Remote Accounting Jobs in Illinois

Working remotely in accounting from Illinois

Chicago is a global center for futures and derivatives trading, and it also carries deep commercial real estate, insurance, and manufacturing sectors. All of the largest accounting firms run major offices there, and downstate agriculture adds farm and cooperative accounting.

Major hiring areas in the state include Chicago, Naperville, Rockford, Peoria. Because these roles are remote, you are not limited to employers headquartered nearby: a Illinois resident can work for a company in any state, which is what makes the remote market worth watching.

State income tax if you work remotely from Illinois

Illinois levies a flat state income tax on wage income.

If you live in Illinois and work for an employer based elsewhere, you generally owe Illinois income tax on those earnings, and your employer may need to register for withholding in the state. A tax professional can confirm how this applies to you.

CPA licensing in Illinois

CPA licenses are issued by state, not federally. Candidates in Illinois are licensed through the Illinois Board of Examiners. Many remote roles do not require a CPA at all, and some employers accept a license from any state, so check the listing before ruling yourself out. Our guide to accounting certifications covers which credentials actually move the needle for remote work.

Remote roles hiring most often

• Remote bookkeeper, the most accessible entry point
• Remote staff accountant, steady demand at every level
• Remote controller, senior roles paying six figures
• Remote financial analyst, FP&A and corporate finance
• Remote tax accountant, year round and seasonal work

New to remote work? Start with how to find remote accounting jobs, or check the salary guide to see what these roles pay.