Getting a Birth Certificate for Your Baby
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A process new parents find opaque is acquiring a birth certificate for their little one. Here’s a simple guide to navigate you through acquiring one of the most important documents a baby could have.
What is a birth certificate?
A birth certificate is exactly what it sounds like – a document proving that a person was born in the United States. It can be essential to have one for many different things: applying for a passport, enrolling in school, enlisting in the military, or claiming pensions.
How do I get one?
If you’re giving birth at a hospital, a nurse will provide you with the form application for one. Usually, if you’re giving birth at home or in a birthing center, a midwife will also have these forms.
What do I need to include?
When you fill out the form, you will need to provide information like Social Security numbers, full name, maiden name, and proof of identification.
For your baby, you will have to include information about the time and place of the birth. Additionally, you will need some information about ethnicity and demographics.
How long does it take for you to receive your birth certificate?
On average, it should take a couple of weeks. However, exactly when it will be sent through can be hard to tell, and may be based on where you live.
Birth certificates and their rules vary with each state, and since there is no standardized birth certificate template, the time it can take for your birth certificate to be sent to you can vary.
Can I make changes to my birth certificate after I submit it?
Yes. State laws vary, but usually, you can correct something by calling your state vital records office. If you don’t like your baby’s name, you can change it within the first six months of filing no questions asked.
How can I request a copy of my baby’s birth certificate?
You can make requests electronically. Or, you can go to USA.gov to find your local issuing office. A replacement will then be sent to you through the mail.
Source:
Steele, Lauren. “Everything New Parents Need To Know About Birth Certificates.” 23 April, 2018. https://www.fatherly.com/parenting/birth-certificates-questions-new-parents
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information provided does not constitute medical advice and should not take the place of consulting a physician.