How to Change Your Name in Illinois Without a Lawyer
How to Change Your Name in Illinois Without a Lawyer
A complete guide with court process, fees, and timeline
Introduction: Why Name Change in Illinois Feels Harder Than It Is
Many Illinois residents believe changing a legal name automatically means hiring a lawyer, attending multiple court hearings, and spending hundreds of dollars. Because of this assumption, people often postpone a name change for years—even when it is personally important.
In reality, Illinois law allows adults to change their legal name on their own, as long as they follow the correct court process and meet basic eligibility rules. While Illinois has stricter procedures than some states, it is still very manageable without legal representation.
This guide explains the Illinois name change process step by step, including required documents, filing fees, court expectations, and common Illinois-specific mistakes to avoid. This article is for general informational purposes only, not legal advice.
Who Can Legally Change Their Name in Illinois?
You may request a name change in Illinois if:
You are 18 years or older
You have lived in Illinois for at least 6 months
Your request is not intended to commit fraud or avoid legal responsibility
You are not attempting to interfere with criminal or financial obligations
Courts may deny applications that appear misleading or incomplete.
Which Court Handles Name Changes in Illinois?
Illinois handles adult name changes through the:
Circuit Court of the county where you live
This is important because:
Each county follows state law
Local procedures may vary slightly
Most cases require at least one court appearance
Step-by-Step: How to Change Your Name in Illinois Without a Lawyer
Step 1: Complete the Illinois Name Change Petition
Illinois requires a formal court petition, usually titled:
“Petition for Change of Name”
The petition includes:
Your current legal name
Your requested new name
Your address and length of residency
A statement confirming the change is not for illegal purposes
Accuracy is critical—errors may delay approval.
Step 2: File the Petition With the Circuit Court Clerk
Take your completed petition to the Clerk of the Circuit Court in your county.
You will:
File the paperwork
Pay the filing fee
Receive a case number and hearing date
💰 Illinois Filing Fee (Estimated):
$150 – $350
(depending on county)
Cook County is typically at the higher end.
Step 3: Publish a Name Change Notice (Required in Illinois)
Illinois law requires publication for most adult name changes.
You must:
Publish a notice in a local newspaper
Run the notice once per week for 3 consecutive weeks
Use a court-approved format
💰 Publication Cost:
$60 – $150 (varies by newspaper)
After publication, the newspaper provides a Proof of Publication.
Step 4: Attend the Court Hearing
Illinois usually requires a hearing before a judge.
At the hearing, the judge may ask:
Why you want to change your name
Whether you have criminal or financial obligations
If the request is made in good faith
Hearings are usually short and non-confrontational.
Step 5: Receive the Court Order Granting the Name Change
If approved, the judge signs an Order for Name Change.
Request certified copies immediately.
💰 Certified Copy Cost:
$5 – $10 per copy
Total Cost of a Name Change in Illinois
Expense
Estimated Cost
Court filing fee
$150 – $350
Newspaper publication
$60 – $150
Certified copies
$10 – $30
Estimated Total Cost
$220 – $530
Hiring a lawyer typically costs $800 – $1,500, depending on location.
How Long Does the Illinois Name Change Process Take?
⏳ Typical timeline:
Filing to hearing: 4–8 weeks
Publication period: 3 weeks
Total process: 6–10 weeks
Cook County cases may take longer.
After Approval: Updating Your Name in Illinois
Once you receive the court order, update your records in this order:
Social Security Administration
No fee
Must be done first
Illinois Secretary of State (DMV)
Driver’s license or state ID
Fee varies by document type
Banks, Employers, Insurance Providers
Certified court order required
Common Illinois-Specific Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Forgetting Publication
Illinois courts will not approve a name change without proof of publication.
❌ Choosing the Wrong Newspaper
Some courts only accept certain approved publications.
❌ Filing Too Early
You must meet the 6-month residency requirement.
❌ Assuming All Counties Cost the Same
Fees vary widely—always confirm locally.
Is It Safe to Change Your Name in Illinois Without a Lawyer?
Yes, if:
Your case is straightforward
You follow publication rules
You attend the hearing prepared
Most adult applicants successfully complete the process without legal representation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I change my last name only in Illinois?
Yes. You may change your first name, last name, or both.
Is publication always required?
In most adult cases, yes. Exceptions are rare.
Do I need fingerprints?
Generally no, unless ordered by the court.
Can I file online?
Some counties allow e-filing, but hearings are still required.
How many certified copies should I get?
At least two or three are recommended.
Final Thoughts
Illinois has a more structured name change process than some states, but it is still accessible to individuals who are willing to follow each step carefully. With patience and proper preparation, you can legally change your name without a lawyer and avoid unnecessary expenses.
