How to Correct a Birth Certificate in New York City
- 1). Confirm that you are eligible to make a change on the birth certificate in question. The NYC Office of Vital Records requires that you are at least 18 years old and named on the certificate or that you are the parent of the individual named on the certificate.
- 2). Obtain a correction packet that includes the application form needed to make a change on the certificate and information about the entire process. See the Resources to obtain a packet online. If you cannot access the packet online, you can request one to be mailed to you by calling 311, or if you live outside of New York City, call 212-639-9675.
- 3). Gather the original documentation and identification needed to make the changes. Certain changes will require certain documents. See the Resources for a list of supporting documents and acceptable identification. Make photocopies of all of the original documents and photo identification.
- 4). Complete the application form in blue or black ink only.
- 5). Submit the application form, original and photocopies of documentation, photocopy of photo identification, the $40 processing fee (if applicable) and the $15 new certificate fee (if desired) to the Office of Vital Records. See the Resources to find out if you will need to pay any fees.
Corrections may be requested via mail or in-person. If you wish to mail your request, remember to include a self-addressed, stamped envelope so your documents can be returned to you. Mail all application materials and fees to
NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene
Office of Vital Records, Corrections Unit
125 Worth Street, CN4, Room 144
New York, NY 10013
If you prefer to submit your corrections in-person, bring all the application materials and fees to 125 Worth Street, Room 144. Use the Lafayette Street or Center Street entrances since the Worth Street entrance is for employees only.