Are you self-motivated? Do you have a product or service which is in high demand? If so, you might want to consider joining the growing number of individuals who run successful businesses from their homes.
Personal computers and Internet capabilities have had a positive impact on the success of home based businesses by providing wide visibility, instant communication with customers and suppliers, and easy accounting functions. Basing a business in-home can eliminate overhead if storage is not an issue. Additionally, the portion of the home used for business and some other operational expenses can usually be used as tax deductions.
If you have an interest in starting a home-based business, your very first steps should be making a feasibility study and developing a business plan. Working from home requires great personal motivation and the ability to stay focused despite many distractions. Study local zoning laws as they may prohibit some types of home businesses. Your study should also include the amount of money you can afford to lose before the business shows a profit.
There are many state, federal, and private entities ready to assist you in all areas of startup or expansion of your home based business. They provide guidance in forming a business plan, picking the right name for your business, selecting the best legal structure, understanding tax implications, organizing accounting procedures, as well as many other topics.
The following links are a few of the many useful resources available.
Illinois workNet "Start A Business" 
Illinois Small Business Administration on-line guidance and training sessions in all areas of business start-up and expansion
All Business e-zine helps you avoid the most common errors
Entrepreneur.com e-zine guide for small business startup
SCORE provides free and confidential counseling to small businesses