Illinois is home to Chicago and a diverse economy spanning finance, manufacturing, technology, and agriculture. We guide you through the straightforward formation process.
Key filing details as of 2026. Fees and processing times are subject to change — verify with Secretary of State before filing.
Filing Fee
$150
Annual Fee
$75 annual report
Annual Due Date
Before the anniversary of formation
Processing Time
5–10 business days (standard)
Expedited Filing
Available
Filing Agency
Secretary of State
Annual Report Required
Yes
Publication Required
No
State Income Tax
Yes
Illinois boasts a highly diversified economy — from Chicago's financial district to agriculture, manufacturing, and a growing tech sector.
Located in the heart of the Midwest, Illinois provides excellent access to national markets via road, rail, and air.
The $150 filing fee and $75 annual report are moderate and predictable, making budgeting straightforward.
Illinois offers online filing for Articles of Organization, simplifying the formation process.
We guide you through each step — from name selection to getting your EIN.
Your name must include "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company" and be available in Illinois. We check availability for you.
Illinois requires a registered agent with a physical address in the state who is available during business hours.
We guide you through filing Articles of Organization with the Illinois Secretary of State — available online or by mail.
Obtain your federal EIN and draft a custom operating agreement. Illinois law permits, but does not require, an operating agreement.
Ready to form your LLC in Illinois? We guide you through every step.
Get StartedHonest factors to weigh when deciding whether Illinois is the right state for your LLC.
“Business Therapy & Advisory delivered a true five-star experience from start to finish. They handled my entire business formation and entity structure seamlessly, turning what could have been a complicated process into something clear, organized, and stress-free. We were referred by our accountant, and I couldn't be more grateful for that connection. The team made everything straightforward and efficient while still keeping things personable. They matched my sense of humor (which is no small task) while maintaining the right level of expertise and guidance, making the entire experience comfortable and collaborative. I fully plan to continue working with Business Therapy & Advisory for future needs and will confidently recommend their services to other business owners, as well as friends and family.”
Ian Harvey
Timeless Memorial Care, LLC
Have questions about Illinois LLC formation? We're here to help.
Talk to an AdvisorDisclaimer: The information on this page is for general guidance and is current as of 2026. Filing fees, processing times, and requirements are subject to change. We recommend verifying current requirements with the Secretary of State before filing. This content does not constitute legal or tax advice. Consult with a qualified attorney or tax professional for advice specific to your situation.
Schedule a free consultation and we'll guide you through every step — from choosing your entity type to Illinois compliance.