Why You Should Always Sell with a Licensed Auctioneer in Illinois and Indiana

When you’re preparing to sell assets at auction - whether it’s estate contents, business liquidations, or collectibles - choosing the right auctioneer is crucial. In states like Illinois and Indiana, it's also a matter of law: auctioneers must be licensed.

Here’s why that matters - and how to make sure you’re working with the right professionals.

The Importance of Auctioneer Licensing

In states where it's required, licensing ensures auctioneers meet strict standards around education, ethics, and business practices. This protects both sellers and buyers throughout the auction process.

A licensed auctioneer is:

• ✅ Trained and tested on state-specific laws and industry standards

• ✅ Bound by a code of ethics and accountable to a regulatory body

• ✅ Properly insured to safeguard your assets

• ✅ Legally permitted to conduct auctions in the state

In contrast, using an unlicensed auctioneer in states like Illinois could leave you vulnerable to legal issues, financial loss, and fraudulent practices—with little to no recourse.

How to Verify an Auctioneer's License

It's easy (and encouraged!) to verify any auctioneer's credentials. Here's how:

🔍 In Illinois:

• Visit the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR):
  idfpr.illinois.gov

• Use the License Lookup tool to confirm current status.

🔍 In Indiana:

• Use the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (IPLA):
  in.gov/pla

• Search by name or license number to verify their active standing.

How to Ask About Licensing - Without Offending Anyone

Not sure how to bring it up? No worries! Professional auctioneers expect this question and welcome it. Here are a few simple, respectful ways to ask:

• “Since Illinois requires auctioneers to be licensed, I just wanted to confirm—do you have a current license?”

• “Can I get your license number for my records?”

• “Which states are you currently licensed in?”

If the answer is vague or defensive, consider it a red flag. A legitimate auctioneer will provide the info without hesitation.

Denotter Auctions: Fully Licensed & Ready to Serve

At Denotter Auctions, we’re proud to operate fully within legal and ethical standards in every state we serve. Here’s a look at our licensed team:

• 🏅 Michele, Principal Auctioneer — Licensed in Illinois and Indiana

• 🏅 Darryl — Licensed in Illinois and Indiana

• 🏅 Gary — Licensed in Illinois

• 🏢 Denotter Auctions — Holds a licensed auction firm license in Illinois

You can sell with confidence knowing our team is fully credentialed, accountable, and experienced.

The Bottom Line

Selling at auction involves valuable assets—don’t take chances. Work with professionals who follow the law, operate ethically, and bring true expertise to the process. That starts with being licensed in the states where they do business.

Looking for a fully licensed and reputable auction team? Contact Denotter Auctions today at 224-392-3101 and let us help you turn your assets into successful sales.