Business License & Permit Requirements in Illinois

Illinois has both state-level and local licensing requirements. State-level registrations are handled through the Secretary of State and Department of Revenue, while cities and counties manage their own local business licenses and permits.

State-Level Licenses & Registration

Business Registration

Register your business entity (LLC, Corporation, Partnership) with the Illinois Secretary of State.

Illinois Business Registration

State Tax ID

Register for state tax obligations including income tax, sales tax, and employer taxes.

Illinois Tax Registration

Professional Licensing Boards

If your profession requires state licensure (healthcare, legal, accounting, engineering, real estate, etc.), you'll need to register with the appropriate Illinois licensing board.

Cities in Illinois

Chicago
2,693,976 residents

Key Illinois Agencies

Agency Purpose Website
Secretary of State Business entity registration Visit
Department of Revenue Tax registration & compliance Visit

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