Can I operate in Illinois with an out-of-state LLC?

Yes, you can operate in Illinois with an out-of-state LLC by registering as a foreign LLC with the Illinois Secretary of State. You must file an Application for Admission to Transact Business, pay a $150 registration fee, appoint a registered agent with a physical Illinois address, and provide a Certificate of Good Standing from your home state.

Registration Requirements

File your Application for Admission to Transact Business online at https://apps.ilsos.gov/llcarticles/index.jsp or mail to the Illinois Secretary of State, Department of Business Services, Limited Liability Division, 501 S. Second St., Rm. 350, Springfield, IL 62756. The one-time registration fee is $150. You must submit a current Certificate of Good Standing from your LLC's formation state with your application.

Registered Agent Requirement

Illinois law (805 ILCS 180/1-35 and 180/1-50) requires you to appoint and maintain a registered agent. Your agent must be either an individual residing in Illinois or a business entity authorized to transact business in Illinois. A member of your LLC may serve as registered agent. The agent must maintain a physical address in Illinois—P.O. boxes are not acceptable, and the Secretary of State cannot serve as your agent.

Ongoing Compliance

File an annual report each year with a $75 fee to maintain your registration. If you change your registered agent, file a Statement of Change of Registered Agent and/or Registered Office for a $25 fee. Keep your Certificate of Good Standing current from your home state. If you cease Illinois operations, file for withdrawal for a $5 fee.

Contact Information

Illinois Secretary of State
Department of Business Services, Limited Liability Division
Phone: (217) 524-8008
Website: https://www.ilsos.gov/
Business Entity Search: https://apps.ilsos.gov/businessentitysearch/

This is general information, not legal advice.