Illinois Foreign LLC – Qualification and Registration

If you already have an LLC in another state and want an LLC in Illinois, then starting an LLC would be somewhat different. You must register as a foreign LLC. We have here a guide on how you can qualify and register for a foreign LLC in Illinois.

Forming an Illinois Foreign LLC

A foreign LLC does not need to be a company from another country but a business formed under the laws of another state. To start a foreign LLC in Illinois, you need to register it with the Illinois Secretary of State.

Step 1: Choose Illinois Foreign LLC Name

Obtain a name reservation certificate and submit it with your foreign qualification requirements at the Illinois Secretary of State. Your LLC’s legal name outside of Illinois will be listed on the application, along with the name it will use in Illinois. Take note of the requirements for naming your LLC.

Check name availability at Illinois’ business entity names and reserve your LLC name.

Step 2: Select Illinois Foreign LLC Registered Agent

You’ll need a registered agent to form a foreign LLC in Illinois and take note that an Illinois registered agent must have a local address. Here are three of the best LLC services on our list that will provide you with registered agents to ease your worries:

Step 3: File Registration of Illinois Foreign LLC

Fill out and submit a Foreign LLC Application for Registration form by mail to the Department of Business Services, Limited Liability Division, 501 S. Second St., Rm. 351, Springfield, IL 62746.

Include the following:

• LLC’s full legal name.
• A fictitious name or a DBA (only if your LLC’s legal name is not available); Attach a statement of adoption of the fictitious name signed by all LLC members.
• LLC’s principal office and mailing addresses.
• LLC formation state and date.
• Registered agent’s name and address in Illinois.
• Date when your LLC will start operations in Illinois.
• Credit card information on the last page of the form for the $150 application fee.

The LLC cost in Illinois, even for foreign LLCs will differ between online filing and by mail.

Step 4: Determine How Your Illinois Foreign LLC is taxed

Foreign LLCs are also subjected to the Illinois Business Privilege Tax, and they must file LLC annual reports each year.

Note that forming a foreign LLC would be good for your business as you can legally operate in a different state thus reaching a larger market and opening more opportunities for higher profit.

Steps to Filing Illinois Foreign LLC Online

When you are registering for the foreign LLC in the State of Illinois, you will have to submit your Application for Registration of foreign LLC with the Secretary of State which costs $150. After approval, you will receive a Verification Certificate from the State Office. The State does not offer online filing options for foreign LLCs. We have explained the aspects you need to cover when you apply for Illinois Foreign LLC.

1. Download the Application Form PDF (LLC-45.5) on your computer system.
2. Read the information mentioned in the application carefully and proceed to fill in the required details.
3. You are required to attach the Certificate of Good Standing or Existence issued by proper authority in the State of original jurisdiction. It costs $25.
4. Make the check of $150 payable to the Secretary of State.5. Attach all the documents, i.e., the application form, Certificate of Good standing or existence, and the filing fee and mail it to the following address, Secretary of State, Department of Business Services, Limited Liability Division, 501 S. Second St., Rm 351, Springfield, IL 62756.

After Forming Illinois Foreign LLC

Here are added things you need to accomplish after forming your Illinois Foreign LLC

1. Obtain Business Licenses. Find the business licenses you’ll need using the Business License Search.
2. File LLC annual reports and Business Privilege Tax.
3. Pay State Taxes like sales tax; you’ll need an EIN for your LLC.

It is convenient plus easy to file for the foreign LLC if you are doing it online. The steps are very easy and that’s why it’s possible to go along with the steps and form the foreign LLC in Illinois.

F.A.Qs

How Much Does It Cost to Register a Foreign LLC in Illinois

To register as a foreign LLC in Illinois, you can file through mail by paying a filing amount of $150 to the Illinois Secretary of State.

First and foremost, the initial filing fee for registering a foreign LLC in Illinois varies depending on the type of entity and the state in which it is organized. These fees are typically payable to the Illinois Secretary of State and cover the administrative costs associated with processing the registration paperwork. While the exact amount can fluctuate, it is generally advisable to set aside a sufficient budget for this initial expense.

Additionally, foreign businesses may also need to factor in legal fees associated with hiring an attorney to assist with the registration process. An experienced lawyer can provide valuable guidance on compliance requirements, tax implications, and other legal considerations unique to foreign LLCs operating in Illinois. Though legal fees can represent an additional cost, they are often necessary to navigate the complexities of foreign registration and ensure compliance with state laws.

Beyond the initial filing and legal fees, foreign LLCs must also consider ongoing maintenance expenses associated with maintaining registration in Illinois. This can include annual report fees, renewal costs, and other regulatory requirements necessary to keep the LLC in good standing with the state. While these expenses may not be significant on their own, they can accumulate over time and impact the overall cost of operating a foreign LLC in Illinois.

It is important for foreign businesses to carefully assess and budget for all potential costs associated with registering a foreign LLC in Illinois. By understanding the breakdown of expenses involved, businesses can more effectively plan their finances and allocate resources accordingly. While the cost of registration may vary depending on the specifics of each case, having a clear understanding of the various expenses involved can help foreign businesses make informed decisions and avoid any unexpected financial burdens.

In conclusion, registering a foreign LLC in Illinois can be a costly endeavor, requiring careful consideration of various filing, legal, and maintenance expenses. By outlining and budgeting for these costs upfront, foreign businesses can effectively plan their finances and ensure compliance with state requirements. Overall, understanding the breakdown of expenses involved in registering a foreign LLC in Illinois is essential for foreign businesses looking to establish a presence in the state and operate successfully within its regulatory framework.

In Conclusion

Starting a foreign LLC in Illinois does not require a lot of documentation or tasks. However, it is always good to seek help from a professional when it comes to running your business. Get a professional registered agent and form your foreign LLC anywhere without a hassle.