How to Form an LLC in Illinois Yourself (2026 Costs and Steps)

Quick answer

The filing fee for an Illinois LLC is $150 online or by mail. You can file the Articles of Organization with the Illinois Secretary of State, Department of Business Services at https://www.ilsos.gov/departments/business_services/home.html.

Step 1: Check that your LLC name is available

Search the agency's business name records before filing to ensure your desired name is available.

Step 2: Choose a registered agent

You may serve as your own registered agent if you are an individual resident of Illinois or another person authorized to transact business in Illinois, maintaining a registered office in Illinois with a street address or rural route number. Alternatively, you can choose any qualified individual or entity that meets these criteria.

Step 3: File your Articles of Organization

File the Articles of Organization with the Illinois Secretary of State, Department of Business Services. The filing fee is $150 whether you file online or by mail. If you need expedited processing, you may pay an additional $100 for same-day or within-24-hours service.

Step 4: Create an operating agreement

Create an operating agreement to outline the internal structure of your LLC. This document typically covers ownership percentages, member roles and responsibilities, voting procedures, and what happens if a member leaves the company.

Step 5: Get your EIN from the IRS

Get your Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS for free at https://www.irs.gov/ein.

Step 6: Keep your LLC in good standing

File an Annual Report with the Illinois Secretary of State every year. The fee is $75, plus an additional $50 per active series for series LLCs. The report is due within the 60 days immediately preceding the first day of the LLC's anniversary month. It becomes delinquent if not filed before the first day of the anniversary month and may incur a penalty.