How to Conduct an Illinois Business Entity Search

As of 2023, the U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Advocacy reports that Illinois had 1.3 million small businesses. That figure accounts for 99.6% of all companies in the state. These businesses employ 44.1% of Illinois employees.

Registering a business in Illinois offers many benefits, such as personal asset protection from business liabilities, enhanced credibility and legitimacy with customers and partners, and access to specific state tax credits and incentives, including programs like EDGE (Economic Development for a Growing Economy). It also facilitates important functions, such as opening business bank accounts and applying for loans. Owning a registered business can also make it easier to raise capital. Incorporation allows companies to continue operating in perpetuity, independent of their owners. Illinois also allows owners to deduct start-up costs over time, including legal and accounting fees.

The most common types of businesses in Illinois are in transportation and warehousing, professional, scientific, and technical services, and other services. The state also has a strong presence in key industries like technology, agribusiness, manufacturing, and finance and insurance, and is home to many large corporations. Almost 99.94 percent of all construction firms in Illinois are classified as small businesses.

Allowable Entity Types in Illinois

Illinois allows for several business entity types, including Sole Proprietorships, Partnerships, Corporations (including S corporations and C corporations), Limited Liability Companies (LLCs), and not-for-profit corporations. These structures differ in liability, governance, and tax implications, so be careful when choosing one that aligns with your business's specific needs.

The most common type of business entity in Illinois is the sole proprietorship, mainly because it is the simplest and least expensive to establish. It is easy to set up and run, as it is not a separate legal entity from its owner, and profits are reported on the owner's personal tax return. While sole proprietorships are the most common, many entrepreneurs in Illinois choose other structures, such as LLCs or corporations, to limit their personal liability for business debts.

Why Search for an Illinois Business Entity

Some reasons to search for an Illinois business entity include confirming a business name is available for registration, researching an existing company's details, and verifying compliance with state regulations. This search is crucial before registering a new company to ensure the name is not already in use and to avoid rejection of your registration by the Illinois Secretary of State. The Illinois Secretary of State's website provides a free tool to perform this search.

Some of the reasons to search for an Illinois business entity are:

• Check Name Availability: You can confirm that no other company is using the exact or a similar name. This step is required to register a new business in Illinois.
• Gather Business Information: You can find details about an existing company, such as its official name, address, registered agent, and formation date.
• Verify Compliance and Status: You can check the status of a business to see if it is "active" or "inactive" and confirm its good standing with the state.
• Research Competitors: It is a valuable tool for researching other businesses in the state for various purposes.
• Find Legal Information: The search can provide information on a business's past names, managers, and other public filings.
• Performing Due Diligence: To research potential partners, suppliers, or competitors, and to check the legitimacy of a company before investing.
• Market Analysis: To understand the competitive landscape by reviewing existing businesses in a particular industry.
• Ensure Legal Compliance: Registering a unique name is a requirement for forming an LLC or corporation. Searching beforehand is a necessary step to comply with these rules and avoid legal issues later on.
• Track Your Own Business Registration: You can also use the search to find details about a business you already own, such as its registration number or filing history.
• Prevent Legal Issues: Searching for an existing entity helps you avoid legal battles over trademark infringement and other name-related disputes.
• Ensure Tax Compliance: A unique business name is crucial for tax purposes, as it ensures your business is correctly identified and associated with its tax obligations.
• Confirm Registered Agent Information: Use the search to find the registered agent for an existing company.
• Investigate Potential Partners or Competitors: Researching a company can help you understand its history, structure, and regulatory compliance before making a business decision and jeopardizing your own company.
• Name Reservations: To see if a preferred name is available to be reserved for a limited time, which can help secure a domain name and other branding elements while preparing to register the business formally.
• Before Investing: Conducting thorough due diligence when acquiring or investing in a business.
• Trademarks: Searching for registered trademarks to avoid conflicts.

How to Search for Business Entities

Whether you are confirming a business's legitimacy, researching a potential business partner, or simply conducting your due diligence, uncovering the details of Illinois business entities is straightforward. To search for Illinois business entities, visit the Illinois Secretary of State's Website and go to the Illinois Secretary of State's business entity search page.

The first step when searching is to choose your criteria. You can select from the following ways to search:

• Business Name: The full or partial name of the business.
• Registered Agent: Name of the entity's registered agent.
• President: Name of the business entity's president.
• Secretary: Name of the secretary listed on the business registration.
• Manager: Search by listed business manager(s).
• File Number: The business's unique file number assigned by the Secretary of State.
• Keyword: Search using keywords related to the business.
• Partial Word: Search using fragments of the business name.

Then review the results.

What Information Can You Find with the Secretary of State?

Enter your search criteria and click the "submit" button for a list of matching entities. In addition to the entity name, the search results will display the entity's filing number, entity type, entity status, registered effective date, and the registered agent. Clicking on a specific name generally provides more detailed information about the business entity.

How to Access Detailed Information

Once you click on a business name in the search results, you'll be able to view more detailed information about the entity, including, but not limited to:

• Principal Address: The main office or location of the business.
• Entity Managers: A list of all managers associated with the business.
• Other Business Names: Includes other associated names such as previous LLC names, assumed names, and series names.
• Filing History: A complete history of online filings related to the business and its registration.

Contact the Illinois Secretary of State's office if you need assistance navigating the Illinois business entity search process.

Additional information you can find with the Secretary of State's Office is:

• Service Options: Online searches, filings, document requests, and status reports.
• Name Reservations: For a $5 fee, you may reserve a business name for up to 90 days.
• Forms & Fees: Business forms, document samples, and fee schedules.
• Certificates of Good Standing: A corporation may obtain a certificate of good standing for $25 ($5 for not-for-profits).
• Statements of Information: Annual reports and other disclosure requirements for LLCs and corporations.
• Scam Services: Information about scams targeting Illinois businesses and consumers.
• Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) Information: Access to UCC filings and searches for managing liens and secured transactions.

What Business Entity Information is Not Public

You can find a registered business name, principal place of business, registered agent, and business entity type quite easily, but some other kinds of information in Illinois are private. In Illinois, private information that is not public in business entity records includes the names of individual members or managers of a limited liability company (LLC) and the names of shareholders in a corporation. The Illinois Secretary of State does not require owners' names to be made public. Additionally, information related to business proposals, bids, or proprietary data, such as trade secrets and formulas, is considered private.

Some of the things that are not public in Illinois include:

• Members/Managers of an LLC: Unlike some other states, Illinois does not require the names of an LLC's members or managers to be listed in the public record.
• Shareholders of a Corporation: The names of individual shareholders are not part of the public record in Illinois.
• Internal Company Information: Documents such as proposals, bids, and proprietary data, including valuable formulas, computer geographic systems, designs, drawings, and research data, are not public.
• Trade Secrets: Formulas, processes, methods, or other proprietary information that derives economic value from not being generally known to the public and is the subject of reasonable efforts to maintain its secrecy.
• Private Employee Medical Records: Medical and health insurance information.
• Customer and Employee Identifying Information: Identifying information like Social Security Numbers, driver's license numbers, and passport numbers.
• Revenue and Profit Numbers (unless a public company): Smaller companies that are not publicly traded can keep their financial data private.
• Financial Data: Bank and credit card numbers, as well as loan information.

How to Find EIN and UCC Records in Illinois

Search government filings with the Illinois Secretary of State and available public records to find an EIN in Illinois. If it is your company, you can check W-2s, tax returns, and other documents, like bank statements, to find your specific EIN. You may also contact the IRS for this information. You can also use the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search for non-profits, the SEC's EDGAR database for public companies.

Try using EntityCheck's EIN Lookup tool to find Illinois EIN records.

To find UCC records in Illinois, go to the Illinois Secretary of State's website and use their online search tool, typically found in the "UCC" or "Public Records" section. You will need the debtor's name, and for more detailed or direct searches, you may need to look for a specific document number, although some states may require a subscription for full access.

You can also try using EntityCheck's UCC Filings search tool.

How to Find DBA Records in Illinois

To find DBA (assumed business name) records in Illinois, use the Illinois Secretary of State's Business Entity Search tool for LLCs and corporations or the county clerk's website for individuals and unincorporated businesses. The specific search tool to use depends on the business's legal structure and registration level.

EntityCheck Business Background Check Goes Further

An even more insightful way to search for Illinois business entities and access additional information is to utilize EntityCheck's powerful search engine. Search quickly and easily by business name, EIN, owner, phone number, or email address. Along with the information above, you can dig deeper to find incredibly illuminating details such as:

• 
  UCC Filings

  Discover Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) filings, showing creditors' attachment to business assets. These files provide insight into the organization's financial stability by examining its standing debts and the risks they entail. Also find lien details, creditor and debtor information, filing and expiration dates, and collateral and asset claims.

• 
  Court Cases

  Evaluate a company's legal record to assess potential risks associated with its operations and identify any outstanding issues. Review bankruptcy filings, liens and judgments, federal court cases, litigation, and legal history of ongoing and past court cases.

• 
  Licenses

  Verify business credentials, including licenses, permits, and government certifications, as well as the educational backgrounds of decision-makers, to assess credibility.

• 
  Filing & Compliance

  Review a company's financial performance reports, DBAs (Doing Business As), and government Tax IDs.

• 
  Trademarks & Patents

  Find out what intellectual properties a company controls and review the details of any trademarks and patents it holds.

• 
  Registered Individuals

  Identify key decision-makers, registered agents, corporate officers, and leadership, even if this information is not readily available through official records.

Alternative Resources Beyond the SOS (Secretary of State) Search

The Illinois Secretary of State maintains volumes of business data. However, that is not the only source you should check when researching an Illinois company. Other government offices and agencies also hold business data.

The following agencies may hold vital information about Illinois business entities:

• Illinois Secretary of State: The Illinois Secretary of State's office handles a wide range of duties, including issuing driver's licenses and vehicle registrations, incorporating businesses, and maintaining official state records. The office also manages senior services, administers the organ donor registry, and supports literacy programs. Additionally, the office has a dedicated police department that specializes in auto theft and vehicle-related consumer fraud.
• Illinois Department of Revenue: The Illinois Department of Revenue administers Illinois tax laws by collecting tax revenue in a fair, consistent, and efficient manner. The office provides accurate and reliable funding information promptly to serve Illinois taxpayers and businesses.
• Illinois State Bar Association: The Illinois State Bar Association (ISBA) is a voluntary organization that advocates for the legal profession, improves the administration of justice, and serves both lawyers and the public in Illinois. It accomplishes this by proposing and monitoring legislation, supporting the rule of law, maintaining professional standards, providing resources and education for lawyers, and offering public services such as lawyer referral services and information about legal rights.
• Illinois Uniform Commercial Code Filing Division: The Illinois Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) Filing Division, administered by the Illinois Secretary of State, handles the public filing and maintenance of legal notices related to secured transactions, such as financing statements and liens. Its main functions are to serve as a public record of creditors' claims on a debtor's personal property (collateral), provide a searchable database to identify existing liens, and manage the administrative details of filing and updating these documents.
• Illinois State Department of Insurance: The Illinois Department of Insurance (IDOI) protects consumers and regulates the insurance industry in the state. Its main functions include investigating and resolving consumer complaints, ensuring the financial solvency and market behavior of insurance companies, and fostering a competitive insurance marketplace. The IDOI also provides consumer assistance, information, and educational materials to help residents with their insurance-related questions and issues.
• Illinois County Clerks Offices: Illinois County Clerk's offices perform a wide range of administrative and record-keeping duties, which typically include managing elections, maintaining vital records (such as birth and death certificates), and handling various aspects of taxation and property records. They also serve as the official recordkeepers for the courts, collect fees, and often handle other functions, such as issuing licenses and recording deeds.
• Illinois Commerce Commission: The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) regulates public utilities to balance consumer and company interests, ensuring safe, reliable, and reasonably priced services like natural gas, electricity, and telecommunications. It also oversees certain transportation activities, including railroad safety, trucking insurance and registration, and household goods movers.
• Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation: The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) licenses and regulates various financial institutions and professionals (over 100 different professions) in Illinois to protect the public. Its responsibilities include issuing licenses, enforcing state laws and ethical standards, investigating complaints, and providing consumer education. The IDFPR is also responsible for overseeing the state's banking and financial services industries, including credit unions, currency exchanges, and consumer credit services.

How to Find the Owner of a Business Entity in Illinois

A quick Internet search may lead to a business's online presence, which typically publishes information about public-facing directors and executives. This information, however, isn't always enough to give you a full picture of company ownership. Government records, like the ones available through the Illinois Secretary of State's office and other public databases, are usually your best bet for accessing comprehensive details regarding the ownership of a business entity in Illinois.

You may begin by visiting the Illinois Secretary of State's business entity search page. This page offers detailed information about Illinois's registered business entities, including the names of owners and company officers. Follow the outlined steps to access the information you seek.

Additional Resources for Business Ownership Info

Some additional resources for finding business owners are as follows:

• Chambers of Commerce: Local chambers of commerce typically publish member directories, often including ownership details.
• Better Business Bureau (BBB): The BBB occasionally publishes business profiles, company ownership information, customer reviews, and complaints. Two BBB entities serve Illinois: the BBB of Central Illinois and the BBB of Chicago & Northern Illinois.
• Other Public Records: Business licenses, real estate transactions, and court documents involving the business entity may reveal ownership information.
• Company's Website: Some business entities may list information about their owners on their websites.
• WHOIS Lookup: Perform a WHOIS search to find the owner of the business's domain name.
• Professional Networks: Check sites like LinkedIn, which may list owners and key personnel.

Types of Owners and Their Roles

In Illinois, business owners and leaders range from founding a sole proprietorship or LLC to holding top executive positions at large corporations like Walgreens or McDonald's. Leadership roles can include C-suite executives, operations and marketing managers, or supervisors, with demand existing for skilled trades, IT, and finance roles. The path depends on whether one is an owner or an employee and on the kind of business one wishes to lead.

Business Owners

• Small Businesses: Many business owners start as sole proprietors, partners, or limited liability companies (LLCs).
• Corporate Leadership: In Illinois, major corporations like Walgreens and McDonald's employ large numbers of people, and their ownership structures include top leadership roles.

Illinois Leadership Roles

• Top Executive: The highest-paying roles are often C-suite positions, such as President/Chief Executive Officer, with high salaries in Illinois.
• Management and Operations: Common leadership roles include operations manager, quality control manager, marketing manager, and office manager.
• Supervisory: Forepersons, supervisors, and lead persons are also considered leadership roles, particularly in industries like skilled trades.
• Specialist: Roles such as project manager, human resources professional, and strategic planner are also leadership-focused.

Many new businesses in fields such as cosmetology and automotive services continue to show strong demand. IT support specialists are in constant demand, and financial roles such as accounting clerks and bookkeepers are highly sought after.

Different entity structures have various roles and types of ownership. Some individuals who have control over a company may not hold a traditional role within it. Leadership is a crucial factor to understand before working with a company.

Some of the more conventional roles within companies include:

• Shareholders (or Stockholders): They own the corporation by purchasing stock, which grants them voting rights to elect the Board of Directors and influence major corporate decisions.
• Directors: Directors set the strategic course for the corporation, make major decisions, and oversee the conduct of the officers.
• Officers: Officers, such as presidents (CEO) and secretaries, manage the day-to-day operations of the business and are hired and fired by the Board of Directors.
• Members: Members are the owners of the LLC. They can also serve as managers or delegate management to others. Members are typically protected from personal liability for the company's debts.
• Managers: Managers, whether members or non-members, are responsible for managing the business and affairs of the LLC.
• General Partners: They manage the business affairs as outlined in the partnership agreement. General partners are entirely liable for all business debts and obligations.
• Limited Partners: Limited partners have limited management rights. Their liability is typically limited to their investment in the business, providing them with some protection from business debts.

Red Flags to Look for When Searching Business Entities

Red flags when searching for a business entity in Illinois include a "Not Good Standing" status, a name that's not distinguishable from other companies, a lack of transparency, inconsistent financial records, and a history of high employee turnover. You can check a business's standing on the Illinois Secretary of State website, which lets you search for entity details and purchase a Certificate of Good Standing.

Some general red flags to watch for are:

• Generic Contact Information: Using a free email service like @gmail.com or @hotmail.com instead of a business-specific domain can be a warning sign.
• Lack of Physical Address: The business may only have a P.O. Box or no physical premises listed.
• Poor Communication: Inability to reach a representative, unanswered calls, or a lack of a landline.
• Opaque Ownership: Lack of transparency about who owns or controls the company.
• No Online Presence: There is no website or online advertising to be found.
• Resistance to Due Diligence: The company is reluctant to provide information needed to verify its legitimacy.

Some more serious red flags include:

Entity Status Problems

When researching a potential partner or vendor, be sure to vet them thoroughly. The first thing to check is for any entity status issues. You can do this through the Secretary of State's website or use EntityCheck.

Look for a "Not Good Standing" status. This indicates that the business has failed to meet state compliance requirements.

Look for delays or errors in filings, as well as missing documents like meeting minutes, signed contracts, or other essential agreements. Not filing regular reports could indicate the business is dissolved or fraudulent.

Before partnering with anyone, ensure the business name includes the required suffix, like "LLC", "L.L.C.", or "Limited Liability Company" for LLCs. If not, they could have compliance issues.

Common entity status violations in Illinois include failure to file annual reports or pay franchise taxes, which leads to a "Not in Good Standing" (NGS) status. Other violations include failing to appoint a registered agent, violating liquor control laws (e.g., failing to display a license or having uncertified staff), engaging in deceptive practices, committing antitrust violations, and improperly using public assets.

Inconsistent or Suspicious Information

Always keep an eye out for missing or inconsistent information. Look for any inconsistencies in the registered agent's name, address, or other details. A lack of clear contact information can be a significant concern.

Another red flag is a misleading name. A business name that is too similar to an existing one or that incorrectly implies government affiliation can be a warning sign that the company is attempting to deceive the public. Be cautious of names that sound reputable but are vague, especially if they are not easily searchable.

A business with a poorly designed website or that uses excessive grammatical errors and spelling mistakes might also be a red flag.

A seller who is unwilling to provide documentation, sign a non-compete agreement, or allow for thorough due diligence is a major red flag.

Ownership and Management Concerns

How a company is managed tells a lot about how they may be as a vendor, partner, or customer. A consistently high turnover rate can signal a toxic work environment, poor management, or overall dissatisfaction.

A business that lacks a proper governance structure may struggle with decision-making, accountability, and strategic direction.

The most common type of employment lawsuit in Illinois is retaliation, in which an employer takes adverse action against an employee for engaging in a protected activity. Discrimination claims are also extremely common and often overlap with retaliation, and other frequent causes include wage and hour violations. Wrongful termination, harassment, and benefit violations are also common issues illustrating companies that do not treat their people well.

Financial and Legal Warning Signs

One of the most crucial aspects of searching for Illinois business entities is identifying financial or legal red flags that could hurt you the most.

Watch out for any company that is a tangled web of subsidiaries or joint ventures, as it could be a sign they are trying to hide something.

Look for red flags such as complex accounting, large volumes of credit card payments without transaction details, or adjustments to past financial statements after they were issued. A large number of bank accounts or a complex web of related entities can be a warning sign.

Look for a consistent decline in revenue or profit margins, poor cash flow management, and inconsistencies in financial statements.

Be wary of unusual cash transactions, unexplained expenses, or credit card payments recorded without transaction details.

Check for pending litigation, regulatory violations, or unresolved tax problems.

The most common type of business lawsuit in Illinois is breach of contract, as it is a frequent source of commercial litigation due to the nature of business relationships. Other common types include employment disputes, intellectual property claims, and personal injury lawsuits, such as negligence or defective product claims.

Compliance Gaps

The most common business compliance violations in Illinois are wage and hour violations, such as failing to pay minimum wage or overtime, followed by workplace misconduct, such as discrimination and harassment. Other frequent issues include violations of the Illinois one-day rest in seven act, improper handling of FMLA and leave requests, and errors in tax and payroll filings.

Not following OSHA standards, such as those related to hazard communication, lockout/tagout, and general machine guarding, is a frequent issue.

In businesses with liquor licenses, common violations include having personnel without the required BASSET certification, failing to display the state license, and failing to retain 90 days of invoices.

Business Purpose and Industry Red Flags

In Illinois, business purpose red flags include anything that appears deceptive or a lack of a clear, legitimate purpose for transactions, which can lead to financial fraud. Industry red flags include operating in sectors like banking or insurance without the proper registration, or engaging in business practices that suggest identity theft, such as receiving returned mail while transactions continue on an account.

Additionally, business red flags in Illinois include being unable to provide a detailed business purpose for expenses or transactions, using deception in business dealings, or dealing with individuals with a known criminal history involving fraud or deceit.

Connections & Affiliations

A company's connections and affiliations can tell quite a story. Sometimes one person runs multiple dissolved/failed companies. Look for recurring patterns of dissolution followed by new formation. That is a significant indicator of potential fraud. One thing to be cautious of is a company with ties to organized crime figures and politically exposed persons (PEPs). If the company makes a concerted effort to conceal its actual owner or person in charge, that should be a clear warning to stay away.

Some red flags in broader business records include the following:

Inconsistent Public Records

Company filings don't match what's listed in:

• Court records
• Tax records
• Property ownership filings
• An example of this is that the registered address differs from the address in lawsuits or liens.

Poor Record-Keeping

• Missing meeting minutes (for corporations).
• No updated ownership/member list for LLCs.
• Lack of transparency in accounting records.

Regulatory Issues

• Fines, sanctions, or loss of licenses with state agencies.
• Businesses flagged by the Better Business Bureau or the Attorney General's office.

Unusual Patterns

• Very recent incorporation with sudden high activity.
• Foreign entities registered but not compliant with local laws.
• Shell-company indicators (multiple entities tied to the same registered agent at the same address).

Best Practices When Reviewing Business Entity Records

Utilize the best practices outlined below to maximize the benefits of your research. A business background check can take time, but it can yield a wealth of information that could help you avoid any costly mistakes.

• Cross-reference everything.
• Compare the UCC filing data with records from litigation and bankruptcy courts. Look for discrepancies between the documents.
• Check annual reports for consistency year-over-year.
• Research the owners of a company to detect possible bankruptcies, felonies, fraud, and other legal issues that could affect your business.
• Use business verification services or business background reports from EntityCheck.
• Keep in mind the context. For example, a single lien may not be alarming, but multiple filings, lawsuits, and frequent leadership turnover together signal real risk.

How to Register an Entity in Illinois

When choosing a business name in Illinois, there are many reasons to check whether the business entity name is already taken. For example, you'll need to adhere to any state laws regarding the name you choose. You'll also want to avoid using a business name currently in use, not only for practical reasons but also to avoid violating copyright and trademark laws.

To set up a business entity or a corporation in Illinois, you must register with the Illinois Secretary of State. The Illinois Secretary of State recognizes the following types of business entities, each with its own unique filing requirements.

• Corporations: To organize a corporation in Illinois, you must submit articles of incorporation using form BCA 2.10.
• Not-for-Profits: To organize a not-for-profit corporation in Illinois, complete and submit Form NFP 102.10.
• LLCs, LPs, & LLPS: To organize an LLC, LP, or LLP in Illinois, you must submit articles of incorporation using form LLC-5.5.
• Foreign Entities: To transact business in Illinois, a foreign LLC must submit form LLC-45.5, a foreign not-for-profit organization must submit form NFP 113.15, and any other foreign corporation must submit form BCA 13.15.
• Sole Proprietorships: In Illinois, sole proprietorships are filed only at the county level. Check with your County Recorder's office to determine filing requirements.

You'll need to follow these general steps:

• Ensure that your business name is unique and not already in use.
• File the appropriate forms with the Illinois Secretary of State or, in the case of a sole proprietorship, with your County Recorder.
• Report your company's beneficial ownership information (BOI).
• Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS.
• Register with MyTaxIllinois.

Click here for more detailed instructions.

How Much Does It Cost to Start a Business in Illinois?

To start a business in Illinois, you must file the appropriate paperwork with the Secretary of State and pay the associated filing fees. The initial registration fee is typically $150, except for not-for-profit corporations, which cost $50 to register.

In addition, all corporations are generally required to file an annual report with the Secretary of State. Annual reports are due by the last day of the month before the business's anniversary month. The annual report filing fee is $75, plus a variable franchise tax and a $1.69 transaction fee.

Illinois business naming guidelines require names to be unique, to include specific terminology such as "LLC" for limited liability companies or "Inc." for corporations, and to avoid implying government affiliation. All names must use English alphabet letters, Arabic or Roman numerals, and certain symbols, and foreign names must be translated or adapted to English. Restricted words such as "Inc.", "Corp.", and "Limited Partnership" are prohibited in specific contexts.

Illinois-specific business naming guidelines are as follows:

• Uniqueness: The name must be distinguishable from any other registered business name in Illinois. A search on the Illinois Secretary of State's website is recommended.
• Permitted Characters: Names must consist of English alphabet letters, Arabic or Roman numerals, or specific symbols that the Secretary of State can reproduce.
• Forbidden Terms: A business name cannot use terms that imply a different entity type, such as "Inc.", "Corp.", or "Limited Partnership" in a name for an LLC.
• Forbidden Concepts: Names cannot suggest a false affiliation with a government agency (e.g., "Treasury", "FBI") or imply an illegal or morally offensive purpose.
• Restricted Words: Names cannot include words suggesting a medical, financial, or insurance institution unless prior approval is obtained.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC): Must include "limited liability company", "LLC", or "L.L.C." in the name. Cannot use corporate designators such as "Inc."
• Corporation: Must include "Corporation", "Incorporated", "Company", or "Limited" or an abbreviation like "Inc." or "Co."

• Sole Proprietorship/Partnership: If using a name other than the owner's full legal name (an "assumed name" or "doing business as" or DBA), it must be registered with the County Clerk's office where the business operates.

  • This involves filing a certificate with the county clerk and often requires publishing notice in a local newspaper.

FAQs

1. How do I look up who owns an LLC in Illinois (members vs. managers)?

   To find the owner of an Illinois LLC, use the Illinois Secretary of State's Business Entity Search to look up the LLC's public records, as state law does not require members or owners to be listed in the initial formation documents. If members aren't listed publicly, the owner's information may be in an annual report, though this is not always required for public viewing. You may also check the company's website or contact the registered agent for more information.

2. How can I find a corporation's officers and directors in the state?

   You can find a corporation's officers and directors in Illinois by using the Illinois Secretary of State's business entity search tool. The results will list the entity's name, registered agent, and key personnel, such as the President and Secretary, as this information is available through the public record. You may also try searching the SEC's EDGAR database for public companies or checking the company's website. For Nonprofits, you can check the IRS Tax Exempt Search tool.

   EntityCheck's business background reports also provide information about a company's directors, officers, and associates.

3. Are business owners' names public or private in Illinois?

   In Illinois, business owners' names are generally public information for entities like corporations and LLCs, as the state requires this information to be listed on annual reports filed with the Secretary of State. This information is accessible through a public database. However, some privacy can be achieved by using a registered agent service, which uses their address instead of a personal one, or by a professional, such as an attorney, acting as the organizer of the LLC, although the government will still know the owner's identity through other records, like tax filings.

4. Where do I search official business records in the state?

   You can search official business records through state-level Secretary of State websites, the SEC's EDGAR database for public companies, and county-level offices for local licenses. For historical records, check with local libraries or historical societies.

5. How do I check if a business name is available or reserved in Illinois?

   To check if a business name is available in Illinois, use the Illinois Secretary of State's online Business Entity Search tool to search for existing corporations, LLCs, and other entities. For a more comprehensive search, you should also search the USPTO's trademark database and check for available domain names and social media handles. If the name is available for use, you can then reserve it for a fee by filing the appropriate form with the Secretary of State's office.

6. How can I view recent filings (Articles, amendments, mergers, annual/biennial reports) for a company in Illinois?

   You can view a company's filings by using the Illinois Secretary of State's Business Entity Search page, where you can search by company name or file number to find information like Articles of Incorporation and annual/biennial reports. For publicly traded companies, you can find additional documents, such as annual reports, in the SEC's EDGAR database.

7. How do I get a Certificate of Good Standing/Existence in Illinois?

   To get a Certificate of Good Standing in Illinois, go to the Illinois Secretary of State's Business Search website, search for your business entity, and purchase the certificate online. You will need to provide the business name or file number to find the entity, then follow the prompts to complete the purchase and print the certificate.

8. How do I obtain certified copies of formation documents and amendments in the state?

   You can obtain certified copies of formation documents and amendments in Illinois by requesting them directly from the Illinois Secretary of State. You can submit requests by mail, fax, in person, or by phone, and choose between normal processing for $25 or expedited processing for $50. These certified copies are official and often required for various business purposes, such as opening a bank account or securing a loan.

9. How do I search UCC (Uniform Commercial Code) liens against a company in Illinois?

   To search for a UCC lien against a company in Illinois, you should first determine the company's official name and then search the Illinois Secretary of State's (SOS) online UCC database. Alternatively, you can use a third-party service or contact the SOS office directly to request a search and obtain copies of any relevant filings.

   You can also use the handy EntityCheck UCC search tool to find liens against an Illinois company.

10. What are the steps to register an LLC in Illinois (forms, fees, timeline)?

    To register an LLC in Illinois, you must file Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State for a $150 fee, choose a registered agent and business name, and create an operating agreement. The online filing process takes 7-10 business days. You also need to register with the Illinois Department of Revenue and apply for an EIN from the IRS.

11. What are the steps to incorporate (C-Corp/S-Corp) in Illinois?

    To incorporate in Illinois, you must choose a unique business name, appoint a registered agent, and file Articles of Incorporation with the Illinois Secretary of State. After state incorporation, both C-corporations and S-corporations must obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS and register for state and local taxes. For an S-Corp, you must also file IRS Form 2553 to elect that tax status.

12. Do I need a registered agent in the state, and who can serve as one?

    Yes, if you are forming a business entity, such as a corporation or LLC, in Illinois, you must have a registered agent. Anyone who is an individual resident of Illinois, at least 18 years old, or an Illinois-registered business entity can serve as one, provided they have a physical address in Illinois, and they are available during regular business hours to receive important legal and government documents on behalf of the business.

13. What annual reports, franchise/margin taxes, or license renewals are required in Illinois?

    Illinois requires an annual report and franchise tax for corporations, LLCs, and non-profits, which are filed with the Secretary of State's office by the anniversary month. Corporations also pay an annual franchise tax, as well as other license renewals and specific business taxes (such as sales or income tax) that depend on the business type and activity.

14. How long does state approval take in Illinois, and are expedited options available?

    Standard state approval in Illinois for an LLC can take 5-14 business days, but expedited processing is available for an additional $100 fee, reducing the processing time to 24 hours. The exact timeframe depends on the type of approval needed, with some processes taking longer, such as a mailed business registration (6-8 weeks) or a dealer license application (2-4 weeks).

15. Do I need to foreign-qualify to do business in Illinois if my company is formed elsewhere?

    Yes, you do need to foreign-qualify to do business in Illinois if your company is formed in another state and conducts business there, as this allows you to operate legally in Illinois. The need for registration depends on what constitutes "transacting business" in Illinois, which typically involves a physical presence, such as an office or employees, but can also include substantial commercial activity, regular contracts, or significant revenue from the state. To foreign-qualify, you must file an Application for Authority with the Illinois Secretary of State, appoint an Illinois registered agent, and provide a certificate of good standing from your home state.

16. What activities count as "doing business" in the state?

    Some things that constitute "doing business" in Illinois include:

    • Having a physical presence (office, warehouse, employees) in Illinois
    • Regularly entering into binding contracts in the state
    • Regularly meeting with clients or customers in person to conduct business
    • Generating a steady and significant revenue stream from Illinois activities
17. How do I file a DBA/fictitious business name in Illinois, and is county/city filing required?

    To file a DBA in Illinois, you must file a Certificate of Assumed Name with the county clerk for sole proprietorships and general partnerships, or with the Illinois Secretary of State for LLCs and corporations. County-level filings are required for some entities and may involve additional steps, such as publishing a newspaper notice, whereas state-level filings for corporations and LLCs generally do not require this step.

18. How do I change my company's name, address, officers, or members with the state?

    To change your company's information in Illinois, you must file an amendment with the Secretary of State for formal changes like name changes or update details like address and officers through MyTax Illinois. Name changes require filing an Articles of Amendment ($50 fee), while address, officer, or member changes can often be handled online through the MyTax Illinois portal or by filing the appropriate forms by mail.

19. How do I reinstate or revive a company that's been administratively dissolved in Illinois?

    To reinstate a company in Illinois, you must first resolve the reason for administrative dissolution (like filing delinquent reports or paying fees). Then, file the correct application for reinstatement with the Illinois Secretary of State's Business Services Department, pay the required fees, and ensure your name is available or file a name change amendment. The specific form depends on your entity type: Form LLC 35.40/45.65 for an LLC or Form BCA 12.45/13.6 for a corporation.

20. Do I need to file Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) with FinCEN, and how does that interact with Illinois filings?

    No, U.S. domestic companies are no longer required to file a Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) report with FinCEN, as the requirement was removed on March 26, 2025. Illinois filings are separate from FinCEN BOI reporting. Illinois has its own business registration and renewal requirements with the Department of Business Services of the Secretary of State, which are not affected by the FinCEN change.