Renew Business License

Renew Business License

Using the Chicago Business Direct platform, you can renew your City of Chicago Business Licenses.
Things to keep in mind before you renew:

  • Outstanding Debt - If you owe the City money, you may still renew your business license online, however the license certificate will not be mailed to you until all debt holds are resolved.  License fees not paid on time will incur late fees, and may be subject to interest charges. 
  • Changes to the Licensing Account - If you have changed your business legal entity or officers/owners, you are required to report the changes to us within 60 days.  These changes should be filed before you renew your license(s).
    If you have changed your business location, do NOT renew your current license.  Licenses are specific to a location and are not transferable.  You will need to apply for a new a business license at your new address.

FAQs

How do I renew my Chicago business license?

 You will need the Business Account Number that was mailed to you with the business renewal notice at your business location address before your renewal deadline. You must create a User ID and password for access to Chicago Business Direct where you will begin your license renewal(s). 

Do I need a Chicago business license?

 A Chicago Business License is required to conduct, engage in, maintain, operate, or manage any business in the City of Chicago. However, there are business activities regulated by the State of Illinois that may be exempt from City licensing

What is Chicago's central business district?

 The Loop, one of Chicago's 77 designated community areas, is the central business district of the city and is the main section of Downtown Chicago. 

Community Q&A

You can ask any questions related to this service here. We will try to answer them soon!

Service Reminders

We will notify you at the right time so that you never miss a due date again!

Renew Business License

Renew Business License

Using the Chicago Business Direct platform, you can renew your City of Chicago Business Licenses.
Things to keep in mind before you renew:

  • Outstanding Debt - If you owe the City money, you may still renew your business license online, however the license certificate will not be mailed to you until all debt holds are resolved.  License fees not paid on time will incur late fees, and may be subject to interest charges. 
  • Changes to the Licensing Account - If you have changed your business legal entity or officers/owners, you are required to report the changes to us within 60 days.  These changes should be filed before you renew your license(s).
    If you have changed your business location, do NOT renew your current license.  Licenses are specific to a location and are not transferable.  You will need to apply for a new a business license at your new address.

FAQs

How do I renew my Chicago business license?

 You will need the Business Account Number that was mailed to you with the business renewal notice at your business location address before your renewal deadline. You must create a User ID and password for access to Chicago Business Direct where you will begin your license renewal(s). 

Do I need a Chicago business license?

 A Chicago Business License is required to conduct, engage in, maintain, operate, or manage any business in the City of Chicago. However, there are business activities regulated by the State of Illinois that may be exempt from City licensing

What is Chicago's central business district?

 The Loop, one of Chicago's 77 designated community areas, is the central business district of the city and is the main section of Downtown Chicago. 

Community Q&A

You can ask any questions related to this service here. We will try to answer them soon!

Service Reminders

We will notify you at the right time so that you never miss a due date again!

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