Illinois LLC — Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to form an LLC in Illinois?
The state filing fee to form an LLC in Illinois is $150. That's priced in the middle of the national range for LLC filing fees. On top of that, plan for $75 each year in annual report fees. Formation runs $199 flat — covering Articles preparation and submission only. The $150 state fee, ongoing $99/year registered agent service, EIN application, and operating agreement template each stand alone.
How long does it take to form an LLC in Illinois?
Standard processing runs 5-10 business days. If you pay $100 for expedited service, you can usually get to 1 business day. We file on your behalf and notify you as soon as the Illinois Secretary of State processes the formation.
Does Illinois require an annual report for LLCs?
Yes, every year. The fee is $75. Missing the filing deadline can lead to late fees and eventually administrative dissolution by the Illinois Secretary of State.
Do I need a registered agent for my Illinois LLC?
Yes. Every LLC registered with the Illinois Secretary of State is required to maintain a registered agent with a physical Illinois address. This is true from the moment you file your formation documents and remains true for as long as the LLC exists. Our annual registered agent fee is $99, billed independently of the $199 formation service.
Can I form an LLC in Illinois if I live in another state?
Yes. You don't have to be an Illinois resident to form an Illinois LLC. You do, however, need a registered agent with a physical Illinois address — which our registered agent service covers at $99/year, billed separately.
Do I need an operating agreement for my Illinois LLC?
Illinois doesn't require you to file an operating agreement with the state, but you absolutely should have one. Banks require it to open a business account. Courts rely on it in disputes. Without one, Illinois's default LLC rules apply — which may not match your intentions. Our operating agreement template is a paid optional add-on, separately priced from formation.
How do I get an EIN for my Illinois LLC?
Apply directly on IRS.gov — it's free and takes about 10 minutes. You'll receive your EIN immediately after completing the online application. Never pay a third party for an EIN. Our EIN application help is a separately-priced add-on. Going direct via IRS.gov is also free and takes about ten minutes.
What's included in your formation service?
$199 covers Articles of Organization preparation and submission to the Illinois Secretary of State. The $150 state fee goes to the state. We offer registered agent service at $99/year separately. Operating agreement and EIN application assistance can be purchased independently.
Still Have Questions?
We're here to help. Reach out Monday through Friday and we'll answer any questions about forming an LLC in Illinois or how our services work.