How Long Does It Take To Form an LLC in Illinois (Guide)
Before your LLC can benefit from a limited liability company structure, it is important to note that there is a turnaround time for the SOS to receive, verify and finally approve your application.
Since I'm a seasoned Mergers and Acquisitions specialist, I worked with several businesses, as well as individuals, and assisted them with creating new joint organizations.
After consulting business experts in Illinois, we determined the processing time to form a limited liability company in Illinois.
Quick Summary
- It takes 21 business days to form an LLC in Illinois via mail and 10 business days if filed online.
- The Illinois Secretary of State offers an expedited shipping option for LLC owners at an additional fee of $100 for 24-hour processing.
- Illinois's capacity to create 644,696 jobs between March 2021 and March 2022,, as highlighted by the US Small Business Administration, showcases the effectiveness of the state's business formation procedures. The ability to establish an LLC within a single business day accelerates the process of business initiation and growth.
- Whenever my clients file their applications, I advise them to submit online using the expedited option.
What is The Fastest Way to Start an LLC in Illinois?
The fastest way to start an LLC in Illinois is by filing online or in person using the expedited service at an additional cost. Your formation documents are processed within 24 hours.
If you want your business to be operational at the soonest possible time, this is the best option for your LLC.
LLC Processing Time in Illinois
The Illinois Secretary of State offers different processing times for the articles of organization depending on the LLC owner's filing method.
Here are four filing methods offered by the Secretary of State's office in Illinois and their different LLC processing times.
1. Expedited Illinois LLC Processing Time Online and In Person (24-hour processing + $100)
The Illinois SOS offers a 24-hour expedited shipping option for an additional $100 state fee.
When I was about to file for a series LLC, I learned that the payment for expedited service costs more.
If you're filing your LLC legal documents online and opting for expedited service, you'll pay $250 for limited liability companies and $500 for series LLCs.
2. Non-Expedited Illinois LLC Processing Time By Mail (21 business days)
The non-expedited processing for all mail submissions is 21 business days, excluding holidays and weekends. You cannot request expedited shipping via mail; you must visit the office in person.
To file by mail, I had to download Form LLC-5.5 from the Illinois Secretary of State website, fill it out, and send it to the following address:
Central Registration Division Illinois Department of Revenue
PO BOX 19030
SPRINGFIELD IL 62794-9030
3. Illinois LLC Processing Time Online (10 business days)
Online filing for domestic and foreign LLCs in Illinois is processed within 10 business days for non-expedited options. You can register online through the MyTaxIllinois website [1, 2].
When a client had to file articles of organization online, I reminded them to have all LLC information on hand so they won't experience website time-outs.
The SOS has built an automatic time-out security feature that occurs after every 30 minutes of inactivity.
Also, avoid filing on Sundays between 3:00 AM and 6:00 AM CST as there is scheduled website maintenance and, as a result, slow response times.
“Don't forget, the LLC formation timeframe is just one piece of the puzzle. Building a strong operating agreement and obtaining any necessary licenses are crucial next steps.”
Delina Yasmeh, J.D./Tax LL.M, Distinguished Expert in Mergers & Acquisitions
Factors Influencing The Formation Timeline Of Illinois LLCs
Although the Illinois Secretary of State has an established formation timeline, various factors can prolong the approval time. This includes the following:
- Filing method: The primary factor that affects the approval time of your LLC is the filing method you opted for. Mail, online and expedited options have varying processing periods.
- Processing errors: Website downtime and equipment malfunctions can prolong the approval time.
- Documentation issues: Lack of information or inaccurate details may cause your application to be rejected. The need to refile would cause a delay in the formation of your LLC.
Despite possible delays, the conducive business climate in Illinois has resulted in the launch of 40,933 new establishments from March 2021 to March 2022, according to the US Small Business Administration.
FAQs
Where Can I Check the Status of My Illinois LLC Formation During the Processing Period?
You can check the status of your Illinois LLC formation during the processing period by using your Packet Number that has been assigned by the Secretary of State.
Is There a Difference in Processing Time for Domestic and Foreign LLCs in Illinois?
There is a difference in processing time for domestic and foreign LLCs in Illinois. The state takes up to 45 days to review and approve Foreign limited liability companies.
References:
- https://tax.illinois.gov/businesses/registration.html
- https://www.ilsos.gov/departments/business_services/organization/llc_instructions.html
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