Whether you’re celebrating a new marriage, embracing a fresh start after divorce, or simply ready to align your name with who you truly are, updating your legal name in Chicago can feel like a lot. The process is straightforward — but only once you know exactly where to go, what forms to bring, and how the steps flow together.
This updated guide breaks everything down clearly and in the right order so you can change your name in Chicago and Cook County without wasting time in lines (or fighting with paperwork that makes zero sense).
Step 1: Get Your Legal Name Change Document
Depending on why you’re changing your name, the document you start with will be different.
If you just got married
All you need is your certified marriage certificate from the Cook County Clerk.
👉 Request it online:
Cook County Clerk – Marriage Certificates
If you’re divorced
You need a divorce decree with your restored/maiden name listed. If your decree does not include a name restoration line, you’ll need to:
✔ file a separate legal name change in court (more below),
OR
✔ request a modification from the court where your divorce was finalized.
If you’re changing your name for any other reason
You’ll need a court-ordered name change.
👉 File through the Circuit Court of Cook County (Chancery Division).
You’ll complete a petition, pay a fee, and attend a brief court hearing.
Step 2: Change Your Name with Social Security
Before you can update ANYTHING else, you must update your name with the Social Security Administration (SSA).
What to bring:
- Certified marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order
- Current Social Security card
- Valid ID (Illinois driver’s license, state ID, or passport)
How to submit your application
As of 2025, you must mail or visit in person with the paper SS-5 form.
SSA does not allow online name changes; however, you can begin the process online.
This step is FREE.
Step 3: Update Your Illinois Driver’s License or State ID
Once your Social Security record is updated (usually 24–48 hours), you can change your name on your driver’s license or state ID.
Make an appointment to visit any Illinois Secretary of State (DMV) facility.
Bring:
- Your updated SSA name confirmation (not always required but recommended)
- Certified name change document (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order)
- Your current ID
You will take a new photo.
A new license typically costs $5 for a name change (prices may vary).
Step 4: Update Your Name Everywhere Else
After Social Security and the DMV, update your name everywhere else:
Financial Institutions
- Banks & credit unions
- Credit cards
- PayPal / Cash App / Venmo
- Loans or mortgages
Employment
- HR records
- Payroll systems
- Retirement accounts
- Health insurance
Home & Lifestyle
- Utility bills
- Lease or property title
- Car title & registration
- Medical providers
- Subscriptions & memberships
- Travel accounts (TSA PreCheck, airline reward programs, hotel rewards)
Passport
If you’re traveling internationally, update your passport ASAP — name changes here can take 6–8 weeks unless expedited.
Special Note for Brides & Newlyweds
If you’re newly married — congratulations!
But here’s the fun part:
You don’t have to change your name at all.
You can take your partner’s last name, keep yours, hyphenate, or create a blended family name unique to both of you.
Make it a choice based on identity, not pressure.
Love is about alignment, not paperwork.
Special Note for Divorcées
As someone who has recently walked this road myself, here’s what I can tell you:
Your name change is not about going backward.
It’s about reclaiming your identity, your voice, and your power.
If changing your name helps you step into your next chapter with clarity, do it proudly.
If keeping your married name feels aligned for business or parenting, that’s valid too.
Your name. Your rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to update everything on the same day?
No. Social Security first, then DMV. Everything else can be done slowly over time.
Do I need to publish a notice in a newspaper?
Not for marriage or divorce name changes.
For court-ordered name changes, publication is sometimes required unless waived.
Can I change my child’s last name too?
Yes, but additional parental consent and court steps are required.
How long does the whole process take?
- Social Security: 1–2 days
- Driver’s license: same day
- Banks & work: same day to 1 week
- Passport: 6–8 weeks
Final Thoughts
Changing your name can feel emotional, empowering, confusing, or symbolic — sometimes all at once. Whether you’re stepping into a new marriage, reclaiming yourself after divorce, or choosing a name that fully aligns with who you are now, you deserve for the process to be simple and stress-free.
If you need guidance navigating wedding, divorce, or identity transitions, I’m here to help.
✨ Chicago Love Connection — Weddings. Coaching. Fresh Starts.
Because love and alignment deserve clarity.