How to Obtain a Certified Birth Certificate From Genesee County, Michigan

A birth certificate is the official documentation of your birth. A certified birth certificate may be necessary to obtain a passport, receive Social Security benefits and apply for a marriage license. Each state keeps birth records for all individuals born in the state and provides a copy of the birth record upon request. The State of Michigan Vital Records Office issues certified birth certificates for all the counties in Michigan.

Instructions

• 1

  Read the eligibility requirements. According to the Michigan Vital Records Office, if the birth certificate requested is less than 100 years old, you must meet certain eligibility requirements to request a certified copy of a birth certificate. Individuals eligible to request a certified copy of a birth certificate include the person named on the face of the birth certificate, a parent or legal guardian named on the record, or a legal representative of the person named on the record. In addition, if the person is deceased, an heir of the person on the record may also request a certified birth certificate.

• 2

  Complete the birth certificate application. You can obtain an application online, at the Michigan Vital Records Office, or you can request an application by mail. The application asks you to provide information about the birth, including the date of birth, the place of birth, the name at birth and the parents' names.

• 3

  Submit a copy of your identification along with your completed application. Acceptable forms of identification include a Michigan driver's license, a valid driver's license from another state, a Michigan identification card, U.S. passport or U.S. military identification.

• 4

  Submit your completed application along with your payment. You can submit a birth record request online, by mail, or in the Michigan Vital Records Office. If you need a certified copy quickly, you can have the certified copy rushed for an additional fee.