Marriage records in Macon County, Illinois, are available through several channels. MaconCourt.us allows you to quickly start searching for publicly available marriage record information. Additionally, the County Clerk's office maintains records of marriage licenses and issues copies of certificates. Requests can be submitted in person at the clerk's office in Decatur, by mail, or through Illinois state online portals. Below is a practical step-by-step guide.
Macon Marriage Records Search
In Macon County, marriage records are maintained by the County Clerk. This office issues marriage licenses, registers returned certificates, and keeps historical records of marriages conducted within the county. The collection includes:
- Marriage licenses issued to couples before the ceremony
- Returned marriage certificates signed by the officiant and registered after the ceremony
- Historical records — some dating back to the late 19th century
The documents are public records. The clerk's office is located at:
The official county website has a Vital Records section that describes the procedure for obtaining copies of civil status acts, including birth certificates. Marriage records are processed by the same clerk's office.
Certified Marriage Record Copies and Fees in Macon
Fees for copies of marriage records are set according to Illinois state law and the internal policy of the clerk's office. Below is an approximate fee table — exact amounts are recommended to be confirmed directly with the office before submitting a request.
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Certified copy of a marriage certificate | Check with County Clerk |
| Additional copy (in the same order) | Usually lower than the first copy |
| Search fee | May be charged separately |
According to the Illinois Vital Records Act, certified copies have legal force and are suitable for use in court cases, immigration processes, and document changes. Uncertified (informational) copies, if issued by the office, are marked with an appropriate stamp and are not accepted as an official document.
Processing time for in-person requests is usually the same day or within a few business days. Mail requests may take one to three weeks.
Order Marriage Certificates Online or In Person in Macon
There are several ways to order a copy of a marriage certificate in Macon County.
In Person
- Visit the County Clerk's office at 141 South Main Street, Room 104, Decatur, IL 62523.
- Provide valid photo identification.
- Inform the clerk of the spouses' names and the approximate date of marriage.
- Pay the fee — cash, check, or money order is accepted (confirm acceptable forms of payment in advance).
By Mail
Send a written request to the clerk's office address. Include in the letter:
- Full names of both individuals who were married
- Approximate date and place of marriage registration
- A copy of your identification
- A check or money order for the appropriate fee, made payable to Macon County Clerk
- A self-addressed stamped envelope
Online
The state of Illinois offers the possibility to order some civil status acts through the Illinois Department of Public Health portal. However, for marriage records, the primary source remains the county clerk's office where the marriage was registered. Check the Vital Records section on the county website — there may be a link to an online form or additional instructions.
Records of dissolution of marriage are stored separately — in the Circuit Court of the county. The Illinois Department of Public Health does not issue certified copies of divorce decrees; they are obtained directly from the circuit court office at 253 East Wood Street, Decatur, IL 62523.
If you need assistance with the search or want to verify the availability of a record before making an official request, start with MaconCourt.us.