About the Clerk

County Clerk & Recorder

Tasha Sims

The DeKalb County Clerk & Recorder’s Office serves as a vital link between county government and DeKalb County residents. Through its four primary divisions—Elections, Clerk, Recorder, and Tax Extension/Redemption—the office provides essential services that impact citizens, businesses, property owners, and local governments every day.

The Elections Division administers all federal, state, county, and local elections in DeKalb County. Responsibilities include voter registration, candidate filings, election judge recruitment and training, early voting, vote-by-mail, ballot preparation, and election administration in accordance with Illinois law.

The Clerk’s Division provides a wide range of services to the public, including the issuance of vital records, marriage licenses, passports, and assumed business name registrations. The division also serves as the official record keeper for County Board proceedings and maintains historical records dating back to 1837. In addition, the office administers the annual filing of Ethics Statements for elected and certain appointed officials throughout the county.

The Recorder’s Division preserves and provides access to the county’s official land records, ensuring the integrity of documents that affect real property ownership and interests. Recorded documents include deeds, mortgages, liens, plats, military discharges, and other instruments authorized by law.

The Tax Extension and Redemption Division administers the annual property tax extension process for all taxing districts within DeKalb County and oversees the redemption of delinquent property taxes. Working closely with local taxing bodies, the Treasurer’s Office, and taxpayers, the division helps ensure the accurate administration of Illinois property tax laws.

The DeKalb County Clerk & Recorder’s Office is committed to providing transparent, accessible, accurate, and efficient public service while preserving the records and processes that support our county’s government, property rights, and elections.