Form an LLC in Illinois
We file your Articles of Organization, register an agent, and deliver your formation documents. Total cost from $279 on Standard.
State filing fee
$154
Typical processing
14 days
Annual report
$75 / yr
Illinois LLC formation runs through the Secretary of State Department of Business Services. The $154 filing fee is on the higher side, and the $75 annual report fee adds up over time. Processing is about two weeks at standard speed; expedited filing is available.
Illinois is a sensible choice for founders operating in Chicago or the broader Midwest. Out-of-state founders rarely pick Illinois without an existing reason because of the recurring fees.
Best for: Chicago and Midwest operators.
Cost & compliance breakdown
| State filing fee | $154 |
|---|---|
| Typical processing | 14 days |
| Annual report fee | $75 |
| Annual report due | On the formation anniversary |
| Premium expedited fee | $256 (3-day filing) |
- The $75 annual report makes Illinois one of the more expensive Midwest states to maintain.
- Premium plans use the $256 expedited state fee for three-business-day filing.
How we file your Illinois LLC
- 1
File Articles of Organization (Form LLC-5.5)
We file Form LLC-5.5 with the Illinois Secretary of State Business Services Department. The $154 fee is paid at submission.
- 2
EIN and operating agreement
EIN obtained from the IRS and a custom Illinois operating agreement is delivered.
- 3
Set up annual report tracking
Illinois annual reports are due during the anniversary month each year with a $75 fee.
What's included
Articles of Organization
Registered agent
EIN (Federal Tax ID)
Operating Agreement
Frequently asked questions
When is the Illinois annual report due?
During the LLC's anniversary month each year. The fee is $75.
Does Illinois have a franchise tax for LLCs?
No. The annual report fee is the only ongoing state-level fee for an LLC.
Can a non-resident own an Illinois LLC?
Yes. There are no residency requirements. An Illinois registered agent (provided by us) satisfies the in-state presence rule.
Compare with other states
The states founders most commonly weigh against Illinois.
Ready to form your Illinois LLC?
Total from $279 on Standard. Most founders finish the application in about 15 minutes.