Civil Union Certificates

Cook County Vital Records keeps official records of civil unions that occur in Chicago and suburban Cook County.

A civil union license is filed with the Clerk's Bureau of Vital Records after the civil union ceremony takes place. The officiant performing the ceremony completes and signs the civil union license and returns it to the Clerk's office, where it is recorded.

After that occurs, the Clerk's office can issue you a certified copy of your civil union certificate upon request. Civil union certificates are not automatically sent to couples.

 

Three types of civil union certificates

Standard Certificates

Certified legal copies of civil union records are $15 and $4 for each additional copy. Five ways to order are shown below.

  

Standard Certificate

$15

Wallet Certificates

A set of (2) wallet-sized civil union records are $15 and $4 for each additional copy. Although smaller, these records are also certified legal copies of your marriage or civil union and perfect for carrying in your pocket. Order in person at one of our locations (same-day service available only at our downtown office) or fill out a Request Form and apply by mail. Not available online.

  


$15

 

Commemorative Certificates

Art-quality commemorative certificates of a civil union make an ideal keepsake or gift. Choose from ten original designs by local artists. Ready to frame and printed on canvas, commemorative certificates are $65 and include a free certified legal record. Order online at our commemorative certificate store or visit one of our locations (same-day service available only at our downtown office).

  

 

$65

 

Requesting a standard civil union certificate

Order one of five ways:

1. In Person

Visit us in person at one of the Clerk's locations 

2. Order Online
Order Online - A $13.45 processing fee is charged by VitalChek. All major credit cards are accepted.
3. Order by Phone

Call Toll-Free: (866) 252-8974

4. Order by Mail
Mail your request to:
Cook County Clerk's Office
Bureau of Vital Records
P.O. Box 641070
Chicago, IL 60664-1070
 
Include the following items:
  • a photocopy of your photo identification
  • a check or money order payable to the Cook County Clerk for $15 (additional copies of the same record cost $4 each at the time of request)
  • a self-addressed stamped envelope
  • Note: Be sure to include your phone number with your mail request.
5. Go to a local Currency Exchange
  • Call (847) 759-8905 for Currency Exchange hours and locations in Chicago and suburban Cook County, or visit www.mycurrencyexchange.com.
  • There is a $5 surcharge for records obtained at Currency Exchanges.

 

Requesting a WALLET civil union certificate

Order one of two ways (NOT available online):

1. In Person
  • Same-day delivery available only at our downtown office.
2. Write us
Mail your request to:
Cook County Clerk's Office
Bureau of Vital Records
P.O. Box 641070
Chicago, IL 60664-1070
 
Same-day delivery available only at our downtown office.
 
Include the following items:
  • a completed Civil Union Certificate Request Form*
  • a photocopy of your photo identification
  • a check or money order payable to the Cook County Clerk for $15 (additional copies of the same record cost $4 each)
  • a self-addressed stamped envelope
  • Note: Be sure to include your phone number with your mail request.

 

Requesting a COMMEMORATIVE civil union certificate

Order one of two ways:

1. Online
2. In Person

Visit us in person at one of the Clerk's locations.

  • Same-day delivery available only at our downtown office.