Changing your last name in Illinois primarily involves a court filing fee of $314.00. This is the core expense associated with initiating the legal process for a name change in the state.
Understanding the Cost and Process
The stated fee of $314.00 covers the necessary court filing for a name change case. This fee is paid to the Circuit Clerk when you file your petition to legally change your name. It's important to understand that this fee specifically applies to adult name changes.
Here’s a breakdown of key aspects:
- Filing Fee: The main direct cost is the $314.00 court filing fee. This initiates your name change case.
- Separate Cases for Minors: If you are changing the name of a minor, they cannot be included in an adult's name change case. A separate case specifically for a Minor Name Change must be filed, which would incur its own filing fee.
- Setting a Court Date: After filing your case, you will need to request a court date. You can typically do this by contacting the Circuit Clerk Civil Division. For example, in some Illinois counties, you would call a specific number, such as (815)334-4310, to arrange your court appearance.
Summary of Costs and Steps
To make it easy to understand, here’s a quick overview:
| Item | Cost (Illinois) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Name Change Filing Fee | $314.00 | Required payment to the Circuit Clerk to start your legal name change case. |
Important Considerations
- Court Petition: The process begins by filing a petition with the Circuit Clerk. This document formally requests the court to approve your name change.
- Court Appearance: After filing, you will likely need to appear in court before a judge who will review your petition and, if everything is in order, issue an order granting your name change.
- Required Documents: You will need to bring all necessary identification and documents as required by the court.
- Post-Court Steps: Once the name change is granted, you will receive a court order. This order is crucial for updating your name on all official documents, including your driver's license, social security card, passport, and financial accounts.
While the $314.00 filing fee is the primary direct cost for the court process, it's essential to factor in time spent on preparing documents and attending court.
