Clerk Offers Wallet-Sized Civil Union, Marriage Certificates

Cook County Clerk David Orr announced last week that new wallet-sized certificates have been made available for same sex couples with a civil union, married couples with two different last names or any pair who wants to carry proof of their relationship.

The legal, embossed certificates are available for anyone married or civilly united in Cook County for the same $15 fee as a standard-sized certificate. The set of two wallet-sized marriage or civil union certificates includes names, license number, the clerk's signature and an embossed Cook County seal, according to the clerk's office.

Wallet certificates can be ordered at any of the Cook County Clerk's Bureau of Vital Records locations. Same day service is only available at the downtown Chicago office in the lower level of the Daley Center, 50 W. Washington St.

Couples can also order by mail. Download a form on the county's website and follow the instructions.

Orr's office also offers art quality commemorative certificates for married and united couples. Choose from nine original designs by local artists.

Ready to frame and printed on canvas, commemorative certificates are $64 and include a free certified legal record. Order online at the commemorative certificate store or visit one of six office locations.

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