MIDWEST FILM INCENTIVES
Watner Bros. Pictures
MAXIMIZE YOUR NEXT PROJECT'S BUDGET WITH BEAUTIFUL WATER VIEWS AND CITY SKYLINES
T
he Great Lakes region offers a variety of visuals to suit your next project. From dense forests and coastlines to bustling cityscapes, there is a landscape in this area to match your creative vision.
Dark Knight
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. Additional blockbusters filmed in the state include Divergent, Home Alone, Groundhog Day and The Blues Brothers. The city attracts billions of dollars in local revenue from the number of productions highlighting Chicago’s gorgeous lakefront to 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. 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
Tax credit eligibility $50,000 in Illinois production spend for a project less than 30 minutes, $100,000 in Illinois production spend for a project 30 minutes or more.
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. Commercial production applications filed with the Illinois Film Office 24 hours before filming begins in Illinois
Sales Use Tax Relief
No
Hotel Occupancy Tax Relief Yes Chicago's iconic lakefront and downtown
DestinationFilmGuide.com
Sunset Date
December 31, 2026
DESTINATION FILM GUIDE
31