Replacing a copy of your birth certificate doesn’t need to be a stressful event. Granted, it is an important document that you never want to be without, but in the event of a lost or misplaced birth certificate help is readily available. Ordering a certified copy of your birth certificate is quick and easy if you know where to look.
Locate Your Records
Begin by contacting your state office of vital statistics. They will be able to tell you where your records are located. In many states, records are kept at both the state level and the municipal level. Generally, newer records are located in the municipality in which you were born and older records reside in the office of vital statistics for your state.
Contact the Appropriate Office
Once you have discovered the location of your records contact the office for current replacement fees and to assess what information you will need to provide. Most offer the service for very reasonable fees. Be prepared to pay anywhere from $10 to $15 for a certified copy of your birth record.
Prepare Your Information
Prepare the necessary information to request your birth certificate. You should have your full given name, date and place of birth, parent’s names, residence at the time of your birth, and any nicknames or variations in spelling. It is advisable to type the last name in capitals to avoid mix-ups with surnames and given names.
Write a letter to the office that holds the record of your birth stating your request clearly and concisely. Don’t expect them to search for information in your return address or from your signature. Lay it out for them so there is no room for error. Be sure to include the reason for your request and your relationship to the individual named on the certificate (in this case that it is the record of your own birth).
Some states require your driver’s license number and state of issue. You should be aware of whether or not your state requires this information from your initial phone call. If in doubt, simply include the information to be on the safe side. Always include your signature and date of request.
Enclose the Check
Enclose a check or money order for the amount specified and include a self-addressed stamped envelop for the return. Remember that your request may take a while. Be sure your postage reflects any upcoming postage increases.
Avoid scams that simply want to take advantage of you. Genealogical organizations like Ancestry.com will charge an added fee for a service you can do on your own. Although these organizations can be very helpful when searching for old records or obtaining obscure documents, it is rare that you will need their assistance in obtaining copies of your birth certificate.
Individual State Requirements and Fees
To view individual state requirements and fees, visit Vitalrec.com. Be aware that clicking on the online request form will not take you to the office of vital records. This form takes you to ancestry.com who may assess additional fees and will charge a partial fee, even if they cannot locate your records. Never share personal information with any party that you are not familiar with or who promises to provide services for a fee when you can do it yourself for less.
Obtaining a certified copy of your birth record directly from the office of vital records for your state or municipality is always the safest way to go. By providing them with adequate information in a clear and concise manner, you will receive a certified copy of your birth certificate that you can be sure is legitimate.
