What Happens If You Lose Your Birth Certificate?
Losing a birth certificate can be stressful, but you’re not alone. Many people lose or misplace this important document every year. Fortunately, the government provides an option to order a certified copy of your birth certificate if you misplace it.
Here’s everything you need to know about losing your birth certificate and the steps you’ll need to take to get a new one.
What to Do If You’ve Lost Your Birth Certificate
If you’ve lost your birth certificate, you’ll need to reach out to the vital records office in the state you were born to request a replacement. Illinois allows you to complete this process online. Otherwise, you can make the request by mail or at your local currency exchange.
To request a new copy, you will need to provide certified copies of birth records, personal identification, and other important documents to prove your identity, including:
- Driver’s license, State ID, or passport
- Social security card
- Your full name at birth
- Your parents’ full names
- The city/town and date of birth
- Hospital of birth
- Sex at birth
There may be special circumstances if you were born abroad, adopted, or if your parents separated while you were young. This is also true if you’re applying for a birth certificate for someone else. If any of these circumstances apply to you, you may need to fill out a separate application on the vital records website.
Obtaining a Birth Certificate
When you’re ready to submit your application, you must pay any state fees via check, money order, or credit card if paying online. Once that’s settled, you can submit your application and expect a replacement birth certificate in several weeks.
Lost Illinois Birth Certificate FAQ
How long does it take to get a replacement birth certificate in Illinois?
If you request a birth certificate in Illinois, you can expect your replacement to be processed about 12 weeks after the application is received by the Illinois Department of Public Health.
How much is a birth certificate in Illinois?
Ordering a certified copy of a birth certificate in Illinois costs $10 if ordered by mail. It costs $2 for each additional copy. Ordering online may incur additional charges.
What information do I need for requesting a birth certificate in Illinois?
To request a birth certificate copy in Illinois, you’ll need:
- A valid government-issued photo ID
- A completed birth record application or specialized application
- Payment in the form of a check, money order, or credit card
Turn to WSCE For Easy, Fast Birth Certificate Replacement
If you’re looking for an easy and fast way to order a birth certificate copy, turn to the experts at West Suburban Currency Exchanges! Our experts are friendly, helpful, and committed to helping you get the paperwork you need.
Don’t stand in long lines or deal with confusing government websites—instead, head to your nearest West Suburban Currency Exchanges for fast, reliable vital records services. We handle birth certificates, passports, death certificates, and much more!
Visit your nearest currency exchange location today.
