Correcting a Name on a New York Birth Certificate: A Step-by-Step Guide

When a child is born in the United States, a birth certificate is made that details the child's name, birth date and the details of the child's parents. If there is an error made to any of the names on the birth certificate, you can request a correction in New York by contacting the Office of Vital Records. There is a processing fee for any correction made and certain documents are required. If the person on the birth certificate wishes to make the change, she must be over the age of 18, Otherwise, a parent must file the correction form.

Instructions

• 1

  Print out the Correction request document and fill it out. This PDF can be printed out form the New York City Department of Health website, or you can request a copy in person at one the nearest office. Fill out the document by giving your personal details and checking the change you would like to make.

• 2

  Make a photocopy of your ID if you are 18 and requesting changes on your own certificate. If you are the parent of the child, you will need to make a photocopy of your own ID.

• 3

  Write a check or bring payment in the amount owed for processing the request. There is a $40 processing fee for most requests and an additional $15 fee per certificate copy.

• 4

  Send off the original birth certificate, not a copy, to the Office of Vital Records in New York. Include the request form, payment and any photocopies of needed documents to complete this request. Send all of this to: NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Corrections Unit, 125 Worth St., Room 144, CN-4, New York, NY 10013