The Illinois Secretary of State is the state agency responsible for overseeing business filings and changes. If you want to start a business in Illinois, or make changes to an existing business, you will need to file with the SOS. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of filing and making changes with the Illinois Secretary of State.
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What is the Illinois Secretary of State and what do they do
The Secretary of State of Illinois is an elected position held by Jesse White. The Secretary of State is the chief election officer of the state, responsible for administering elections and overseeing the operation of more than 27,000 polling places. The Secretary of State is also responsible for issuing licenses, such as driver’s licenses and vehicle registrations.
In addition, the Secretary of State is charged with maintaining Illinois’ official records, including birth and death certificates, business filings, and notary public commissions. As the state’s chief archivist, the Secretary of State oversees the preservation of Illinois’ history through the operation of the Illinois State Archives. Lastly, the Secretary of State is the Lieutenant Governor of Illinois and serves as acting governor in the absence of the governor.
How to file for an LLC in Illinois Secretary of State
- Look online for the Secretary of State website for Illinois.
- Under the Business Services heading, click on the link for LLCs.
- On the LLC page, scroll down to the section marked Forms.
- Select the Articles of Organization form and fill it out completely. Be sure to include the names and addresses of all the LLC members, as well as the name and address of the LLC itself.
- Mail the completed form along with a filing fee to: Business Services Division, 501 S. Second St., Rm. 351, Springfield, IL 62756-0001
- Once your Articles of Organization have been processed, you will receive an official Certificate of Organization from the Secretary of State’s office.
How can you file for a change with the Illinois Secretary of State office
You’ve decided to take the plunge and file for a change as an LLC with the Illinois Secretary of State’s office. Here’s a quick and easy guide on how to do it.
- First, you’ll need to gather the required documents. These include a Certificate of Good Standing from your current registered agent, a completed Articles of Organization, and a $150 filing fee.
- Once you have all of these items, you can begin the filing process by visiting the Secretary of State’s website.
- Next, you’ll need to create an account and log in. Once you’re logged in, you’ll be able to fill out the online form and submit it electronically.
- Be sure to review all of the information carefully before submitting it, as any mistakes could delay the processing of your request.
- If everything is in order, you should receive confirmation that your filing has been received and is being processed.
- Once it has been approved, you’ve officially changed your records as an LLC in Illinois.
What are some common changes that people make to their records with the Secretary of State office
As an LLC, there are a few common changes that you may need to make to your records with the Secretary of State’s office in Illinois. For example, if you change your LLC’s name or registered agent, you’ll need to file an amendment with the Secretary of State. You may also need to file an annual report and pay an annual fee.
Additionally, if you want to dissolve your LLC, you’ll need to file paperwork with the Secretary of State’s office. Luckily, the process for making these changes is relatively straightforward. You can typically find the necessary forms on the Secretary of State’s website, and many changes can be made online. As long as you keep your records up to date, you should have no problem maintaining your LLC status in Illinois.
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How long does it usually take for the Illinois Secretary of State to process a change request
In general, it takes about 10-15 business days for the Illinois Secretary of State to process a change request and mail out your new documents/records. Keep in mind that this is an estimate, and there may be some variations depending on the specific type of change you are requesting. For example, a simple name change may be processed more quickly than a more complex change such as a change of address.
If you need your new documents/records urgently, you may be able to request expedited processing for an additional fee. However, even with expedited processing, it is important to allow ample time for your request to be processed and mailed out. In general, it is best to avoid making any last-minute changes to ensure that everything is in order ahead of time.
Are there any fees associated with filing or making changes with the Illinois SOS office
The Illinois Secretary of State’s office does charge fees for certain services. For example, the fee for filing a standard LLC is $150, and the fee for registering a new vehicle is $151. The office also charges a $5 fee for changes to LLCs, such as updating the registered agent or changing the company’s address.
In addition, there are fees for other services, such as obtaining a copy of a birth certificate or ordering special license plates. Overall, the fees charged by the Illinois Secretary of State’s office are reasonable and in line with other state agencies.
Do I need to have an appointment at the local Secretary of State branch
Business hours for the Secretary of State may vary by location, but generally, you do not need to make an appointment before coming in to make changes to your LLC. However, it is always best to call ahead and confirm with the specific location you will be visiting.
Some states require appointments for certain types of changes or services, so it is always best to be safe and call ahead. When calling, be sure to ask if there are any special requirements or documents that you will need to bring with you when you come in to make your changes. By doing this, you can save yourself a lot of time and hassle.
Comprehensive recap
The Illinois Secretary of State is an important resource for business owners in the state. This office provides a variety of services, from filing to changing records, that business owners can take advantage of. If you are starting or running a business in Illinois, it’s important to be aware of the resources available through the Secretary of State and how to access them.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I create an LLC in Illinois?
- Choose a name for your LLC in Illinois.
- Appoint a registered representative in Illinois.
- Find out if you need a business license in Illinois.
- File an articles of incorporation for the company.
- Draft an LLC business agreement.
- Comply with employer obligations.
- Pay Illinois corporate taxes.
- Comply with federal requirements.
Where do I file for an LLC in Illinois?
You will need to file your LLC with the Secretary of State in Illinois. You can do this online, by mail, or in person.
How much is it to get an LLC in Illinois?
The cost to incorporate a limited liability company (LLC) in Illinois online is $150. This fee is payable to the Illinois Secretary of State when the LLC registration document is filed.
How long does it take to get an LLC approved in Illinois?
It typically takes 3-4 weeks for the Illinois Secretary of State to approve the LLC documents. Expedited processing (usually 1 business day) is also available for an additional fee.
James Rourke is a business and legal writer. He has written extensively on subjects such as contract law, company law, and intellectual property. His work has been featured in publications such as The Times, The Guardian, and Forbes. When he’s not writing, James enjoys spending time with his family and playing golf.
