Decide on the legal structure of your business. See our business tax structure page. Common options include:

• Sole Proprietorship
• Partnership
• Limited Liability Company (LLC)
• C-Corporation (C-Corp)
• S-Corporation (S-Corp)
• Nonprofit

For more information, see our Tax Structure Guide!

Illinois does not require you to reserve a business name before registration, but it’s recommended to ensure your desired name is available:

• Check Name Availability: Illinois Business Entity Search
• Reserve a Business Name: Fee: $25 (online), $50 (paper).
  • File Online

Submit the necessary formation documents based on your business structure to the Illinois Secretary of State:

• LLC: File Articles of Organization.

  • • Fee: $150.
    • File Online

• Corporation: File Articles of Incorporation.

  • • Fee: $150.
    • File Online

If operating under a name different from your legal business name, register an Assumed Business Name (DBA) with the county clerk’s office where your business operates:

• Contact your local county clerk for details.
  • Find Clerk Information

If your business will hire employees or sell goods, register with the Illinois Department of Revenue:

• Sales and Use Tax Permit: Required for businesses selling taxable goods or services.
  • Register Online
• Employer Taxes: Register for withholding and unemployment taxes if you have employees.
  • Employer Registration

Certain businesses may require additional permits or licenses depending on their industry or location:

• Use Illinois's Business Portal for licensing information:
  • https://www2.illinois.gov/dceo

Separate your personal and business finances by opening a business bank account using:

• Your EIN (Employer Identification Number).
• Formation documents or operating agreement.

Annual Reports: LLCs and Corporations must file an Annual Report with the Illinois Secretary of State:

• Fee: $75 for LLCs, $75 for Corporations.
• File Online

• Illinois Secretary of State – Business Services: Visit here
• Illinois Department of Revenue: Visit here
• Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC): Visit here