Cost to Form LLC in Illinois
Quick Answer
The total cost to form an LLC in Illinois ranges from $150 (DIY filing) to $500+ (using a formation service) in the first year, including mandatory state fees and optional services like registered agent and operating agreement preparation.
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Learn More →Total Cost: Year One
| Cost Category | DIY Approach | With Formation Service |
|---|---|---|
| Illinois State Filing Fee | $150 | $150 |
| Registered Agent Service | $0-$200 | $100-$300 |
| Operating Agreement | $0-$500 | Included-$200 |
| EIN Application | Free | $50-$100 |
| Business License | Varies | Varies |
| Total Estimated | $150-$850 | $300-$750 |
Costs as of April 13, 2026
Government Filing Fees
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| LLC Articles of Organization | $150 | Mandatory state filing fee |
| Processing Time | N/A | 5-10 business days |
| Name Reservation (Optional) | Contact SOS | If needed before filing |
| Expedited Processing | Contact SOS | For faster processing |
The Illinois Secretary of State requires a $150 filing fee for LLC formation, which covers the mandatory Articles of Organization filing. This fee is payable online, by mail, or in person. Processing typically takes 5-10 business days for standard filings.
Optional Costs
While Illinois keeps mandatory costs low, several optional services can enhance your LLC’s compliance and operations:
Registered Agent Service: $100-$300/year Illinois requires every LLC to maintain a registered agent with an Illinois address. You can serve as your own registered agent for free, but many business owners prefer hiring a professional service for privacy and reliability.
Operating Agreement: $200-$500 Although Illinois doesn’t require an operating agreement, having one protects your limited liability status and clarifies member responsibilities. DIY templates cost $50-$100, while attorney-drafted agreements range from $300-$500.
EIN (Federal Tax ID): Free-$100 You can obtain an Employer Identification Number directly from the IRS at no cost. Formation services typically charge $50-$100 for this free service.
Business Licenses: Varies Licensing costs depend on your industry and location. Contact your city and county offices to determine specific requirements.
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Learn More →Annual Ongoing Costs
Illinois LLCs face the following recurring expenses:
| Annual Cost | Amount | Due Date |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Report | $75 | Between January 1 and April 1 |
| Registered Agent Renewal | $100-$300 | If using a service |
| State Income Tax | 4.95% flat rate | On LLC profits |
The $75 annual report fee is due every year between January 1 and April 1. Illinois imposes a flat 4.95% income tax rate on LLC profits, though the LLC itself doesn’t pay this tax—it passes through to members’ personal returns.
DIY vs. Formation Service Comparison
DIY Filing ($150 minimum):
- Pros: Lowest upfront cost, full control over process
- Cons: Requires research, no ongoing support, potential for errors
- Best for: Cost-conscious entrepreneurs comfortable with paperwork
Formation Service ($300-$750):
- Pros: Expert guidance, included services, ongoing support
- Cons: Higher cost, less direct control
- Best for: Busy professionals wanting convenience and peace of mind
Formation services typically include registered agent service for the first year, operating agreement templates, and EIN filing assistance, which can justify the additional cost for many business owners.
Cheapest States Comparison
| State | Formation Fee | Annual Fee | Total Year 1 (DIY) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wyoming | $100 | $50 | $150 |
| Colorado | $50 | $10 | $60 |
| Mississippi | $50 | $0 | $50 |
| Kentucky | $40 | $15 | $55 |
| Arkansas | $45 | $150 | $195 |
| Illinois | $150 | $75 | $225 |
While Illinois isn’t among the cheapest states for LLC formation, its $150 filing fee is competitive with major business hubs. The state’s central location, business-friendly infrastructure, and straightforward formation process often offset the moderate costs.
Related Guides
- Cost to Form LLC in New York 2026: Complete Fee Breakdown
- Cost to Form LLC in Florida 2026: Complete Fee Breakdown
- Cost to Form LLC in Georgia 2026: Complete Fee Breakdown
- Cost to Form LLC in North Carolina 2026: Complete Fee Guide
- How to Form LLC in California 2026: Complete Guide ($70 Fee)
FAQ
How long does it take to form an LLC in Illinois?
Standard LLC formation in Illinois takes 5-10 business days after the Secretary of State receives your Articles of Organization. Expedited processing may be available for an additional fee—contact the Illinois Secretary of State for current expedited options and pricing.
Can I be my own registered agent in Illinois?
Yes, you can serve as your own registered agent if you have an Illinois address and are available during business hours to receive legal documents. However, many business owners prefer hiring a professional registered agent service for privacy and reliability, especially if they travel frequently or work from home.
Do I need an operating agreement for my Illinois LLC?
Illinois law doesn’t require an operating agreement, but it’s highly recommended. An operating agreement protects your limited liability status, clarifies member roles and responsibilities, and can prevent disputes. Without one, your LLC will be governed by Illinois’s default LLC statutes.
What’s the difference between an LLC and corporation in Illinois?
Both LLCs and corporations in Illinois have the same $150 formation fee and $75 annual report requirement. However, LLCs offer more operational flexibility and pass-through taxation, while corporations provide more structure and easier access to investment capital. The choice depends on your business goals and tax situation.
When is the Illinois LLC annual report due?
Illinois LLC annual reports are due between January 1 and April 1 each year, with a $75 fee. Late filing results in penalties and potential administrative dissolution. The report can be filed online through the Illinois Secretary of State website.
Does Illinois require LLC publication?
No, Illinois doesn’t require LLCs to publish formation notices in newspapers, unlike some states such as New York and Arizona. This saves Illinois LLC owners several hundred dollars compared to publication-required states.
Can I change my LLC name after formation?
Yes, you can change your Illinois LLC name by filing Articles of Amendment with the Secretary of State. The filing fee and processing requirements may vary—contact the Illinois Secretary of State for current amendment procedures and costs.
What taxes does an Illinois LLC pay?
Illinois LLCs are pass-through entities for tax purposes, meaning the LLC itself doesn’t pay income tax. Instead, profits and losses pass through to members’ personal tax returns, where they’re subject to Illinois’s 4.95% flat income tax rate. The LLC may also need to collect and remit sales tax if selling taxable goods or services.
state registered agent service — $125/year, privacy included
Learn More →This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal or tax advice. Consult with an attorney or accountant for guidance specific to your business situation. Data current as of April 13, 2026.