Name Change Illinois After Marriage

Thinking about Illinois name change? If you’re considering changing your name after marriage in the Prairie State, we can give you 8 tips to simplify the process! Changing your name after marriage involves completing a series of federal and state name change forms. Interestingly enough, each state has different requirements, forms, and filing orders.

With over 15 years of dedicated service and having assisted more than 250,000 brides in their name change journey, MissNowMrs.com is a trusted authority in simplifying and streamlining the name change process. We have been mentioned in Martha Stewart Living and Forbes. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps of changing your name after marriage in Illinois, providing you with all the information you need to make this transition confidently. From obtaining your marriage certificate to updating your identification and documents, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive into this transformative journey together, ensuring that you can embrace your new name and the beautiful life you’re building with your spouse.

Obtaining Your Marriage Certificate

Before you embark on the exciting journey of changing your name after marriage in Illinois, you’ll need to secure a certified copy of your marriage certificate. This document is your key to officially proving your marital status and initiating the name change process. Here’s how to get started:

Locate the Issuing County Clerk’s Office:

The first step is to identify the county clerk’s office in the county where you applied for and received your marriage license. This is the same county where you were married. Each county in Illinois has its own clerk’s office responsible for marriage records.

Request Your Certified Copy:

Once you have the necessary information, submit your request for a certified copy of your marriage certificate. You may need to fill out an application form, provide identification, and pay a fee. Be sure to double-check all requirements with the county clerk to avoid any delays. While you are there, we recommend getting three copies.

Receive Your Certificate:

After your request is processed, you will receive your certified marriage certificate. Ensure that all the information on it is accurate and matches your records.

This certified marriage certificate will be your crucial document as you proceed with the name change process. Therefore, keep it safe and readily accessible, as you’ll need it when updating your Social Security information and other official documents.

Social Security Name Change in Illinois

With your certified marriage certificate in hand, it’s time to tackle the next important step in the name change process: updating your Social Security information. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through this crucial process:

Download the SS-5 Form:

Start by downloading the SS-5 form from the official Social Security Administration (SSA) website. This form is specifically designed for applying for a new or updated Social Security card.

Gather Required Documents:

Before heading to the Social Security office, ensure you have all the necessary documents ready. These typically include your completed SS-5 form, your current Social Security card, proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g., birth certificate or passport), and your certified marriage certificate.

Complete the SS-5 Form:

Carefully fill out the SS-5 form with your updated name and relevant personal information. Make sure all details are accurate and match the information on your marriage certificate.

Visit Your Local Social Security Office:

Locate your nearest Social Security office and schedule an appointment if necessary. Remember to bring your completed SS-5 form and all required documents, including your certified marriage certificate.

Submit Your Application:

At the Social Security office, submit your application in person. The SSA staff will review your documents, process your request, and provide you with a receipt or confirmation of your name change request.

For your Illinois name change you can opt to file the SS-5 form in-person at your local Social Security Administration Office, or file by mail. *Please note that if you opt to file by mail you will need to send your actual driver’s license or U.S. passport, not a photocopy. If you don’t have a passport, we encourage you to file in-person. This prevents being without your driver’s license for the two week processing time.

Await Your Updated Social Security Card:

After submitting your application, you will receive your updated Social Security card by mail. This card will reflect your new name, officially acknowledging your name change.

Updating your Social Security information is a crucial step in the name change process, as many other organizations and institutions will require your updated Social Security card as proof of your new name. Once you receive it, you’ll be well on your way to embracing your new identity after marriage in Illinois.

US Passport Name Change in Illinois

Next on the Illinois newlywed name change to-do list is updating your U.S. Passport with your new married name. You will need to complete the DS-11, DS-82, or DS-5504 depending on your current passport status. Again, you’ll need to file this form with your certified marriage certificate, current US passport, two recent 2×2 photos of yourself, and the appropriate filing fee. It can take several months to receive your updated passport.

If your most recent passport is less than a year old, then there is no fee to update your name. Otherwise the US Department of State does charge for the new passport. There are also fees associated with expediting the process if you’re in a rush.

IRS 8822 to Change Your Name in Illinois

The IRS 8822 is an optional form. Its purpose is to notify the IRS of your name change. The form only has 7 questions and has no associated filing fee. Because of this, we encourage newlyweds to file it to prevent any tax mishaps from occurring.

USPS Illinois Name Change

Updating your name with the United States Postal Service can be done by completing form 3575. Or you can go online to update your address. Choose the option which is easiest for you to ensure that you receive mail sent to you in your new married name.

Illinois Driver’s License Name Change

Now that you’ve successfully updated your Social Security and Passport information, it’s time to ensure that your identification reflects your new name. In Illinois, this process involves updating your driver’s license or state ID card. Follow these steps to make this transition seamless:

Prepare the Required Documents:

Gather essential documents, including your current driver’s license or state ID card, your certified marriage certificate, and proof of residency (e.g., utility bill or bank statement).

Locate the Nearest Driver Services Facility:

Find the nearest Illinois DMV office. You may want to check their website or call ahead to confirm their specific requirements and operating hours.

Complete the Required Forms:

Fill out the necessary name change forms provided by the DMV. These forms can often be downloaded from their website or obtained at the facility.

Visit the Driver Services Facility:

Head to the Driver Services facility with all your documents, including your completed forms, certified marriage certificate, and current identification.

Submit Your Application:

Present your documents to the staff at the facility and inform them of your name change due to marriage. They will process your request and take a new photo if required.

Pay The Applicable Fees:

Be prepared to pay the required fees for updating your driver’s license or state ID. Payment methods may vary, so it’s advisable to bring cash or a credit/debit card.

Receive Your Updated Identification:

After processing your application, you will be issued an updated driver’s license or state ID card with your new name. Ensure that all the details are accurate before leaving the facility.

Updating your driver’s license or state ID is a crucial step, as it’s one of the primary forms of identification you’ll use in your daily life. With your identification reflecting your new name, you can confidently proceed with other updates, such as those with banks, employers, and insurance providers, ensuring a smooth transition into your new identity after marriage in Illinois.

Illinois Voter Registration

Your Illinois Voter Registration Application is the next state-level name change form to be completed and filed. Simply answer the ten questions on the form. Afterwards mail your application to the State Board. You will receive a new Voter Registration card in your new name. This ensures your ability to vote in upcoming elections.

Creditors

Now that you’re finished filing your federal and state level name change forms, you’ll need to notify all of your banks, credit cards, insurance providers, mortgage providers, student loan providers, employers, utilities, professional license boards, memberships, and subscriptions of your new married name. Some companies can update your name by phone. However, others require completion of a name change form. Still others require an in-person office visit to make the switch on your account.

VI. Tips and Considerations

As you navigate the process of changing your name after marriage in Illinois, here are some valuable insider tips and considerations to keep in mind:

Start Early:

Begin the name change process as soon as possible after your wedding. While there’s no strict deadline, getting it done sooner ensures that your identification and documents match your new status.

Keep Multiple Copies:

Make several photocopies of your certified marriage certificate. This will save you time and effort when updating multiple institutions, as you can provide a copy instead of the original.

Be Patient:

Some government agencies and organizations may take time to update your information in their records. Be patient and keep copies of your old and new identification handy during this transitional period.

Notify All Relevant Parties:

Beyond updating your Social Security and driver’s license, remember to inform other institutions, including banks, insurance companies, employers, and any subscription services, of your name change.

Update Online Profiles:

Don’t forget to update your name on social media profiles and other online platforms if you choose to do so. This helps friends and acquaintances recognize your new identity.

Check Your Mail:

After submitting applications for name changes, keep an eye on your mailbox for updated identification cards and documents. Notify any discrepancies immediately.

Stay Organized:

Create a checklist or spreadsheet to track which organizations and institutions you’ve notified of your name change. This will help you stay organized throughout the process.

The Best Name Change Solution

If the name change process seems long and complicated, don’t worry! MissNowMrs is the easy name change solution. Our service and app were created by a newlywed fed up with the frustration and red tape associated with changing her name after marriage. Sign up today to go from Miss to Mrs. in a matter of minutes!
 

Depending on the Illinois County where you were married, you will have to contact that county for copies of your marriage certificate.

• Cook County
• DuPage County
• Lake County
• Will County
• Kane County

Other than that these instructions are the same for all cities in Illinois including Chicago, Aurora, Joliet, Naperville, Rockford, Elgin, Springfield, Peoria, Champaign, and Waukegan.