Your birth certificate is one of the most important identification documents you possess, required for everything from obtaining a driver’s license to qualifying for Social Security Disability benefits. Fortunately, replacing a misplaced or damaged birth certificate is a relatively straightforward process, as long as you know where to submit your inquiry. If you’re applying for Social Security Disability or a passport, follow the instructions below to get a copy of your birth certificate.

How to Replace a Lost or Damaged Birth Certificate

1. If You Were Born in the U.S.

For those born on U.S. soil, replacing your birth certificate is fairly simple. Simply contact the Vital Records Office in the county where you born, and ask about their procedures and fees, which vary from one office to the next.

2. If You Were Born Outside of the U.S.

Instead of a birth certificate, children born to American citizens on foreign soil are issued a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA). Copies of lost CRBAs can be obtained from the State Department, which requires a notarized letter containing the child’s identifying information and copies of your state-issued ID, military ID, or passport.

3. If You Were Born Abroad & Adopted by a U.S. Family

For foreign-born children adopted in the U.S., obtaining a copy of your original birth certificate can be more challenging. Each country has different processes for documenting the birth of children, so you should start by contacting your nearest consulate or embassy, who will advise you on the next steps.
 

Collecting the documentation and evidence required to apply for Social Security Disability can be a long and complicated process. The Woodlawn Law Offices has served the O’Fallon, MO, community for over 25 years, and has the proven experience to guide you through the application process and eliminate uncertainty. Visit their website for a comprehensive look at their legal services, get more tips on Facebook, or call (636) 240-6667 to arrange a consultation with an accomplished Social Security Disability attorney today.