The Illinois Secretary of State website offers a business database search tool to search for registered corporations and LLCs. The easiest way to search for a valid business is using a business name. You will also have to specify the business type—corporation or LLC or both—you wish to search.
Checking Business Name Availability
To check business name availability:
- Visit The Illinois Secretary of State’s website and use the business database search tool.
- Check if the name is trademarked after confirming its availability on the state website.
If you are interested in searching for information on entities such as a sole proprietorship or general partnership, these entities register their business name by submitting an Assumed Name Certificate with the County Clerk’s office in the county where the business is located.
Assumed Names and DBA in Illinois
Is an assumed name certificate required in Illinois? Yes, an assumed name must be properly registered by filing with the Illinois Secretary of State.
Is an assumed name the same as a DBA? Yes, an assumed name is also called a DBA name. Regardless of your business structure, you need to comply with assumed name statutes if operating under a name other than your legal name.
LLC Status and Ownership Information
For checking an LLC’s status:
- Visit the Illinois Secretary of State website or call 217-524-8008.
- Request a Certificate of Good Standing to confirm if the LLC is active.
For information on corporate reports and changing your agent, or if you need to find out who owns a business in Illinois, you can call the Illinois Secretary of State at 1-217-782-6961 or visit their website.
How Long Does It Take?
- For Articles of Incorporation: 10 days online or by mail, can be expedited for a fee.
- For Illinois LLC: Contact the Secretary of State for LLC status. File annual reports depending on type and location of LLC.
- For LLC name approval: 10 days typically, or expedited in 24 hours for an extra $100 fee.
Additional Services and Information
The Secretary of State also oversees motor vehicles, licenses, and business registrations. The right to use an assumed name starts when filed and lasts 5 years.
To search for a business entity, you can use the Illinois Business Entity Search or call 217-524-8008 (Springfield) or 312-793-3380 (Chicago).
Illinois LLC naming rules per Section 180/1-10 do not require a comma in the name.
Registering a Business in Illinois
To register a business in Illinois:
- Create a plan.
- Decide on a legal or assumed name.
- File an assumed name certificate, publish an announcement.
FAQs About Illinois LLCs
How long does it take to get an LLC in Illinois?
It normally takes 3-4 weeks for the LLC paperwork to be approved. Expedited processing is available for an additional fee.
How can I check the status of an LLC?
You can request a copy of its Certificate of Standing. A company that is in good standing will have a current Certificate of Good Standing.