Illinois Business Search

Forming an LLC in Illinois entails several steps and considerations, including fees, benefits, drafting an operating agreement, meeting requirements, understanding taxes and annual report obligations, and possibly opting for an anonymous LLC structure. An LLC provides a flexible business structure where owners enjoy limited liability protection. Once established, the state legally recognizes the business entity, shielding owners from personal liability. Understanding these facets is important for anyone considering or currently operating an LLC in Illinois. Continue reading to explore the wealth of information accessible through an Illinois business search.

A limited liability company (LLC) is a business structure in the United States whereby the owners are not personally liable for the company's debts or liabilities. To set up an LLC in Illinois, you must submit the articles of the organization with the $150 application fee. Once Illinois accepts your application, the state will recognize your business entity legally, separating you from being liable for any of the company’s debts. Limited liability companies are hybrid entities that combine the characteristics of a corporation with those of a partnership or sole proprietorship.

The Office of the Illinois Secretary of State provides a database where you can search for various businesses, including corporations, not-for-profit corporations, limited partnerships, LLCs, and limited liability partnerships. When searching for a business with this service, you must select the type of business structure it falls under. For instance, if it is an LLC, make sure to select the LLC search option.

You can then select which search method you want to use, including name, keyword, partial word, and file number.

When you come across the Illinois business you are interested in learning more about, you can see various information. This includes the business’s file number, the name, the status of the company, the location of their principal office, entity type, registered agent, and much more listed below.

This business search is a way to contact a business or find out other information you need. You may also desire to search for a company to confirm your information about the business. You can even look up your business to see what is available to the public. It's also a great way to determine whether your desired business name while filing for one is already taken and, therefore, unavailable. Some other reasons for performing a business search are listed below.

1. Want to file a lawsuit against an LLC? You can contact the agent to notify the company.
2. Learn more about an LLC, including any of the information listed below.
3. Find out the ownership of an LLC
4. Searching for name availability for Your LLC. Confirming whether your desired LLC name is already taken can help prevent rejection and additional filings for your LLC.
5. Perform administrative tasks for your company.
6. Confirm whether your LLC is formed officially with the secretary of state

Information that is available through the Illinois business search includes the following:

1. File Number
2. Entity name
3. Status of the company (active, inactive, etc.)
4. Principal office address
5. Entity type (business structure and domestic/international)
6. Date of filing
7. Jurisdiction
8. Duration of business
9. Registered agent information (including name and address)
10. When the annual report was last filed
11. Manager names and addresses
12. Whether the company is authorized to establish a series

Anonymous LLCs are where the company is not required to provide owners’, managers’, or members’ information when filing with the state. Only a handful of states allow this directly when filing within the state. States that do not allow you to withhold this member information have ways to protect your privacy that an anonymous LLC attorney can help you with.

In Illinois, the identity of company managers is reported and listed on the business search database. There may be ways you can avoid listing the members. You should consult with an Illinois business attorney if you want to obtain anonymity when operating your business.

If any information is inaccurate, contact the Office of the Secretary of State with the same information listed below.

Address:

If you need to file an annual report, need to effect a name change for your business, or if you want to change the registered agent you have listed or their registered office, you can do so with the Illinois Secretary of State. If there are other changes you want to make, you can contact the Secretary of State with any questions.

Reach out to the Illinois Secretary of State's office via phone or by utilizing their online contact forms.

In conclusion, navigating the world of LLCs in Illinois is made easier with the Secretary of State's business search tool. Whether you're researching a business or need to make essential updates, this resource is invaluable. If you're ready to form your Illinois LLC and have questions, don't hesitate to reach out. Complete the contact form or call us at +1 (307) 683-0983 to connect with a member of our experienced paralegal team. We're here to help you on your business journey in Illinois.