How to Take a Non-Biological Father Off a Birth Certificate
Published June 29, 2023
It is mandatory in some parts of the US that the names of a child’s parents be listed on the child’s birth certificate at the moment of birth. The mother’s name is always included, and if she is married, the husband has deemed the father and is also included on the child’s birth certificate. Additionally, suppose the parents of a child are not married; in that case, they can both sign a Voluntary Acknowledgement of Paternity (abbreviated as VAP), which can also be used to add to the birth certificate the father’s name.
However, there are cases where a man’s name is incorrectly added to a birth certificate; there may be a belief (based on marriage) that the husband is the father but is not the biological father. If your name was mistakenly added to a birth certificate, the following information will show you how to remove your name from a birth certificate.
Reason to Remove Your Name
If a man is not the biological father of a child but is named on the birth certificate as such, he has legal parental rights. Along with the right to petition for custody or contact a child, paternity imposes legal obligations on the father. For example, a man whose name appears on a birth certificate may be required to pay child support or financially support a child through Social Security benefits, health insurance, or veterans’ benefits, among other things. These duties are legally discharged by denying paternity and removing one’s name from a birth certificate.
(Related: How to Put a Child Up for Adoption in the US)
Steps on How to Take Non-Biological Father Off Birth Certificate
Step 1: Gather the necessary document
Get copies of the original Birth Certificate, court orders, or legal documents. Gather any other relevant documents related to the non-biological father’s involvement.
Requirements may be different from state to state. So, you have to research or contact the Department of Vital Records.
Step 2: Research your state’s laws
Research the laws and regulations governing Birth Certificate amendments in your state. Look for information about the removal of a non-biological father’s name. Determine if you need specific requirements.
Step 3: Contact the vital records office
Contact your state’s vital records office and inquire about their procedure. They will provide you with the necessary forms and instructions.
Step 5: Get supporting documentation
Collect any documentation that verifies the non-biological father’s lack of relationship with you. This may include DNA test results, affidavits, or court orders terminating parental rights.
Step 6: Prepare a written statement
Write a detailed statement explaining why you want the non-biological father’s name removed. Be honest and provide a compelling argument supported by evidence you’ve gathered.
Step 7: Submit your application
Submit the completed application and all required documents to the vital records office. Pay the required fees, if applicable.
Step 8: Await processing
The vital records office will review your application and documents. The processing time may vary, so be patient. If they need any additional information or documents, promptly provide them.
Step 9: Receive notification
Once your application is processed, you will receive a notification. If your request is approved, they will provide you with an amended Birth Certificate. This will exclude the non-biological father’s name.
Step 10: Update other records
After receiving the amended Birth Certificate, notify relevant institutions: update schools, government agencies, and healthcare providers about the change. Provide them with the amended Birth Certificate to update their records.
Taking Non-Biological Father Off Birth Certificate
Removing the name of the non-biological father’s name takes some time and effort. But, if you have everything required, it can be easy. Contact the Vital Records Department to ensure you know how to proceed.
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Get inspired and educated by Rei Bayucca, an experienced writer with a knack for thought-provoking articles. With a wealth of industry knowledge, Rei delivers expertly crafted content that will keep you coming back for more.