Business requirements
SBA’s Business Guide lists the requirements needed to start, grow, and expand your business. Since laws and taxes vary by state, here’s what you need to do before starting your business in our area.
Business name and registration
Register your business name with the county clerk where your business is located. If you are a corporation, you will also need to register with the Secretary of State.
Business licensing and zoning
Licenses are typically administered by a variety of state and local departments. It is important to consider zoning regulations when choosing a site for your business. Contact the local business license office where you plan to locate your business. You may not be permitted to conduct business out of your home or engage in industrial activity in a retail district.
Taxes
Illinois Taxpayer Assistance Centers
230 S. Dearborn St.
Chicago, Il 60604
Phone: 312-292-4912
Illinois Taxpayer Service Center
100 W. Randolph St., 7th Floor
Chicago, Illinois 60601
Phone: 800-732-8866
Health and safety
Illinois Department of Labor
160 N. LaSalle, 13th Floor., Suite C
Chicago, Il 60601
Phone: 312-793-2800
Illinois OSHA
701 Lee St., Suite 950
Des Plaines, IL 60016
Phone: 847-227-1700
State small business profiles
Need information on the local business landscape? SBA's Office of Advocacy has the latest demographic and statistics on local small business economic activity.
Local assistance
Need help? Get free business counseling in your area.SBA lending in our area
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Loan programs
Learn more about SBA's 7(a) loans, 504 loans, and microloans that you can use for your business. -
Local lenders
Download a list of participating lenders in our area. -
Lender Match
Describe your business needs and get matched with an SBA-backed lender in your area. -
Lending activity reports
View 7(a) and 504 lending activity reports from our district.
Additional local resources
Download our guide to SBA resources
Learn about the opportunities available for small businesses nationwide.