Getting your Important Documents
How to get your birth certificate
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- Identify the State or County:
- Birth certificates are issued by the state or county where you were born. Start by identifying the correct jurisdiction.
- Visit the Vital Records Office:
- Go to the website of the state or county’s vital records office. Most have online, mail, and in-person options for requesting birth certificates.
- Fill Out the Application Form:
- Complete the application form provided by the vital records office. Forms can usually be found online and printed out or filled out electronically.
- Provide Required Documentation:
- Proof of Identity: You will need to provide a valid form of identification, such as:
- Driver’s license
- State ID card
- Passport
- Proof of Relationship: If you are requesting someone else’s birth certificate, you may need to prove your relationship to the person, such as:
- Parent (your name must be on the birth certificate)
- Legal guardian (provide court documents)
- Proof of Identity: You will need to provide a valid form of identification, such as:
- Pay the Fee:
- There is typically a fee to obtain a copy of a birth certificate. Fees vary by state and can be paid by credit card, check, or money order.
- Submit Your Request:
- Online: Many states offer online request options via their official website.
- By Mail: Mail the completed application form, copies of your ID, and payment to the address provided.
- In Person: Visit the vital records office to submit your application and documents in person.
- Wait for Processing:
- Processing times vary by state and method of submission. Online requests are often processed faster than mail-in requests.
Documents Needed
- Completed Application Form: Available from the state or county’s vital records office.
- Valid Identification: One of the following:
- Driver’s license
- State ID card
- Passport
- Proof of Relationship (if applicable):
- Court documents for legal guardianship
- Birth certificates for parents
- Payment: Varies by state (typically between $10 and $30 per copy).
Additional Tips
- Check Requirements: Each state may have specific requirements and forms, so check the vital records website for your state.
- Expedited Services: Some states offer expedited processing for an additional fee.
- Assistance Programs: If you cannot afford the fees, inquire about fee waivers or assistance programs.
Getting Social Security Card
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- Gather Required Documents:
- Proof of Identity: Acceptable documents include:
- U.S. driver’s license
- State-issued non-driver identification card
- U.S. passport
- Proof of Citizenship (if not previously established):
- U.S. birth certificate
- U.S. passport
- Proof of Age (for original card):
- U.S. birth certificate
- U.S. hospital record of birth
- U.S. passport
- Proof of Identity: Acceptable documents include:
- Complete the Application:
- Fill out Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card). This form is available on the Social Security Administration (SSA) website or at your local SSA office.
- Submit Your Application:
- Online: For replacement cards, some U.S. citizens can apply online through their My Social Security account. Check eligibility on the SSA website.
- By Mail: Mail the completed form and original documents or certified copies to your local Social Security office.
- In Person: Visit your local SSA office to submit the application and documents. Use the SSA office locator to find the nearest office.
- Wait for Processing:
- Processing times can vary, but you typically receive your Social Security card within 10 to 14 business days after your application is processed.
Documents Needed
- Proof of Identity: One of the following (must be current):
- U.S. driver’s license
- State-issued non-driver ID card
- U.S. passport
- Proof of Citizenship (if not previously established):
- U.S. birth certificate
- U.S. passport
- Proof of Age (for original card):
- U.S. birth certificate
- U.S. hospital record of birth
- U.S. passport
Special Situations
- For Non-U.S. Citizens: Additional documents will be required, such as immigration status documents (e.g., Form I-551, I-94, or I-766).
- For Children: Parents can apply for a Social Security card for their children using the child’s birth certificate and their own proof of identity.
Additional Tips
- Original or Certified Copies: When applying by mail, only original documents or certified copies are accepted. Photocopies are not accepted.
- Free of Charge: There is no fee for applying for a Social Security card.
- Check Application Status: You can contact the SSA to check the status of your application if it takes longer than expected.
For more detailed information and to download Form SS-5, visit the Social Security Administration website.