You will need to have a valid driver’s license, an approved name for your business, the square footage of your business location, IBT and FEIN. Do you have all the necessary documents and information to complete a Chicago business license application? Your business consultant can help you to determine what other agencies, whether local, state, and/or federal you will need to contact. When you apply for your business license, it may be reviewed by other entities, such as the Zoning Department, the Police Department, the Fire Department, and other agencies. The IRS may need to be contacted for a FEIN (federal employer’s tax ID number). For instance, you may need to contact the Illinois Department of Revenue to receive a IBT (Illinois business tax number). It is quite likely that you will need to apply for other licenses or permits beyond your Chicago business license. You are encouraged to set up an appointment with a business consultant before you begin the application process. Online application is reserved for those that are opening a retail business. You may also apply for a business license online by visiting the City of Chicago website. You may request a business license application in person between the hours of 8:30 a.m. Those that operate a business in Chicago will need to be issued a business license by the Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection at 121 North LaSalle Street, room 800. Are you planning to open or operate a business in the city of Chicago, Illinois?

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