Cleaning Service Permit Requirements in Chicago, IL

Complete permit and license guide for starting a cleaning service in Chicago, Cook County, Illinois.

Updated 2026-03-13 6 stops $300–$700 est. 2–4 weeks for all registrations
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Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. This guide was compiled from public and official sources (last updated ) and has not yet been independently source-verified — confirm each requirement before acting on it.

Federal — start here

2 stops

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

    Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC or corporation. Free from the IRS.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

  2. OSHA Hazard Communication Standard Compliance

    If you employ workers who handle cleaning chemicals, comply with OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200): maintain Safety Data Sheets for all chemicals, proper labeling, and employee training.

    Official government source

    Free (compliance requirement, no permit fee)Ongoing compliance

State of Illinois

3 stops

  1. Illinois Department of Revenue — Retailers' Occupation Tax Registration (Sales Tax)

    Janitorial and cleaning services in Illinois are subject to state sales tax in certain categories. Commercial cleaning is taxable. Register with the Illinois Department of Revenue to collect and remit the 10.25% combined state and local sales tax rate in Chicago.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online registration via MyTax Illinois)

  2. Illinois Secretary of State — Business Entity Registration

    If operating as an LLC or corporation, register with the Illinois Secretary of State. Sole proprietors using a trade name should file an Assumed Business Name with the Cook County Clerk.

    $150 (LLC Articles of Organization); $30 (Assumed Business Name, Cook County)5–10 business days (online for LLC)

  3. Illinois Workers' Compensation Insurance

    Illinois law requires all employers (including cleaning businesses with even a single employee) to carry workers' compensation insurance. Failure to maintain coverage can result in significant penalties.

    Official government source

    $1,000–$5,000+/year depending on payroll and number of employeesObtain before first hire

City of Chicago / Cook County

1 stop

  1. City of Chicago Business License (General Business License)

    The City of Chicago requires most businesses operating within city limits to obtain a business license from the Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP). Cleaning businesses typically fall under the standard Business License category. License must be posted at the place of business and renewed annually.

    Official government source

    $250/year (standard 2-year term at $125/year or $250 every 2 years)2–4 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $300–$700 · 2–4 weeks for all registrations

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Official Sources

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