How to Obtain a Birth Certificate in Pennsylvania
Are you looking for ways to replace your Pennsylvania birth certificate? Whether you misplaced it or just need some additional copies to send off to obtain your marriage license or passport. No matter what your reasoning is, the process to obtain a birth certificate is pretty simple.
Using the Traditional Method
In order to be able to apply for your birth certificate in the state of Pennsylvania, you must be the actual person named on the certificate or a spouse, legal representative, power of attorney, or another family member such as brother, sister, or grandparents.
The original, old-fashioned way to obtain a birth certificate in Pennsylvania means visiting the website for the Pennsylvania Department of Health. Once you are on the website, you will be able to simply fill out the form for the birth certificate application. Make sure that you do not forget to add a check or money order made out to “Vital Records,” for $20 along with your application. They do not accept cash. You will also need to send a copy of your ID such as your state ID or driver’s license along with the application. Once you have gotten all of the information together, you will need to mail it out to the department’s mailing address.
Keep in mind that a raised seal will be placed in the lower right-hand corner of all birth certificates that are issued since 1975.
Using the Current Method
If you are looking for a much simpler way to apply for a copy of your birth certificate you can also go through third party companies. You will be able to count on quicker processing times. The application process will only involve a few minutes of your time without any paperwork. Third-party companies have ways to send copies via your email instead of through the mail. If you are looking for a faster and more convenient way of ordering a copy of your birth certificate, consider going through a third party company.
When going through third party companies to obtain a copy of your birth certificate, make sure that you have all of the required information. The same requirements apply as the traditional method. You will still need to send a copy of your photo ID along with your fee and application. Most third-party companies also give you the option to pay an additional fee for immediate or expedited processing.
Whichever way you choose to obtain your Pennsylvania birth certificate, just remember to be prepared. You have a few options to choose from. You can choose to either have it mailed or emailed to you depending on the route you choose to go. Certified copies of birth certificates are needed to apply for certain government jobs, marriage licenses, and passports so they are deemed necessary.
