Illinois

Illinois’ pages are geared towards finding you services, agencies, and information that can give you an insight to the workings of government in the Prairie State. Timely and topical features keep you appraised of the workings of Illinois Government. The “Business” link from the front page leads you to an index of business oriented offerings focused on helping you set up successful commercial operations.

Secretary of State

Visit Secretary of State Jesse White’s Cyberdrive Illinois. Busy might be the best word to use to describe the Secretary’s position. His offices cover considerably more than just filings, incorporation and registrations of foreign corporations. The particular office responsible is the Department of Business Services, which regulates the incorporation process in Illinois. Download forms and fee schedules from their site. You can also conduct a preliminary name availability search while your visiting. They also cover such topics as trademarks, Uniform Commercial Code, and the various forms a business organization can take.

Commerce

A welcome wagon to the entrepreneurial set, the Department of Commerce and Community Affairs has a basket full of information at their site, attempting to tempt you into staying around for a while. It provides a good beginning point to learning about starting a business in Illinois. Visit their Development Center page, which is also filled with information regarding conducting business in Illinois.

Taxes The Illinois Department of Revenue is a destination that you want to spend some time at. Going into business with your eyes open regarding tax responsibilities can help you plan for the days when you have to meet the legal obligations of the place you conduct business. The good news is that the forms they provide, in PDF format, include instructions written in plain English. And don’t miss the Illinois Business Registration form, available at their site.

Legislation

If listening to live sessions of legislative proceedings is a guilty pleasure of yours, this place has them for you. Come spend some time at the web site of the Illinois General Assembly to monitor your representatives in action. Bills, and a compiled list of Illinois Statutes are available for your educational and viewing pleasure. Pictures of the Representatives and Senators, as well as biographical information, and phone numbers round out this site. It’s nice being able to put a face to a name, especially when that face represents you in the law making process.