How to start a business in Illinois

Starting a Business in Illinois

Illinois Business License: The process of business registration with the state will differ depending on the way you choose to structure your business. For instance, if you will operate as a Sole Proprietor, the business name is registered with your county clerk. You can find an online listing of county clerks at the State Board of Elections website. If you choose to structure your business as a corporation, the name is established when you form the corporation and fill out the appropriate paperwork (Articles on Incorporation) with the Illinois Secretary of State’s Department of Business Services. There are also other forms of business organization – such as Limited Partnership, Limited Liability Partnership (LLP), and others – and the name registration process can vary with each one.

City Licensing Requirements: Cities may require local business licenses. However, Illinois State does not issue City Business Licenses. You should contact your local city revenue office to learn about any required business licenses.

Illinois Corporations, LLCs & LLPs: To form a Corporation, LLCs and LLPs you need to contact Illinois Secretary of State's Corporations Division. Below is the list of resources.

Illinois Corporations Division Services: