Illinois lesson 4 of 6
Get an EIN and open a bank account
Illinois does not issue a separate state tax number at formation. Your federal EIN is what banks and the Illinois Department of Revenue will use to identify the LLC.
Applying for the EIN
Apply on the IRS website free of charge once the Articles of Organization are filed. If the responsible party has a US social security number or ITIN, the EIN is issued immediately online. Otherwise the application goes in on Form SS-4 by fax or post.
Opening the account
Bring the filed Articles of Organization, the EIN confirmation letter, your operating agreement and identification for signers and significant owners. Requirements vary by bank, especially for non-resident owners, so confirm ahead of the appointment.
Mixing personal and business money is one of the fastest ways a court can disregard an LLC's liability protection. Keep the accounts separate from day one.
Key takeaways
- The EIN is free and issued by the IRS.
- Apply after the Articles of Organization are filed so details match.
- A clean line between personal and business funds protects the liability shield.
Official sources
Or let us file your Illinois LLC for you
Everything above is yours to use for free. If you would rather hand it over, we prepare and file the Articles of Organization (Form LLC-5.5), act as your registered agent, and track your ongoing deadlines.
Last reviewed: September 2026 - reviewed by Gullia Filing Legal & Formation Team