Illinois Contractor Resources

Complete guide to licensing, lien laws, and compliance for contractors in Illinois.

📋 Licensing Requirements

Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (local licensing)

Visit Board Website →

Key Requirements:

  • No state-level general contractor license
  • Chicago requires General Contractor license
  • Cook County requires contractor registration
  • Specialty trades (electrical, plumbing) state-licensed
  • Local jurisdictions set their own requirements

⚖️ Lien Law Deadlines

Preliminary Notice: Notice of Intent to Lien required within 90 days of last furnishing (subcontractors/suppliers)

Filing Deadline: Within 4 months of last furnishing

Foreclosure Period: Within 2 years of filing lien

⚠️ Important: Missing lien deadlines can result in loss of payment rights. Always document your work and serve notices promptly.

💰 Tax Information

Sales Tax Rate: 6.25% state + local rates (up to 11% in Chicago)

Contractor Tax Notes: Materials taxable; labor generally exempt for new construction

📄 Document Templates

Download Illinois-specific contractor documents:

Complete Bundle

📞 Contact Information

Licensing Board

Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation

Springfield, IL 62701

Department of Revenue

Illinois Department of Revenue

Springfield, IL 62702

← Back to All States