Registering an Assumed Business Name

Step 1 - Completing The Application

Businesses required to register an assumed name in Cook County must complete the Assumed Business Name Application. The nature of the business must be disclosed at the time of the application.

Please read the instructions carefully.

How to complete the application

1. Obtain an Assumed Name Application
   
• Online: Download and print an application*.
  
• Call: Request that the Cook County Clerk's office send you an application by calling the Assumed Name Unit at (312) 603-7790.
  
• Mail: Request an application by writing to:
• Cook County Clerk David Orr
  Bureau of Vital Records
  Attn: Assumed Name Unit
  P.O. Box 642570
  Chicago, IL 60664-2570
• Visit: Pick up an application at:
• Cook County Building
  Bureau of Vital Records
  Assumed Name Unit
  50 W. Washington
  West concourse level, Suite 114
  Chicago, IL
  
2. List your business' assumed name on the application.
   
3. List the business address.
   
4. List the nature of the business ("pharmacy," "sporting goods," etc.).
   
5. List the full names of each person owning the business, along with each person's full and complete residence address, including city, state and zip code.
   
6. Have all owners sign in the spaces provided.
   
7. Have the application notarized by a licensed Notary Public.
   
8. Include the $50 application fee payable in person by cash, check or money order, or by mail with check or money order made payable to "Cook County Clerk".
   
9. Complete the Copy of Legal Notice to be Published form and return it with your application.