Illinois small-business laws
The State of Illinois Business Department (business.illinois.gov) administers the state's small-business rules and regulations. New and existing businesses that operate within the state are required to adhere to the laws that are created to eliminate abuses across areas like insurance and tax. The laws are also meant to improve the state's economic health and promote equality and entrepreneurialism.
Registering
Sole proprietorships must register their businesses with their local county clerk office. Limited partnerships and joint venture small businesses should register with Illinois' Secretary of State Department of Business Services. Information such as the name, street address, business purpose, number of employees, owner and executive board members should be provided to Business Services. Registration forms can be received from Business Services by dialing 217-782-6961.
State Taxes
All businesses, regardless of size, that operate within Illinois must file and report taxes. Depending on the type of business that is operated companies might have to file property, employment taxes, utility, motor fuel and excise taxes. Illinois small businesses are required to file and report sales and use taxes. Small businesses that have one or more employees must file income taxes as well. Register online with the Illinois Department of Revenue by completing the Illinois Business Registration Application to collect and file taxes. It generally takes one to two days for the department to complete the registration. Small-business owners can also visit a regional Department of Revenue office to register. The Department will mail tax filing deadline dates and locations to file and report taxes to new business owners after they register. Requests for paper registration forms can be addressed to the Illinois Department of Revenue by dialing 312-793-4880.
Unemployment Tax
Small businesses that employ one or more workers might be required to pay state unemployment insurance taxes. Illinois unemployment insurance taxes are paid through the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES). Registration forms can be received by contacting IDES by dialing 800-247-4984. Businesses that hire employees that handle or work with extremely hazardous materials as part of their jobs are required to purchase workers compensation insurance. Sole proprietorships can opt out of the insurance. Illinois workers compensation insurance is bought through privately owned insurance companies.
Permits and Licenses
Certain types of businesses must obtain permits and licenses in order to operate in Illinois. For example, restaurant owners that operate bars or lounges that serve alcoholic beverages must obtain liquor licenses. An employment agency would need to complete an employment agency license. Companies that operate air pollution control equipment or that have an emission source are required to get an air pollution control permit. These permits can be obtained by contacting the Illinois Small Business Environmental Assistance Center by dialing 800-252-3998.
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