A birth certificate is a vital record that documents a person’s birth. The certificate is important for many purposes; key among them being to establish identity, family connections, age, and nationality. Losing your birth certificate can be a major headache, but luckily, it is relatively easy to replace. There are a few different ways that you can go about ordering a birth certificate online, but the process is generally pretty straightforward. Below are the steps to follow:
1. Contact the vital records office in your state
The records office is critical in maintaining birth certificates and other important records. You will need to submit a request form along with any required documentation and fees. The office will then process your request and send you the new certificate. In some states, you can order your birth certificate online through the state’s official website. The process is generally pretty similar, but you must create an account and log in before beginning the ordering process. The process for ordering a birth certificate from another country can vary, so it’s important to research what is required before you begin.
2. Provide personal documentation
The record’s office will require some basic information from you to process your request. This will likely include your personal name in full, parents’ names, date and place of birth as well as your current mailing address. You can also be asked to present identification documents like a passport or driving license. When applying online, you will need to complete and submit an application, along with the required documents.
3. Pay the retrieving and printing fees
There is usually a fee associated with ordering a new birth certificate. The amount will vary depending on the state or territory, but it is typically around $25. In some cases, there may be an additional fee for expedited service. You must pay these fees when you submit your request form or application. The fees go into processing the request and printing the new certificate.
4. Do you need expedited services?
Expedited fees are available for those who need their certificate urgently and are willing to pay a little extra. The fees are typically higher, but the turnaround time is usually much shorter. The average cost is around $60, but it can vary depending on the state or territory. In most cases, you can expect to receive your new birth certificate within a few days. Rush services are used when time is of the essence, such as when applying for a passport.
5. Store your birth certificate properly
Once you receive your new birth certificate, it is important to store it safely. A fireproof and waterproof safe is ideal, but a simple file cabinet will also work. You should keep your birth certificate and other important documents in one central location to easily find them when needed.
Replacing a lost, altered, or destroyed birth certificate is a rather simple procedure, as long as you know where and what to do. The steps above will help you get your new birth certificate quickly and without hassle. To avoid having to go through the process again, store your replacement birth certificate in a secure location after you have received it.
