Content Overview
When navigating the process of adoption in Texas, understanding the Texas Adoption Papers form is crucial for all involved parties. This form is essential for amending a birth certificate following an adoption, ensuring that the child’s new identity is officially recognized. Various individuals can apply for corrections, including the person named on the birth certificate, adoptive parents, or their legal representatives. Completing the form requires careful attention to detail, as each section must be filled out accurately and signed. Important information includes the child’s original details, the adoptive parents' information, and necessary certifications from the court. Applicants must also provide valid photo identification and pay applicable fees, which vary depending on the services requested. The application process can take several weeks, but expedited options are available for those needing quicker results. A thorough understanding of this form helps streamline the adoption process, ensuring that all legal requirements are met efficiently.
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Page 1 of 4 VS-160 (Rev. 3/22)
Amending a Birth Certificate
based on Adoption
Who Can Apply for a Correction?
• The person named on the birth certificate, if at least 18 years of age.
• Adoptive Parent(s) of the person named on the birth certificate.
• Attorney representing the adoptive parent(s) of the person named on the birth certificate.
• District clerks (district clerks do not need to complete sections 6 and 7).
How Do I Make a Correction?
☐ Complete all sections and sign the Certificate of Adoption. See pages 3 and 4.
☐ Section 5 on page 3 MUST be completed and certified by the clerk of the court.
☐ The applicant must ATTACH A COPY OF THEIR VALID PHOTO ID. If the District clerk is
submitting the application, the clerk needs to provide as a form of ID a cover letter on office letterhead
referencing the adoptee(s).
☐ The application must be original. Photocopies, alterations, strike-through, or write overs will not be
accepted.
☐ Submit a certified copy (with original certification) of the final decree of adoption if section 5 is not
complete or certified.
☐ Submit the appropriate fees. See fee schedule below.
For Frequently Asked Questions, go to: https://www.dshs.texas.gov/vs/faq/#adopt
Where Do I Mail the Application?
Regular Mailing Instructions - Estimated processing time is 6-8 weeks.
See https://www.dshs.texas.gov/vs/processing/ for current times.
Please submit your application, supporting documents (if required) and fees to:
DSHS – Vital Statistics Section, P.O. Box 12040, Austin, TX 78711-2040.
Expedited Service Mailing Instructions - Estimated processing time is 20-25 business days.
The order and $5.00 processing fee must be sent to the Vital Statistics Section via an overnight mail
service such as: FedEx, Lone Star, or UPS.
Please submit your application, supporting documents (if required) and fees to:
DSHS-Vital Statistics Section, MC 2096, 1100 W. 49
th
Street, Austin, TX 78756.
•
FAILURE TO PROVIDE INFORMATION REQUESTED ON THIS FORM, MAY RESULT IN SIGNIFICANT
PROCESSING DELAYS AND/OR DENIAL OF YOUR APPLICATION.
•
Fees: How much must I submit?
Fee Schedule
Fee ($)
Qty (#)
Total ($)
Filing Fees:
O
Correction to Birth Certificate based on adoption
$25.00
=
$25.00
Birth Certificate(s):
O
Certified Corrected Birth Certificate ($22.00 per copy)
$22.00
X
=
Central Adoption Registry Fee:
O
Central Adoption Registry Fee (per adoption decree granted in Texas)
$15.00
=
$15.00
For urgent requests, orders may be EXPEDITED by paying the below expedited processing fee AND
sending the order through an overnight mail service, such as: FEDEX, LoneStar, or UPS to: DSHS-Vital
Statistics Section, MC 2096, 1100 W. 49
th
Street, Austin, TX 78756.
O
Expedited processing Fee
$5.00
=
All orders are returned free of charge by USPS regular mail. For expedited return mail service, select
one of the overnight return shipping methods below.
O
Expedite Overnight Mail (shipping within USA)
$12.50
=
O
USPS Express Overnight Mail (shipping overnight to PO Box ONLY)
$22.95
=
Grand Total
Fees may be combined in one check or money order made payable to DSHS – Vital Statistics
For the status of your request, contact VSS by telephone at 1-888-963-7111 or online at: https://www.dshs.texas.gov/orderstatus/.
Page 2 of 4 VS-160 (Rev. 3/22)
INSTRUCTIONS:
Once the application is approved, a new birth record will be filed with the adoption information.
Section 1: Birth Certificate Information
• The information completed in this section should show the child’s information prior to this adoption. This
is required to locate the birth certificate our office will be amending.
• The child’s name, date of birth, sex, and place of birth are required.
• Parents’ names are required for Texas-born adoptions; parents’ names are not required for foreign-born
adoptions.
Section 2: Information for New Birth Certificate
• This section must show the adoptive parents information. Do not list married name as maiden name.
• If this is a step-parent adoption, the biological parent’s information should also be included in this
section. A step-parent adoption is NOT a single parent adoption.
• All items in this section are required. Incomplete applications will not be processed.
Section 3: Parent’s Signature
• An adoptive parent’s signature is required. Incomplete applications will not be processed.
Section 4: Attorney/Placing Agency Information
• Include the name, address and telephone number of the attorney of record.
• If applicable, include the child placing agency or managing conservator.
Section 5: Certification of the Court
• This section must be completed by the clerk of the court granting the adoption, including the new
name of the child.
• If this section is not certified by the clerk of the court granting the adoption, then the applicant may
complete this section and must submit a certified copy (with the original certification) of the final
decree of adoption. The adoption decree must properly identify the birth record to be amended –
including the child’s original name, date of birth and adoptive name. For foreign-born adoptions, the
adoption decree must also include the country of birth.
Please note: All documents, both certified and photocopied, submitted will be retained by our
office and placed in a sealed file. A court order is required to unseal a file. Parents should keep copies
of certified documents for their records and future use before sending them.
Section 6: What is Your Name? (Applicant’s Information)
• This section must be completed with the applicant’s contact information and relationship to the person
named on the birth certificate. District clerks do not need to complete this section.
• This section must include to whom our office will mail the newly filed birth certificate.
• A copy of the applicant’s valid photo ID must be included with the application.
Section 7: Would the applicant like to order a certified copy of the new birth record?
• The information completed in this section is used by our office to determine if a certified copy of the
newly filed birth certificate reflecting the adoptive information is being ordered and the number of
certified copies being ordered. District clerks do not need to complete this section.
• If a birth certificate is not ordered, this section does not need to be signed in the presence of a notary
public, county clerk, or other person authorized to administer oaths.
• If a birth certificate is ordered, this section must be signed by the applicant in section 6: one of the
adoptive parents, the adult adoptee, or attorney in the presence of a notary public, county clerk, or
other person authorized to administer oaths. The application must include a photocopy of the valid
photo ID for the person signing.
• The notary public’s signature, seal or stamp, and commission expiration date must be shown in this
section.
Page 3 of 4 VS-160 (Rev. 3/22)
Certificate of Adoption
THIS IS A PERMANENT RECORD. Type or Print (blue or black ink ONLY). Remittance No.___________
Section 1: Birth Certificate Information
Enter information as it appears on the current birth certificate (before this adoption).
Birth Certificate Number, if known: 142 - -
Child’s First Name:
Middle Name:
Last Name:
Date of Birth (MM/DD/YYYY):
Sex:
Time of Birth:
Name of Hospital/Facility:
City:
County:
State or Foreign Country:
Full Maiden Name (First, Middle, Last) of Parent 1:
Full Maiden Name (First, Middle, Last) of Parent 2:
Section 2: Information for New Birth Certificate
All information below MUST be provided or a new birth certificate cannot be completed.
Is this a Single Parent Adoption? ☐ Yes ☐ No
Parent 1
Adoptive
Biological
Title to Appear on Birth Record (check one): Mother Father Parent
First Name:
Middle Name:
Current Last Name:
Maiden Last Name(s) before marriage:
Date of Birth (MM/DD/YYYY):
Place of Birth
(State or Foreign Country):
Parent 2
Adoptive
Biological
Title to Appear on Birth Record (check one): Mother Father Parent
First Name:
Middle Name:
Current Last Name:
Maiden Last Name(s) before marriage:
Date of Birth (MM/DD/YYYY):
Place of Birth
(State or Foreign Country):
Parent(s) Address
at the time of
child’s birth:
Street Address City County State Zip
Inside City Limits:
Yes No
Parent(s) Current
Address:
Street Address City County State Zip
Parent(s) Email Address:
Parent(s) Phone No.:
( ) -
Section 3: Parent’s Signature
Parent’s Signature (REQUIRED):
Section 4: Attorney/Placing Agency Information
Attorney’s
Information:
Name of Attorney of Record:
Attorney’s Email Address:
Mailing Address (Street address, City, State, Zip):
Phone No.:
( ) -
Placing
Agency or
Managing
Conservator:
Name of Child Placing Agency or Managing Conservator:
Mailing Address (Street address, City, State, Zip):
Phone No.:
( ) -
Section 5: Certification of the Court
Please complete the child’s name as set forth in the Decree of Adoption.
Name of the child as set forth in the Adoption Decree:
First
Middle
Last
I hereby certify that the above information is correct as stated in the Decree of Adoption which was granted on _______________
day of ________________________,___________ in the _________________ Court of ________________ County, Texas in
Cause #__________________________.
________________________________________________
District Clerk’s Signature
[Stamp or Seal]
WARNING: The Penalty for knowingly making a false statement in this form can be 2-10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. (Texas Health and Safety
Code, Chapter 195).
IMPORTANT: Photocopies, alterations, strike-through, or write
overs in Section 1 through 7 will not be accepted. Please use a new
application if you make a mistake. Copies of E-filed Certificates of
Adoption will be accepted.
Page 4 of 4 VS-160 (Rev. 3/22)
Section 6: What is Your Name? (Applicant’s Information)
Name (First, Middle, Last):
Address (Mailing Address, City, State, Zip):
Email Address:
Telephone # (8am-5pm): ( ) -
Your relationship to Person named on the birth certificate: ☐ Adoptive Parent ☐ Self ☐ Attorney representing Adoptive Parent(s)
>>>>>>>A COPY OF THE APPLICANT’S VALID PHOTO ID MUST BE ATTACHED<<<<<<<
Section 7: Would the applicant like to order a certified copy of the new birth record?
Check one:
No, I would not like a certified copy of the new birth record.
Yes, I would like a certified copy of the new birth record. Number ordered: ________
If Yes, verify the fees and quantity ordered in the fee box on Page 1 and mailing address in
Section 6. Sign below in the presence of a notary public and ATTACH a copy of your valid Photo
ID. Applications without acceptable valid ID attached will not be processed. Cross-outs or white-outs will
VOID your application.
WARNING: The Penalty for knowingly making a false statement in this form can be 2-10 years in prison
and a fine of up to $10,000. (Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 195).
Adoptive Parent, Adult Adoptee, or Attorney >>>>>ATTACH A COPY OF YOUR VALID PHOTO ID<<<<<
Printed Name:
Signature:
Address:
City:
State:
Zip:
Notary Public, County Clerk, or other person authorized to administer oaths
Sworn to and subscribed before me, this ______ day of ____________ 20______.
[Stamp or Seal]
Signature:
Printed name and title:
Form Specifications
| Fact Name | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility to Apply | Individuals who can apply for a correction to a birth certificate based on adoption include the person named on the birth certificate (if at least 18 years old), adoptive parents, their attorney, or district clerks. |
| Required Documents | The application must include a completed Certificate of Adoption, a certified copy of the final decree of adoption (if necessary), and a valid photo ID. Incomplete applications will not be processed. |
| Submission Process | Applications can be mailed to the DSHS – Vital Statistics Section. Regular processing takes approximately 6-8 weeks, while expedited service takes 20-25 business days. |
| Governing Law | The Texas Adoption Papers form is governed by the Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 195, which outlines penalties for false statements made in the application. |
Texas Adoption Papers: Usage Guidelines
Completing the Texas Adoption Papers form is a crucial step in finalizing the adoption process. After filling out the form correctly, you will need to submit it along with supporting documents and fees. The processing time can vary, so it’s essential to ensure all information is accurate to avoid delays.
- Obtain the Texas Adoption Papers form and review the instructions carefully.
- Fill out Section 1 with the child’s birth certificate information, including the child’s name, date of birth, sex, and place of birth.
- Complete Section 2 with the adoptive parents' information. If applicable, include the biological parent's information for step-parent adoptions.
- Sign Section 3 as an adoptive parent. Ensure that this signature is included, as incomplete applications will not be processed.
- In Section 4, provide the attorney’s information if applicable, including their name, address, and phone number.
- Have the clerk of the court complete Section 5, certifying the adoption and including the new name of the child. If this section is not certified, attach a certified copy of the final decree of adoption.
- Fill out Section 6 with your contact information and relationship to the person named on the birth certificate. Attach a copy of your valid photo ID.
- In Section 7, indicate whether you would like to order a certified copy of the new birth record. If yes, specify the number of copies and sign in the presence of a notary public.
- Calculate the total fees based on the fee schedule provided. Include a check or money order made payable to DSHS – Vital Statistics.
- Mail the completed application, supporting documents, and fees to the appropriate address based on your chosen processing speed.
Your Questions, Answered
1. Who is eligible to apply for a correction to a birth certificate based on adoption?
Individuals who can apply include the person named on the birth certificate, provided they are at least 18 years old. Additionally, adoptive parents or their attorney may submit the application. District clerks can also apply but are not required to complete certain sections of the form.
2. What steps must I follow to make a correction to the birth certificate?
To make a correction, you must complete all sections of the Certificate of Adoption and sign it. Section 5 must be certified by the clerk of the court. A valid photo ID must be attached. The application must be original; photocopies or alterations will not be accepted. If Section 5 is not certified, include a certified copy of the final decree of adoption. Finally, submit the appropriate fees.
3. Where should I mail my application for a corrected birth certificate?
For regular processing, mail your application and supporting documents to DSHS – Vital Statistics Section, P.O. Box 12040, Austin, TX 78711-2040. For expedited service, send your application via overnight mail to DSHS-Vital Statistics Section, MC 2096, 1100 W. 49th Street, Austin, TX 78756. Keep in mind that regular processing takes about 6-8 weeks, while expedited service takes 20-25 business days.
4. What are the fees associated with filing for a corrected birth certificate?
The filing fee for a correction based on adoption is $25. If you wish to obtain a certified corrected birth certificate, it costs $22 per copy. There is also a $15 fee for the Central Adoption Registry. If you need expedited processing, an additional $5 fee applies. All fees can be combined in one payment made out to DSHS – Vital Statistics.
5. What information is required in Section 1 of the application?
This section requires the child's information before the adoption, including the child's name, date of birth, sex, and place of birth. For Texas-born adoptions, the names of the biological parents are also required. This information is crucial for locating the original birth certificate.
6. What if I make a mistake on the application?
If you make a mistake, do not attempt to correct it with cross-outs or white-outs. Instead, complete a new application. Any alterations will result in the application being voided, and it will not be processed.
7. How do I know if my application has been processed?
To check the status of your request, you can contact the Vital Statistics Section by telephone at 1-888-963-7111 or visit their website for updates. It's important to keep track of your application, especially if you have submitted it via mail.
8. What should I do if I need a certified copy of the new birth record?
If you want a certified copy of the new birth record, you must indicate this in Section 7 of the application. This section must be signed in the presence of a notary public, and a photocopy of your valid photo ID must be included. Ensure that you verify the fees and quantity ordered before submitting the application.
Common mistakes
-
Incomplete Sections: Failing to complete all required sections of the form can lead to application delays. Each section must be filled out accurately, as incomplete applications will not be processed.
-
Missing Signatures: Not providing the necessary signatures can invalidate the application. An adoptive parent's signature is mandatory, and any required signatures must be present to avoid rejection.
-
Incorrect Identification: Submitting an application without a valid photo ID can cause significant delays. The applicant must attach a copy of their ID, and if a district clerk is submitting the application, a cover letter on official letterhead is required.
-
Failure to Submit Original Documents: Photocopies, alterations, or any form of write-overs are unacceptable. The application must be original, and all documents must be submitted as specified to ensure processing.
Documents used along the form
When navigating the adoption process in Texas, several additional forms and documents may be required alongside the Texas Adoption Papers form. Each of these documents serves a specific purpose and is essential for ensuring a smooth adoption experience.
- Final Decree of Adoption: This legal document finalizes the adoption process. It outlines the terms of the adoption and must be submitted to amend the child's birth certificate.
- Certificate of Adoption: This form is issued by the court and serves as proof of the adoption. It includes details about the adoptive parents and the child, and it must be signed by the court clerk.
- Application for Birth Certificate Correction: This application is necessary to request changes to the child's birth certificate after adoption. It must include specific information about the child and the adoptive parents.
- Photo ID: A valid photo identification must accompany the application. This is required for the applicant to verify their identity and relationship to the child.
- Central Adoption Registry Fee Form: This form is used to pay the fee associated with registering the adoption in the Central Adoption Registry. It is essential for ensuring that the adoption is officially recorded.
Completing and submitting these documents accurately will help avoid delays in the adoption process. Ensure that all required forms are filled out completely and submitted in a timely manner.
Similar forms
The Texas Adoption Papers form serves a specific purpose in the adoption process, but several other documents share similar characteristics. Here’s a look at seven documents that are comparable to the Texas Adoption Papers form, highlighting their similarities.
- Birth Certificate Amendment Request: Like the Texas Adoption Papers, this form is used to request changes to a birth certificate. Both require specific information about the individual and supporting documentation to process the request.
- Final Decree of Adoption: This document officially finalizes an adoption. It contains crucial information such as the names of the adoptive parents and the child, much like the details required in the Texas Adoption Papers.
- Certificate of Live Birth: This document records the birth of a child. Similar to the Texas Adoption Papers, it requires accurate personal information and is essential for legal identification and documentation.
- Custody Modification Petition: When custody arrangements change, this form is filed in court. Both this petition and the Texas Adoption Papers require court approval and detailed information about the parties involved.
- Parental Rights Termination Form: This form is used to legally terminate parental rights. Similar to the Texas Adoption Papers, it involves legal proceedings and necessitates a clear understanding of the relationships and responsibilities involved.
- Child Support Modification Request: This document is submitted to adjust child support obligations. Like the Texas Adoption Papers, it requires the submission of specific information and often necessitates court involvement.
- Application for a Social Security Number: This application is essential for obtaining a Social Security number for a child. Both forms require personal identification and verification of relationships, ensuring accurate records are maintained.
Each of these documents plays a vital role in legal processes related to family law, similar to the Texas Adoption Papers. Understanding their similarities can help clarify the importance of accurate and complete documentation in these situations.
Dos and Don'ts
When filling out the Texas Adoption Papers form, follow these guidelines to ensure a smooth process:
- Complete all sections of the form thoroughly.
- Sign the Certificate of Adoption where required.
- Attach a copy of your valid photo ID.
- Ensure the application is original; do not submit photocopies or altered documents.
- Include a certified copy of the final decree of adoption if necessary.
- Submit the appropriate fees as outlined in the fee schedule.
- Mail the application to the correct address based on your chosen processing speed.
- Keep copies of all documents for your records before sending them.
- Double-check that all required signatures and certifications are included.
Avoid these common mistakes:
- Do not leave any sections incomplete; this will delay processing.
- Avoid using cross-outs or white-outs on the form.
- Do not submit the application without a valid photo ID attached.
- Do not use a married name as a maiden name in the new birth certificate section.
- Do not forget to include the correct mailing address for the new birth certificate.
- Do not send photocopies of documents unless specified.
- Do not submit applications with alterations, strike-throughs, or write-overs.
- Do not neglect to verify the fees and quantities before submitting.
- Do not assume the application will be processed without all required information.
Misconceptions
Here are ten misconceptions about the Texas Adoption Papers form, along with explanations to clarify each one:
- Only biological parents can amend a birth certificate. This is incorrect. Adoptive parents, the individual named on the birth certificate, or their attorney can apply for amendments.
- Photocopies of documents are acceptable. The application must be original. Photocopies or any alterations will not be accepted.
- All sections of the form can be completed by the applicant. Some sections must be completed by the court clerk, especially Section 5, which requires certification.
- There is no need for a valid photo ID. A valid photo ID is required to be attached to the application, regardless of who is submitting it.
- Fees are optional. Fees must be submitted with the application. Failure to include them may result in delays or denial.
- All applications are processed immediately. The estimated processing time can take 6-8 weeks for regular applications and 20-25 business days for expedited requests.
- Incomplete applications can still be processed. Incomplete applications will not be processed, so all sections must be filled out correctly.
- Adoption information is not permanent. Once the application is approved, the new birth record is a permanent record reflecting the adoption information.
- Adoptive parents can use any name on the birth certificate. The names listed must follow specific guidelines, such as not listing a married name as a maiden name.
- There is no requirement for a notary public. If the applicant orders a certified copy, the signature must be notarized.
Key takeaways
When navigating the Texas Adoption Papers form, there are several important points to keep in mind. Understanding these can help ensure a smoother process.
- Eligibility to Apply: The application can be submitted by the person named on the birth certificate if they are at least 18 years old, the adoptive parents, their attorney, or district clerks.
- Completeness is Key: Every section of the form must be filled out completely. Missing information can lead to delays or denial of the application.
- Original Documents Required: Only original applications will be accepted. Photocopies, alterations, or any form of correction on the application will not be processed.
- Fees Must Be Submitted: Ensure that you include the appropriate fees as outlined in the fee schedule. This includes filing fees and costs for certified copies of the new birth certificate.
- Mailing Instructions: Be aware of the mailing address for your application. Regular submissions can take 6-8 weeks, while expedited services are available for quicker processing.
By paying attention to these key points, you can help facilitate the adoption process in Texas and ensure that all necessary steps are followed correctly.