Deciding to form an Limited Liability Corporation (LLC) while based in Illinois can be a significant decision for business owners. The LLC structure gives business owners the flexibility and protections of a corporation, but without the same complexity. However, the decision of forming an LLC in Illinois is not to be taken lightly, as pledges and promises to shareholders, potential partners, and the state need to be respected and fulfilled under the law. Here, we explore some commonly asked questions regarding LLC formation in Illinois to help business owners make the best decision for their circumstances.

What Is an LLC?

LLC stands for a limited liability company, which is a legal structure used to form a business. It is a separate legal entity from its owner, also called a member. An LLC is sometimes referred to as a “hybrid” due to its ability to combine features of a corporation and a partnership. Similar to a corporation, LLCs have charging orders and multiple owners, and the owner’s personal assets are protected from the LLC’s liabilities. Like partnerships, LLCs have simplified tax rules under Subchapter K of the IRS Code, and can obtain profits and losses in a variety of ways.

What Are the Advantages to Forming an LLC in Illinois?

LLCs are preferred by many business owners due to the combination of limited liability protection and corporate tax relief they offer. LLCs isolate a member’s personal assets from the LLC’s liabilities, ensuring that individual owners are not liable in the event of litigation or bankruptcy. Furthermore, the corporation tax burden on LLCs is significantly less than that of corporate shareholders.

The state of Illinois also offers a competitive tax environment for LLCs. Illinois does not tax business income, except for corporate income tax for publicly traded partnerships, investments, and S-corporations. LLCs in Illinois are also exempt from many of the unemployment insurance taxes and premium surcharges imposed on corporations and partnerships.

What Are the Requirements toForm an LLC in Illinois?

In order to form an LLC in Illinois, several steps need to be taken. First, the owners must choose a name for the LLC and make sure it is unique from other businesses in Illinois. The name needs to include the word LLC, L.L.C., LC, or Limited Company and may not include words like Bank, Insurance, Attorney, or other words that would imply the company is operating a different business .

The next step is to file the articles of organization with the Illinois Secretary of State. The articles of organization must include the name of the LLC, the address of the LLC, the name and address of the registered agent, and the intention of the LLC. The final step is to file an annual report by May first of each year to keep the LLC in good standing.

What Documents Do Illinois Business Owners Need in Order to Form an LLC?

When forming an LLC in Illinois, business owners must first submit a Certificate of Organization to the Illinois Secretary of State. The Certificate of Organization must include the following information:

• The LLC name and address

• The names and addresses of LLC managers and members

• An address for the LLC registered office

• The LLC’s purpose

• The name and address of the LLC’s registered agent

• Any other relevant information

In addition, the LLC must also draft an Operating Agreement that governs the LLC’s activities. The Operating Agreement should include provisions that describe how the LLC will conduct business and how it will manage its finances.

What Are the Different Types of LLCs in Illinois?

The state of Illinois recognizes several types of LLCs, including:

• Single-member LLCs, owned entirely by one individual

• Multi-member LLCs, owned by more than one individual

• Professional LLCs, founded by licensed professionals like lawyers, doctors, and accountants

• Series LLCs, comprised of several LLCs operating under a single entity

How Can I Find the Best Business Lawyer for My LLC in Illinois?

The best business lawyer for your LLC in Illinois will depend on several factors, such as geographic location, experience, and specialization. When searching for a business lawyer in Illinois, you should consider using a referral service, such as UpCounsel, to more easily find a lawyer with the qualifications you need.

UpCounsel’s network of experienced attorneys has all the backgrounds and expertise you need to ensure that your LLC is compliant with Illinois and federal regulations. With UpCounsel’s transparent profiles and rating system, you can view lawyer reviews and select the best legal counsel for your business.

Topics:

LLC,

Illinois,

business lawyers

Topics: LLC