ILLINOIS

Illinois is one of the most respected production centers in the country. Chicago’s distinct skyline has appeared in global smash-hits like The Dark Knight and Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. The city attracts billions of dollars in local revenue every year from the number of productions highlighting Chicago’s gorgeous lakefront to its underground alleys and its well-manicured parks.

While the city of Chicago is managed by its own film office, the state of Illinois promotes the unique array of locations available. Urban sprawls can also be found in the likes of Springfield and Bloomington, while just an hour south of the Windy City are mile after mile of farmlands and historic farmhouses. With an eye for diversity, inclusion and opportunity, the state of Illinois provides a plethora of resources to ensure the success of every production.

Incentive Type Transferable Non-Refundable Tax Credit

Incentive Amount $100,000

Minimum Spend 30%

Bonus 15% on salaries of individuals that live in an economically disadvantaged area (at least 13.8% unemployment).

Audit Requirements

CPA must be approved by Illinois Film Office.

Application Applications must be at least 5 business days before the first day of photography. Applications must include a plan outlining goals for diversity in hiring.

Sales Use Tax Relief No

Hotel Occupancy Tax Relief Yes

Sunset Date

December 2026

Indiana recently introduced a generous 30% tax credit program to further entice productions, but the state already has diverse settings for almost any story. The Northwest region of the state is home to some of the rarest shorelines of Lake Michigan, recently protected as a national park in 2019. The sky-scraping dunes lining the shore transport you to another planet, providing a striking background in all seasons. Indiana Caverns is an underground cave system explorable by boat or by foot. Located at the southern tip of the state, it's a remarkable location just five miles off of I-65.

Indiana is home to cities big and small, each with a unique flair. Transformers: Dark of the Moon and A Nightmare on Elm Street were just two of many feature films produced in Gary. Throughout the state, you don’t have to travel far to come across some of the most charming small towns in midwestern America.