Forming an LLC in Illinois costs $150 to file with the state. Ongoing, you file: Annual report ($75), anniversary month. Higher filing and report fees than neighboring states.
Illinois LLC at a glance
| State filing fee | $150 |
| Processing time | ~1-2 weeks; expedited available |
| Annual/biennial report | Annual report ($75), anniversary month |
| Franchise / annual tax | None |
| State income tax | Yes |
| State sales tax | 6.25% |
| Sales-tax economic nexus | $100,000 (transaction count repealed 2026) |
| Registered agent | Required (in-state address) |
| Publication requirement | No |
| Anonymous ownership | Not available (ownership is on record) |
Research snapshot last checked 2026-07-21. Fees and deadlines change - confirm on the Illinois Secretary of State and tax authority before filing.
Does Illinois fit your situation?
Illinois puts ownership on the public record, so it is not the choice if you need anonymity. It levies a state income tax. Higher filing and report fees than neighboring states.
If you do not live or operate in Illinois, remember that forming here while working elsewhere can create a second state registration (foreign qualification) and a second set of fees. For most non-residents the decision comes down to banking acceptance and total cost - see the best-state comparison.
Steps to form in Illinois
- Check name availability and appoint a Illinois registered agent.
- File the Articles of Organization ($150) with the state.
- Get an EIN from the IRS (Form SS-4 by fax or phone if you have no SSN).
- Confirm banking and payment eligibility for your residence country.
- Put the report on a calendar: Annual report ($75), anniversary month.
Generate your Illinois deadline calendar · Check your US tax obligations
Quick answers
Frequently asked questions
How much does an LLC cost in Illinois?
The state filing fee is $150. Ongoing you file annual report ($75), anniversary month. There is no separate franchise tax.
Does Illinois require an annual report?
Yes: Annual report ($75), anniversary month.
Is Illinois a good state for a non-resident LLC?
Higher filing and report fees than neighboring states. Base the decision on where you actually operate, banking acceptance and total cost, not only the filing fee.