Can I Form an LLC Online in Illinois?

Yes. Illinois allows full online LLC formation through the Secretary of State's Department of Business Services. File your Articles of Organization at https://apps.ilsos.gov/llcarticles/index.jsp. Standard processing takes approximately 10 business days with a $150 filing fee, or add $100 for 24-hour expedited service (805 ILCS 180/5-5, 805 ILCS 180/5-40).

What You Must Include

Your Articles of Organization must contain your LLC name with an approved designator (LLC, Limited Liability Company, or L.L.C.), principal place of business address, registered agent name and Illinois registered office address, LLC purpose, names and business addresses of initial managers or members with manager authority, and organizer information. You may specify an effective date or file for immediate effectiveness.

Name Requirements

Your name must be distinguishable from existing domestic and foreign LLCs, corporations, assumed names, and reserved names on file with the Secretary of State (805 ILCS 180/1-10). Avoid restricted words including Corporation, Bank, Trust, Insurance, and Limited Partnership. Search available names free at https://apps.ilsos.gov/businessentitysearch/ before filing. Reserve a name for 90 days for $25 if needed.

Who Can Organize

One or more organizers may form an Illinois LLC. Each organizer must be at least 18 years old or another business entity. Foreign owners are permitted.

After Formation

If you operate under a name different from your LLC's legal name, file an assumed name (DBA) with the Secretary of State for $120.

Contact Information

Illinois Secretary of State, Department of Business Services, Limited Liability Division: (217) 524-8008 or https://www.ilsos.gov/.

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This is general information, not legal advice.