agent for free. Ongoing, Illinois charges $75/yr. Fees change over time, so confirm the current amount on the Illinois Secretary of State website before you file.
How long does it take to get an LLC in Illinois?
Online filings are typically approved in about 1–2 weeks online, though times vary with the state's workload. Mail filings take longer. Check the Illinois Secretary of State website for current processing times.
Do I need a registered agent in Illinois?
Yes — every Illinois LLC must list a registered agent with a physical street address in the state. You can be your own agent for free, or hire a commercial service (roughly $100–$150 a year) to keep your address off the public record.
Does Illinois require an annual report?
Illinois' annual report costs $75 and is due before the first day of your LLC's anniversary month each year — file it online with the Secretary of State.
Can I form my Illinois LLC myself, without a service?
Yes. Filing directly with the Illinois Secretary of State is straightforward: pick a name, submit the Articles of Organization online, and pay the $150 fee. A formation service is optional convenience, not a requirement.
Where to go next
Ready to make your Illinois LLC official?
Grab the free checklist so nothing gets missed, or compare formation services.