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How to form an LLC in Illinois
$150 to file online (about 10 business days), then a $75 annual report.
Illinois LLC at a glance
| Formation document | Articles of Organization (Form LLC-5.5) |
|---|---|
| State filing fee | $150 (series LLC: $400) |
| Processing time | Standard online filing takes about 10 business days. 24-hour service costs $250 total ($150 + $100 expedite). |
| Registered agent | Your registered agent must live in Illinois (or be a business authorized to act as an agent there) and have a street address. A P.O. box or “c/o” alone isn’t accepted. You can be your own agent if you live in Illinois. |
| Annual report | $75. Due before the first day of your LLC’s anniversary month each year (penalties apply if it’s late). |
| Official filing site | Illinois Secretary of State — Business Services |
Filing online vs. by mail
File online with the Illinois Secretary of State (credit card, plus a payment processor fee) or on paper. Paper filings need a certified, cashier’s, or attorney’s/CPA’s check or a money order.
Registered agent
Your registered agent must live in Illinois (or be a business authorized to act as an agent there) and have a street address. A P.O. box or “c/o” alone isn’t accepted. You can be your own agent if you live in Illinois.
Should you be your own registered agent? →
After you form: ongoing requirements
- Annual report: $75. Due before the first day of your LLC’s anniversary month each year (penalties apply if it’s late).
Common Illinois gotchas
- Paper filings don’t accept personal checks. Use a certified/cashier’s check or money order, or just file online.
- The annual report deadline is tied to your formation anniversary month, not a fixed calendar date.
Do it yourself in Illinois
- Check your name in the state’s business search and make sure it includes “LLC” or “L.L.C.”
- Choose your registered agent using the rules above.
- File the Articles of Organization (Form LLC-5.5) at Illinois Secretary of State — Business Services and pay $150.
- Get a free EIN from the IRS. See our EIN guide.
- Calendar your ongoing filings so you don’t pay late fees.
Need the general walkthrough? Read how to form an LLC, step by step.
Sources
Fees and rules below come from official Illinois government sources, checked October 2026. Fees change, so always confirm on the state’s site before you pay.
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Last updated October 2026. General information only, not legal or tax advice.