Illinois Professional LLC + Professional Corporation.
Licensed professionals in Illinois . doctors, lawyers, accountants, architects, engineers, and others . often must form a Professional LLC (PLLC) or Professional Corporation (PC) rather than a standard entity. This guide explains who qualifies, the licensure requirements, and what differs in formation.
Form a Illinois PLLC / PC →Who must form a professional entity in Illinois
Illinois typically requires a Professional LLC or Professional Corporation for state-licensed services including:
- Medical: physicians, surgeons, dentists, psychologists, chiropractors, optometrists.
- Legal: attorneys and law firms.
- Accounting: CPAs.
- Engineering + Architecture: licensed PEs and architects.
- Real estate: brokers in some Illinois jurisdictions.
- Other professionals licensed under Illinois occupational codes.
How Illinois professional entities differ from standard LLCs
All members or shareholders must be licensed in the same profession the entity practices.
Illinois licensing boards (medical, bar, accountancy) often must approve formation documents before the Illinois Secretary of State files them.
Entity name must include PLLC, PL, P.C., or similar designation depending on form chosen.
A PLLC or PC protects against business liabilities but not against professional malpractice. Carry insurance.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a PLLC instead of an LLC in Illinois?
Can a non-licensed person own a Illinois PLLC?
How does a Illinois PLLC differ from a standard LLC?
Does a Illinois PLLC protect me from malpractice claims?
What is a Professional Corporation (PC) in Illinois?
Can a Illinois PLLC elect S-Corp taxation?
Does File.Business form professional entities in Illinois?
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Disclosure. File.Business is a private business filing and compliance service. We are not a government agency and are not affiliated with the Illinois Secretary of State or any Secretary of State office. You may file directly with the Illinois Secretary of State. Information on this page is for general guidance only and is not legal, tax, or accounting advice. Fees and deadlines verified against the Illinois Secretary of State as of June 2026 and may change. For entity-specific guidance, consult a licensed Illinois attorney or CPA.