Chicago Business License Processing
If you register by mail or fax, you should receive your Certificate of Registration or License in approximately 6-8 weeks. Apply online to expedite the process. The City contacts officials to get opinions before issuing a license. Appeals of license denials can take months. Start the licensing process as soon as possible.
Chicago Business Licensing Requirements
A Chicago business license is required to operate most businesses in the city. The Small Business Center (SBC) regulates Chicago business activities and issues licenses. Many establishments need a license, including service providers, offices, and retailers. Currently, the SBC processes Limited Business Licenses in 3 days.
Illinois Business Licenses
All Illinois businesses, including home, mobile, and online companies, need a business license, tax registration, and other appropriate licenses in Chicago. New small home and online businesses also need licenses to operate legally. The cost varies by license type.
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Processing Time for Limited Business Licenses
Currently, the performance target for processing Limited Business Licenses is 3 days. -
Expedited Business License Process
Apply for your business license online to expedite the process.
Incorporation in Illinois
The fee to incorporate in Illinois is $125 plus expedited filing fees. Before hiring or sales, the business must register with the Illinois Department of Revenue. Forming an LLC costs $500 plus a $250 annual fee.
Sales Tax Permit in Illinois
In Illinois, you must register for a sales tax permit before making any sales or purchases for resale, or when you hire an employee.
Exempt Businesses in Chicago
There are different types of businesses exempted from obtaining a Chicago business license. The City of Chicago requires a business license for most business activities, except for professions like legal and medical, unless they offer additional unlicensed services.