Article Guide
The Michigan Application Birth form serves as a crucial tool for individuals seeking to correct or change information on a Michigan birth record. This form is administered by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and requires applicants to provide personal details, including their name, address, and contact information. Eligibility to request changes is limited to specific individuals, such as the person named on the record, their parents, or legal guardians, ensuring that only authorized parties can make amendments. The form outlines various types of changes that can be requested, ranging from correcting birth information for individuals under the age of one to addressing court-ordered legal name changes. To process the application, applicants must supply supporting documentation, including photo identification, which is essential for safeguarding against identity theft. The fee for submitting this application is $50, which includes a certified copy of the updated record. Additionally, applicants can opt for rush processing for an expedited fee. Understanding the requirements and procedures outlined in the Michigan Application Birth form is vital for ensuring that any necessary changes to birth records are handled efficiently and legally.
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APPLICATION TO CORRECT OR CHANGE A MICHIGAN BIRTH RECORD
Michigan Department of Health and Human Services
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For additional information: |
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MAIL APPLICATION AND PROPER FEE TO: |
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Vital Records Changes |
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www.Michigan.gov/VitalRecords |
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P.O. Box 30721 |
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Lansing MI 48909 |
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APPLICANT (PERSON REQUESTING CHANGE OR CORRECTION) |
PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY AND LEGIBLY |
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Applicant's |
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Name: |
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Address: |
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(Cannot send to General Delivery) |
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City/State: |
Zip: |
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Daytime Phone Required: ( |
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Notifications by email? Yes No |
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Email Address:
To protect from identity theft, PHOTO IDENTIFICATION must be presented along with this application. (See back for details)
ELIGIBILITY (Please check which category makes you eligible to request this change or correction)
To be eligible to correct or change a birth record, you must be the person named on the record and at least 18 years old, a parent named on the record, or a
copy of the court guardianship documents. Legally licensed representatives must provide information on official letterhead, documenting that he/she represents
the person named on the record and provide their state bar license number, along with client’s identification.
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Person named on the record |
□ Legal guardian of the person named on the record |
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(Must be at least 18 years old or legally emancipated) |
□ Legally licensed representative of the person named on the record |
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Parent named on the record |
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TYPE OF CHANGE OR CORRECTION REQUESTED |
(Please indicate below which type of change or correction you are requesting) |
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□Correct birth record information for a person under the age of 1 (one)
□Correct birth record information for a person age
□Correct birth record information for a person over the age of 6 (six)
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□Name change for parents who have married after the birth (marriage record required)
□Remove a person who is not the biological parent/father (court order required)
There is a separate application if you need to add a parent/father’s name to a birth record when there is no parent/father currently named on the record.
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INFORMATION NEEDED TO LOCATE BIRTH RECORD TO BE CHANGED |
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If any birth information is unknown, please indicate unknown |
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STATE FILE NUMBER (If known) |
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NAME |
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GENDER |
DATE OF BIRTH |
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Middle |
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Last |
□ Male |
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(mm/dd/yyyy) |
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BIRTH |
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□ Female |
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IF THE PERSON ON RECORD IS ADOPTED OR HAS HAD |
□ Adoption |
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A LEGAL NAME CHANGE (OTHER THAN MARRIAGE) |
□ Legal Name |
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PLEASE INDICATE THAT NAME HERE |
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Change |
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Last |
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PLACE OF |
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BIRTH |
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Hospital |
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County |
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PARENT/MOTHER'S |
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PARENT/FATHER'S |
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NAME BEFORE |
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NAME BEFORE |
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FIRST MARRIED |
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Last |
FIRST MARRIED |
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Middle |
Last |
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SEE BACK FOR CURRENT FEES, PHOTO ID |
REQUIREMENTS AND PROCESSING TIMES |
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CHANGES REQUESTED: ITEM IN ERROR |
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INFORMATION AS IT SHOULD APPEAR |
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SIGNATURE(S) REQUIRED TO PROCESS APPLICATION. When two parents are named on the record, both parents’ signatures and current, valid photo identification are required to correct, add or change a child’s name, unless a court order of legal name change is supplied.
Signature of Person |
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Requesting Change |
Date |
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Other Signature |
Date |
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REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION
Changes or corrections to birth records that can be made by this office are limited by law and are subject to very specific supporting documentation. In general, you must include with this application, at least two (2) pieces of dated documentary evidence. To change any part of the name requires two documents dated close to the time of birth. (Exception: Only one document dated five years ago is required to correct the spelling of the first or middle name of the person named on the record). If you are requesting that the name on the record be changed due to a legal name change, only the court order is needed for documentation. If you need more information or have questions, you may call our Changes Unit direct at
PAYMENT - The fee for correcting or changing a Michigan birth record is $50.00 and includes one copy of the record with the changes made. Additional copies of the new record are available for $16.00 each when ordered at the same time. Payment must be by check or money order and made payable to the "State of Michigan."
PROCESSING TIME – Normal processing time for all changes or corrections will be
Application Fee |
$50.00 |
$ 50.00 |
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Fee includes one (1) certified copy of |
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the record |
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________ Additional Certified Copies |
$16.00 Each |
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Rush Fee |
$25.00 |
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TOTAL ENCLOSED |
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$ |
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PENALTIES: Any person who willfully and knowingly makes false application to change a Michigan birth record may be fined and/or imprisoned pursuant to MCL 333.2894(1)(b) and (c).
For Accounting Use Only
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) does not discriminate against any individual or group because of race, religion, age, national origin, color, height, weight, marital status, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or
expression, political beliefs or disability.
Note: Applications sent to the Vital Records post office box with an
overnight delivery are not received in Vital Records for three (3) days.
PHOTO ID REQUIREMENTS FOR CHANGING OR CORRECTING
A MICHIGAN BIRTH RECORD
*Please Send Photocopies – Not Original Documents*
Under Michigan law, birth records are restricted documents. To request a birth record, a current valid, government issued identification is required to establish eligibility (except for an unrestricted birth record that is at least 100 years old). To protect from identity theft, a copy of the applicant’s government issued identification must be presented along with the application and fees.
Tier 1 Documentation that establishes identity by itself.
U.S. or Foreign Passport
U.S. Passport Card
U.S. or U.S. Territories Driver’s License or Identification Card
U.S. Military Identification Card with both picture and signature
Other U.S. or U.S. Territories issued document that meets the following criteria: Document must be unexpired. Document must contain a photograph and at least the following information: name, date of birth, date of expiration, signature, and address.
Tier 2 Documentation must include all documentation in one of the categories below:
Any of the documents in Tier 1 that expired within the past 5 years and any one document from Tier 3 issued within the past year.
Employment identification with photo, accompanied with a pay stub or
Student identification with photo, accompanied by a current report card or other proof of current school enrollment. Both documents must be for the same institution.
Department of Corrections identification card accompanied by probation or discharge papers issued within the past year.
If an inmate is currently incarcerated, a Department of Corrections identification card, accompanied by a verification of incarceration issued within the past year.
Tier 3 Documentation must include at least three alternative documents of different types from the list below, one must have been issued within the past year:
Any of the documents in Tier 1 expired more than 5 years.
Social Security Card (must be signed)
Marriage or Divorce certificate
Your child’s birth certificate
IRS form
Paycheck stub
Bank statement
Voter registration
Motor vehicle registration
Health insurance card
Utility Bill
Doctor/hospital/dentist bill
Religious/community organization documents, baptismal certificate
Military
School records
Letter/benefit statement from a government agency, like SSA or
IRS
Land or rental agreement
Military ID with either a picture or signature.
Other documents that establish identity to a degree equivalent to those listed above.
Form Specifications
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| Governing Law | The Michigan Application Birth form is governed by MCL 333.2871(1) and MCL 333.2891(10). |
| Eligibility Criteria | Applicants must be at least 18 years old and can be the person named on the record, a parent, or a legal guardian. |
| Identification Requirement | Applicants must provide a photo ID to prevent identity theft when submitting the application. |
| Application Fee | The fee for correcting or changing a birth record is $50. This includes one certified copy of the updated record. |
| Processing Time | Normal processing time is 5-6 weeks from the date all required documents are received. |
| Rush Processing | Rush processing is available for an additional fee and takes 2-3 weeks. |
| Types of Changes | Changes can include corrections for age groups, legal name changes, or removing non-biological parents. |
| Required Documentation | At least two pieces of dated documentary evidence are needed to support the requested changes. |
| Additional Copies | Additional certified copies of the record are available for $16 each when ordered at the same time. |
| Penalties for False Application | Filing a false application may result in fines and/or imprisonment as per MCL 333.2894(1)(b) and (c). |
Michigan Application Birth: Usage Guidelines
Completing the Michigan Application Birth form is a straightforward process that requires careful attention to detail. The following steps will guide you through filling out the form accurately. Ensure that you have all necessary documentation ready before you start.
- Provide your personal information: Fill in your name, address (no General Delivery), city, state, zip code, and daytime phone number. Indicate if you wish to receive notifications via email and provide your email address.
- Attach photo identification: Include a photocopy of your valid government-issued photo ID with your application.
- Check your eligibility: Select the appropriate category that qualifies you to request the change or correction.
- Specify the type of change or correction: Indicate the specific change you are requesting from the options provided.
- Provide birth record information: Fill in the state file number (if known), the name, gender, and date of birth of the individual on the record. Include the place of birth.
- List parent names: Enter the names of the mother and father before marriage.
- Detail changes requested: Clearly state the items in error and how they should appear on the corrected record.
- Sign the application: Both parents must sign the application if both are named on the record. Include the date of signing.
- Prepare supporting documentation: Gather at least two pieces of dated evidence to support your request. Ensure that you include any required court documents if applicable.
- Calculate payment: The fee for processing the application is $50.00, which includes one certified copy of the record. Add any additional copies or rush fees if desired.
- Submit your application: Mail the completed application, along with the payment and all required documents, to the address provided on the form.
Once your application is submitted, processing typically takes 5-6 weeks. If you opted for rush processing, expect a turnaround of 2-3 weeks. Be sure to keep a copy of your application for your records.
Your Questions, Answered
What is the Michigan Application Birth form used for?
The Michigan Application Birth form is used to request changes or corrections to a Michigan birth record. Individuals can use this form to correct information for a person under the age of one, ages one to five, or over the age of six. It is also used for court-ordered name changes, changes due to marriage, or to remove a person who is not the biological parent from the record.
Who is eligible to request a change or correction to a birth record?
Eligibility to request changes or corrections is limited to specific individuals. You must be the person named on the record and at least 18 years old, a parent named on the record, or a court-appointed legal guardian. If you are a legal guardian, you must provide a copy of the court guardianship documents. Legally licensed representatives must provide documentation on official letterhead, including their state bar license number and client identification.
What documentation is required to process the application?
To process the application, at least two pieces of dated documentary evidence are generally required. If you are changing any part of a name, the documents must be dated close to the time of birth. For a legal name change, only the court order is necessary. If any information is unknown, it should be indicated as such on the form.
What is the fee for submitting the application?
The fee for correcting or changing a Michigan birth record is $50. This fee includes one certified copy of the record with the changes made. If you require additional copies, they are available for $16 each when ordered at the same time. Payment must be made by check or money order, payable to the "State of Michigan."
How long does it take to process the application?
The normal processing time for changes or corrections is approximately 5-6 weeks from the date all necessary documentation, payment, and photo ID are received. For those who need expedited service, a rush processing option is available for an additional fee, which typically takes 2-3 weeks.
What are the photo ID requirements for this application?
Applicants must provide a current valid government-issued photo ID to establish eligibility. Acceptable forms of ID include a U.S. or foreign passport, driver's license, military ID, or other documents that meet specific criteria. Photocopies of the ID are required; original documents should not be submitted.
What are the penalties for submitting false information on the application?
Submitting false information on the application can lead to serious consequences. Individuals who willfully and knowingly make a false application may face fines and/or imprisonment under Michigan law. It is crucial to provide accurate and truthful information when completing the form.
Common mistakes
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Inaccurate Information: One common mistake is providing incorrect details about the person named on the birth record. This includes errors in the name, date of birth, or place of birth. Ensure all information is accurate and matches official documents.
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Missing Required Signatures: If both parents are listed on the birth record, both signatures are necessary for changes. Omitting one parent's signature can delay the process. Always check for required signatures before submission.
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Insufficient Documentation: Applicants often fail to include the necessary supporting documents. For example, to change a name, two pieces of dated evidence are typically required. Review the documentation requirements thoroughly to avoid issues.
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Ignoring Photo ID Requirements: A common oversight is not providing a current, valid photo ID. This is essential to establish eligibility. Be sure to include a photocopy of the ID with the application.
Documents used along the form
The Michigan Application Birth form is an essential document for requesting changes or corrections to a birth record. However, there are several other forms and documents that may be needed in conjunction with this application. Each of these documents serves a specific purpose and helps ensure that the process runs smoothly and efficiently.
- Photo Identification: A current, valid government-issued ID is required to verify the identity of the applicant. This can include a driver's license, passport, or military ID.
- Legal Guardianship Documents: If the applicant is a legal guardian, they must provide copies of the court documents that establish their guardianship over the individual named on the birth record.
- Marriage Certificate: If a name change for a parent is requested due to marriage after the birth, a copy of the marriage certificate must be submitted.
- Court Order for Name Change: In cases where a legal name change is involved, a certified copy of the court order must accompany the application.
- Adoption Papers: For individuals who have been adopted, adoption papers are necessary to process any changes to the birth record.
- Proof of Relationship: If the applicant is not the individual named on the birth record, they may need to provide documentation proving their relationship to the person named, such as a birth certificate or legal documents.
- Supporting Documents: At least two pieces of dated documentary evidence must be included to support the requested changes. These documents should ideally be dated close to the time of birth.
- Payment: A check or money order for the required fee must be included with the application. The fee covers the processing of the request and includes one certified copy of the updated record.
- Additional Certified Copies Request: If extra copies of the updated birth record are needed, a request for additional certified copies can be included, along with the appropriate fee.
By ensuring that all necessary documents are prepared and submitted with the Michigan Application Birth form, applicants can facilitate a smoother process for correcting or changing birth records. This attention to detail can help avoid delays and ensure that the requested changes are made accurately.
Similar forms
The Michigan Application Birth form serves as an important document for individuals seeking to correct or change their birth records. Several other documents share similarities with this form, particularly in their purpose and the information they require. Below is a list of eight documents that resemble the Michigan Application Birth form, highlighting how they are alike.
- Application for a Social Security Card - Like the Michigan Application Birth form, this application requires personal information, including name, date of birth, and proof of identity. Both forms aim to establish an individual's identity and legal status.
- Passport Application - Similar to the birth form, a passport application necessitates proof of citizenship and identity. Both documents require applicants to provide supporting documentation to verify their claims.
- Driver's License Application - This application also requires personal information and proof of identity. Just as with the birth form, applicants must submit documentation that confirms their eligibility to obtain a driver's license.
- Marriage License Application - This document, like the Michigan Application Birth form, requires identification and personal details. Both forms serve to establish legal status and require supporting documents to validate the information provided.
- Change of Name Application - Similar in purpose, this application is used to legally change a person's name. Both forms require proof of identity and may need court orders or other documentation to support the requested change.
- Voter Registration Form - This form, like the birth application, requires personal information and proof of identity. Both documents are essential for establishing legal status and eligibility within government systems.
- Adoption Petition - An adoption petition shares similarities with the Michigan Application Birth form in that it involves legal changes to a person's identity and requires substantial documentation to support the request.
- Legal Guardianship Application - This application is akin to the birth form as it establishes legal rights and responsibilities. Both require proof of identity and eligibility, often necessitating supporting documents to validate the claims made.
Dos and Don'ts
When filling out the Michigan Application Birth form, it's important to follow specific guidelines to ensure your application is processed smoothly. Here’s a list of things you should and shouldn't do:
- Do print clearly and legibly to avoid any misunderstandings.
- Do include a valid photo identification to protect against identity theft.
- Do check the eligibility requirements to ensure you qualify to request changes.
- Do provide all required supporting documentation as specified in the application.
- Don't send original documents; photocopies are required.
- Don't submit the application without the proper fee, which is $50 for corrections.
- Don't forget to include your contact information, including a daytime phone number.
- Don't use General Delivery as your mailing address; it cannot be processed.
By adhering to these guidelines, you can help ensure that your application is handled efficiently and correctly.
Misconceptions
- Misconception 1: Only the person named on the birth record can request changes.
- Misconception 2: You can change a birth record without any supporting documents.
- Misconception 3: The application fee is refundable.
- Misconception 4: Changes to a birth record can be processed immediately.
While the person named on the record can request changes, parents and legal guardians are also eligible. A court-appointed guardian or a legally licensed representative can submit a request, provided they include the necessary documentation.
Changes to a birth record require specific supporting documentation. Generally, at least two pieces of dated evidence are needed. Exceptions exist, but they are limited and depend on the type of change requested.
The application fee of $50.00 is non-refundable. This fee covers the processing of the application and includes one certified copy of the updated record.
Normal processing time for changes or corrections takes about 5-6 weeks from the date all documentation and fees are received. Rush processing is available for an additional fee, but it still requires time to complete.
Key takeaways
Here are some key takeaways regarding the Michigan Application Birth form:
- Eligibility Requirements: You must be the person named on the record, a parent, or a legal guardian to request a change or correction.
- Photo Identification: A current government-issued photo ID is required to protect against identity theft.
- Types of Changes: You can request corrections for various reasons, including name changes and correcting birth record information.
- Supporting Documentation: At least two pieces of dated documentary evidence are needed for most changes.
- Application Fee: The fee for processing a change is $50, which includes one certified copy of the updated record.
- Processing Time: Expect a normal processing time of 5-6 weeks once all documentation and payment are received.
- Rush Processing: For an additional fee, you can request a faster processing time of 2-3 weeks.
- Signature Requirement: Signatures from both parents are needed for changes involving a child’s name unless a court order is provided.
- Penalties for False Applications: Knowingly submitting false information can lead to fines or imprisonment.