Ditching Your Drab Dewey Decimal System of a Last Name? Here's the Lowdown on Changing It After Marriage in Illinois
So you just tied the knot! Congratulations! Now, besides the whole "happily ever after" bit, there's that pesky detail of changing your last name. But before you go all Beyonce and drop your maiden name like a hot potato (although, that would be a power move), let's talk about the nitty-gritty: the cost of this name change odyssey in the glorious state of Illinois.
Buckle Up, Buttercup, It Ain't Free!
Yes, yes, we know, love shouldn't cost a thing. But unfortunately, changing your last name requires a little legwork and some moolah. Don't worry, it's not like buying a whole new identity (although that does sound intriguing...). Here's a breakdown of the potential price tags:
- Court Filing Fees: This one can vary depending on your county. Think of it like a registration fee for your fancy new name. In Cook County, for example, you might be shelling out around $388. Other counties might be a little kinder to your wallet, but expect it to be somewhere in the $300-$400 ballpark.
- Publication Fees: Because everyone needs to be notified that you're no longer Mildred Milderson and are now Mildred McAwesome (or whatever your new name fancy is). Newspapers charge a fee to publish this legal announcement, and it can range from $50 to $150.
- Certified Copies: You might need a certified copy of the court order for some official name-change business. These are typically a steal at $5-$10 a pop.
So, How Much is the Grand Total?
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Drumroll please... Depending on your county and the publication fees, you're probably looking at somewhere between $400 and $600. Hey, that's way cheaper than a boob job, and arguably a much better investment (unless your dream is to look like Pamela Anderson in Barb Wire, no judgement here).
Bonus Tip: If you're feeling particularly frugal, some online services can help you with the paperwork for a fee (usually less than $100).
But Wait, There's More!
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Don't forget, this is just the legal name change. You'll still need to update your name with Social Security, Driver's License, bank accounts, and basically any place where your old name is lurking. But hey, at least you'll have a spiffy new name to write on all those pesky forms!
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| How Much Does It Cost To Change Your Last Name In Illinois After Marriage |
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions for the Name-Change Challenged
How to File for a Name Change in Illinois?
Head over to the Illinois Courts website (https://www.illinoiscourts.gov/forms/approved-forms/forms-approved-forms-circuit-court/name-change) for all the official info and forms.
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How Long Does it Take to Change Your Name in Illinois?
The whole process can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the court's schedule.
How Much Does it Cost to Change Your Name on Social Security?
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Free! You just need to bring your marriage certificate and court order to your local Social Security office.
How Much Does it Cost to Change Your Name on Your Driver's License?
It's a steal! In Illinois, it's just $5.
How Do I Know When to Stop Updating My Name with Different Places?
When you wake up one morning and realize you've accidentally signed your grocery receipt "Beyonce." That's probably your cue to stop.
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