LLC by State Guide

LLC by State Guide › Compare › Delaware vs Illinois

Delaware vs Illinois LLC (2026)

Delaware is cheaper to form, by $40. Illinois is cheaper to keep, by $325 a year. Over five years Illinois costs $1,260 less in state fees. Mainstay Filing, our best overall pick, files in either state for $199 a year.

  • Official sources, checked October 20, 2026

Side by side

MeasureDelawareIllinois
Filing fee$110$150
Yearly reportYearly, $400Yearly, $75
Report cost per year$400$75
5-year state cost$1,710$450
10-year state cost$3,710$825
Registered agentRequiredRequired
Change-agent fee$50$25
ExtrasNone listedNone listed
Best overall in either state

Mainstay Filing

Our rating: 4.9 out of 5

$199 / year, same at renewal

  • LLC formation, prepared and filed
  • Registered agent, all year
  • EIN application (with an SSN or ITIN)
  • Annual report filed every year it is due where the state requires one
  • Compliance reminders and stored documents

Price from the Mainstay Filing pricing and FAQ pages, checked October 21, 2026. State fees are passed through at cost and shown before you pay.

Questions

Is Delaware or Illinois cheaper for an LLC?

Delaware is cheaper to form, by $40. Illinois is cheaper to keep, by $325 a year. Over five years Illinois costs $1,260 less in state fees.

Which has the lower filing fee, Delaware or Illinois?

Delaware: $110. Illinois: $150.

Do I need a registered agent in Delaware and Illinois?

Delaware: required. Illinois: required.

Sources