How to File an LLC in Illinois

Forming an Illinois LLC is a smooth process thanks to the Illinois Secretary of State’s online filing system. Whether you’re a resident or forming a business from out of state, registering an LLC Illinois is fast, reliable, and offers strong liability protection.

Below is a clear, step-by-step guide on how to file LLC in Illinois correctly.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Start an LLC in Illinois

1. Choose and Confirm Your Illinois LLC Name

Start by selecting a business name that follows Illinois naming rules and is distinguishable from existing entities.
Use the Illinois Business Entity Search on the Secretary of State website to check availability.

If the name is available, Illinois allows you to reserve it for 90 days by filing an optional Name Reservation form.

2. Appoint a Registered Agent in Illinois

All Illinois LLCs must designate a registered agent with a physical street address in Illinois (no P.O. boxes).

Your Illinois registered agent will receive:

• Official state notices
  
• Legal documents
  
• Compliance reminders
  

You can serve as your own registered agent if you have an Illinois address, but many business owners choose a professional service for privacy and convenience.

3. File the Articles of Organization

To officially create your Illinois LLC, submit the Articles of Organization (Form LLC-5.5) with the Secretary of State on their online Business filing portal

Filing Fees:

• $150 online (standard)
  
• Processing times are generally faster online through the CyberDrive Illinois portal.
  

You will need to provide:

• LLC’s legal name
  
• Registered agent name and Illinois address
  
• Organizer/manager details
  
• Management structure (member-managed or manager-managed)
  

4. Save Your Approval Documents

Once approved, download and keep the following:

• Your stamped Articles of Organization
  
• Payment receipt
  
• Illinois SOS confirmation email
  

These documents are essential for banking, licensing, and proving your LLC’s legal existence.

5. Obtain an EIN (Employer Identification Number)

Next, apply for an EIN through the IRS website. This federal tax ID is free and issued immediately.

You need an EIN for:

• Opening a business bank account
  
• Filing federal taxes
  
• Hiring employees
  

6. Draft an Operating Agreement (Highly Recommended)

Illinois does not legally require an Operating Agreement, but having one helps maintain structure and prevent disputes.

Your Operating Agreement should include:

• Ownership breakdown and member roles
  
• Voting rights
  
• Profit/loss distribution
  
• Procedures for adding/removing members
  
• Dissolution guidelines
  

This document strengthens your limited liability protection and clarifies internal operations.

7. File Illinois Annual Reports

To keep your Illinois LLC active, you must file an Annual Report every year.

Annual Report Fee: $75
Due Date: Before the first day of your LLC’s anniversary month
Example: Formed in June → file before June 1 every year.

Failure to file can lead to late fees and eventual administrative dissolution.

You may also need local licenses or state tax registrations depending on your industry.

Summary: Illinois LLC Essentials

Requirement / Step	Details
Name Availability	Search using the Illinois Entity Search Tool
Registered Agent	Must have an Illinois physical address
Formation Filing Fee	$150 (online)
Operating Agreement	Recommended, not required
EIN	Free from IRS
Annual Report	Required yearly
Annual Report Fee	$75
Due Date	Before anniversary month begins

Final Thoughts

Forming an LLC in Illinois is straightforward, affordable, and offers excellent liability protection. By choosing a dependable registered agent, staying organized with your formation documents, obtaining an EIN, preparing a strong Operating Agreement, and filing your Annual Report on time, your Illinois LLC will remain compliant and positioned for long-term growth.