The Stress Free Officiant

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 •       Both you and your partner must appear together at the Cook County Clerk's Office to apply for a marriage license.
        •       Bring valid identification, such as a driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID.
        •       Complete the marriage license application form provided by the Clerk's Office.
        •       Pay the required fee. Fees may vary, so check the current fee schedule beforehand. 

  •       In Illinois, there's a one-day waiting period between obtaining the marriage license and the ceremony. However, this waiting period can be waived for an additional fee if both parties are Illinois residents and provide proof of completion of a 4-hour premarital counseling course. 

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 •       Decide on the type of ceremony you want, including the location, date, and time.
•       If you're having a religious ceremony, consult with your officiant about any requirements or rituals. 

   •       After the ceremony, the officiant and witnesses (if required) will sign the marriage license.
   •       Ensure that all information on the license is accurate before it's signed. 

   •       The completed marriage license must be returned to the Cook County Clerk's Office for recording within 60 days of the wedding ceremony.
   •       The Clerk's Office will issue a certified copy of the marriage certificate after the license is recorded. 

  •       Once the marriage license is recorded, you can request certified copies of the marriage certificate for legal purposes, such as changing your name, updating identification documents, or applying for spousal benefits.