Wedding Planner Permit Requirements in Chicago, IL

Complete permit and license guide for starting a wedding planner in Chicago, Cook County, Illinois.

$100 -- $600 1–3 weeks to obtain all required licenses 5 requirements

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .

Chicago / Cook County Requirements

2 requirements
1

Chicago Business License

All businesses operating in Chicago must obtain a general Business License from the Chicago Department of Business Affairs & Consumer Protection. Wedding planners operating as sole proprietors, LLCs, or corporations need this license to legally conduct business. Renewal is required annually.

$100–$500/year depending on gross receipts1–3 weeks
Official government source
2

DBA (Doing Business As) Registration

If operating under a trade name (e.g., "Perfect Day Events" rather than your legal name), you must file a Fictitious Business Name (DBA) with Cook County. This is required before accepting payments under a business name.

$15–$501–2 weeks
Official government source

Illinois State Requirements

2 requirements
1

Illinois Business Registration / Sales Tax License

Required for all businesses conducting business in Illinois. Register with the Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR).

Free1–5 business days
Official government source
2

General Liability Insurance (Recommended)

Wedding planners in Illinois are not legally required to carry liability insurance, but most venues require proof of $1M–$2M general liability coverage before allowing a planner to work on-site. Many clients also require it in your contract.

$400–$1,200/yearSame day (online quotes)
Official government source

Federal Requirements

1 requirement
1

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

Required if you have employees, operate as an LLC/corporation, or file certain business tax returns. Free from the IRS. Sole proprietors with no employees may use their SSN instead.

FreeImmediate (online)
Official government source

Official Sources

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