Using a Birth Certificate as a Legal Document

When it suddenly becomes necessary to produce a legal birth certificate, do you know where your documentation is and what makes it an official legal document? If not, it might be time to order a birth certificate for Texas or your state of birth.

The copy that your parents are keeping in their dresser drawer is likely not the certified copy you will need for legal purposes. That version is more of a keepsake commemorating your birth. The legal copy of your birth certificate is somewhere else entirely.

What Makes a Birth Certificate a Legal Document?

Your original birth certificate is kept by the designated vital records office for your state of birth unless you were born overseas. It was signed and witnessed, then cataloged into the official government records. These factors make it a legal document.

However, you will likely never see the original certificate, and certainly can’t take it out to prove your identity. The responsible government agency will issue you a certified copy on request for a fee. The certified copy is your legal document to use.

What Is a Certified Copy of a Birth Certificate?

Once you have made a request and fulfilled the birth certificate requirements, either directly to the office or through an online expediting service, you will receive your certified copy by mail. Certified means that the issuing agency guarantees the validity of the copy.

What Does a Certified Birth Certificate Look Like?

You can tell a certified copy from an unofficial photocopy by these signs:

• It has a registrar’s seal for the state or country issuing the copy.
  
• The seal is embossed or pressed into the paper, making the lettering raised.
• The seal may be multicolored or holographic in newer versions.
• It will be notarized, meaning signed and dated by the registrar.

What Is a Birth Certificate Used For?

Do you need a birth certificate to get married? Having a certified copy in your possession will help prevent a scramble at the last minute.

These are just some of the things you need a birth certificate for:

• Getting a driver’s license
• Registering for school
• Joining the military
• Getting married
• Child support birth certificate
• Traveling (getting a passport)
• Signing up for a sports team
• Getting a social security card
• Claiming pension or insurance benefits
  
• Any situation where you need to establish age or identity
  

Keeping a Copy Always Pays Off

With so many reasons you would need your birth certificate, you may want to keep a couple of copies on file in different places. You can work directly with the government office or agency involved to obtain a certified copy, or you can order a birth certificate online.

Rather than waiting until the need arises, getting a birth certificate replacement now will help you be prepared for those important life events where establishing your identity is required. You can be proactive and get a certified birth certificate today with our easy to use online service!

PLEASE NOTE: At this time, FastBirthCertificates.com does not alter or amend any birth certificates. This blog is for informational purposes only.