Fill in Your Kentucky Birth Certificate Form

Fill in Your Kentucky Birth Certificate Form

The Kentucky Birth Certificate form, referenced officially as VS-37 Rev 1.3.2020, is a vital document for obtaining a certified copy of a birth certificate for individuals born in Kentucky since 1911. It requires filling out details related to the birth and the person requesting the certificate, including personal information, birth details, and relationship to the individual on the certificate. A non-refundable fee is associated with the application, ensuring secure handling and processing of each request. To obtain your certified copy, click the button below to fill out the form.

Open Kentucky Birth Certificate Editor Here

Obtaining a certified copy of a birth certificate in Kentucky is a process guided by specific steps and requirements, as outlined in the Kentucky Birth Certificate form, official version VS-37 Rev 1.3.2020. This form serves as an application for individuals seeking certified copies of birth records that have been filed in Kentucky since 1911. The form requires detailed information about the person whose birth certificate is being requested, including their full name at birth, date of birth, place of birth within Kentucky, and the parents' names. Adopted individuals must provide their original name if it is known. Additionally, the applicant must disclose their relationship to the person on the birth certificate, their contact information, and signature to validate the request. A non-refundable fee of $10.00 is charged for each certified copy, with the option to order additional copies at the same price. Payment can be made through various methods such as mail, internet, telephone, or using a drop box located at the Office of Vital Statistics in Frankfort, Kentucky. Each ordering method involves additional charges, including processing and shipment fees for faster delivery options. This comprehensive structure ensures that requests are accurately processed and securely delivered to individuals who are entitled to receive them.

Kentucky Birth Certificate Example

VS-37 Rev 3.30.2023

 

 

COMMONWEALTH OF KENTUCKY

BIRTH

STATE REGISTRAR OF VITAL STATISTICS

APPLICATION FOR A CERTIFIED COPY OF BIRTH CERTIFICATE

 

Certificates of Birth that occurred in Kentucky since 1911 are on file in this office

 

Please Print or Type Sections 1 through 13.

PRINT

RESET

BIRTH CERTIFICATE INFORMATION

1.

Full Name at Birth

 

 

First

Middle

 

 

 

 

Last

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.

Date of Birth

 

 

Month

 

 

Day

 

Year

Sex

 

Age Last Birthday

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.

Place of Birth

 

Kentucky City or Town

 

Kentucky County

 

 

Name of Hospital

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4. Mother’s Maiden

 

 

First

 

Middle

 

 

 

Last

 

Name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5.

Father’s Name

 

 

First

 

Middle

 

 

 

Last

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6.

If this child has been adopted, please give

 

First

 

 

 

Last

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

original name if known

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7.

What is your relationship to the person whose certificate is being

 

 

Relationship

 

 

 

 

 

 

requested?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8.

Requestor’s Printed Name

 

 

 

First

 

 

 

Last

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

9.

Requestor’s Phone Number

 

 

 

 

Phone Number With Area Code

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10. Requestor’s Mailing Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

Street Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11. Requestor’s City, State, Zip

 

 

 

 

 

City, State, Zip

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12. Requestor’s Signature

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DO NOT WRITE IN THIS SPACE

Volume

Certificate

Year

Date

Searched by

13. FEES – NON REFUNDABLE

A fee is to be paid for certified copies or records, or for a search of the files or records when no copy is available. The fee for a certified copy of a birth certificate is $10.00 U.S. Additional copies are $10.00 U.S. each. Make check or money order payable to “Kentucky State Treasurer.” This fee is non refundable.

________ Certified Copies @ $10.00 each

= $

 

How many

 

Total payment

Certificates may also be ordered by the following methods:

In Person: The Office of Vital Statistics is located at 275 East Main Street in Frankfort. Visit our lobby and complete an application for a certified copy of a birth, death, marriage or divorce certificate from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST), Monday through Friday, excluding official state holidays. Orders received after 3:30 p.m. Eastern time will be processed the next business day.

Internet: Certificates may be ordered on the internet using a credit card (Visa, MasterCard, Discover or American Express) or check. An additional charge card fee will apply. This is in addition to the fee for each certified copy requested. Certificates requested via internet at this website: https://www.vitalchek.com/birth-certificates/kentucky/kentucky-office-of-vital-statistics may be returned by overnight courier for an additional shipment fee (if that record is available).

Telephone: Orders may be placed by telephone using a credit card (Visa, MasterCard, Discover or American Express) or check. An additional processing fee will apply. This processing fee is in addition to the fee for each certified copy requested. Certificates requested via telephone may be returned by overnight courier for an additional fee. The telephone number to place your order is (800) 241-8322, choose option 1.

Mail: Orders are accepted by mail, using a check or money order in U.S. dollars drawn on a U.S. bank for payment. It can take up to 30 working days to process your request from the date payment is posted. Mail application and payment to Vital Statistics, 275 East Main Street 1E-A, Frankfort, KY 40621. The Office of Vital Statistics telephone number is (502) 564-4212.

Drop Box: The Office of Vital Statistics installed a drop box at the visitor entrance at 275 E. Main St., Frankfort for applications for certified copies of birth, death, marriage and divorce certificates. Blank applications are provided on the drop box.

Form Data

Fact Detail
Form Version VS-37 Rev 1.3.2020
State Kentucky
Available Records Births since 1911 are on file
Application Requirement Print or Type Sections 1 through 13
Fee for Certified Copy $10.00 U.S.
Payment Method Check or money order payable to “Kentucky State Treasurer”
Alternative Order Methods Internet, Telephone, Mail, Drop Box
Processing Time for Mail Orders Up to 30 working days

How to Fill Out Kentucky Birth Certificate

Obtaining a certified copy of a birth certificate in Kentucky is a straightforward process. It's essential for various reasons, such as applying for a passport, enrolling in school, or claiming inheritance rights. Following the correct steps ensures your request is processed efficiently. Below are the instructions to properly fill out the Kentucky Birth Certificate form (VS-37 Rev 1.3.2020). Remember, the information provided must be accurate and complete to avoid any delays.

  1. Enter the Full Name at Birth including First, Middle, and Last names in the designated spaces.
  2. Fill in the Date of Birth by entering the Month, Day, and Year. Also, specify the Sex and Age at the Last Birthday.
  3. For the Place of Birth, provide the City or Town in Kentucky, County Name, and Name of Hospital where the birth occurred.
  4. Under Mother’s Maiden Name, enter her First, Middle, and Last names as they were at the time of birth.
  5. Input the Father’s Name including First, Middle, and Last names.
  6. If the child has been adopted, enter the original First and Last names if known in the space provided.
  7. State your Relationship to the person whose certificate is being requested.
  8. Print the Requestor’s Name including First and Last names.
  9. Provide the Requestor’s Phone Number including the Area Code.
  10. Enter the Requestor’s Mailing Address, including Street Address, City, State, and Zip code.
  11. Sign your name in the space provided for the Requestor’s Signature.
  12. Calculate the fee for certified copies needed ($10.00 each) and enter the Total payment amount.
  13. Choose the method of payment and submission from the options provided. If paying by check or money order, make it payable to “Kentucky State Treasurer”. Include the payment with your form if mailing the application.

After the form and payment are submitted, processing times can vary. Whether you choose to order via internet, phone, mail, or drop box, ensure all information is complete and accurate to expedite the process. Remember, the Office of Vital Statistics is your resource for any questions or additional guidance needed throughout this process.

Crucial Queries on This Form

  1. How can I obtain a certified copy of a birth certificate in Kentucky?

    To acquire a certified copy of a birth certificate in Kentucky, you can apply through one of four methods: online, by phone, by mail, or using a drop box. Online requests can be made at the VitalChek website with additional fees for credit card payments and optional overnight courier delivery. Phone orders can be placed at (800) 241-8322, choosing option 1, with similar additional fees and delivery options. For mail orders, send your completed application with a check or money order to Vital Statistics, 275 East Main Street 1E-A, Frankfort, KY 40621. A drop box is also available at 275 E. Main St., Frankfort, where you can submit your application. Please note, all in-person services are suspended until further notice.

  2. What is the fee for obtaining a certified copy of a birth certificate in Kentucky?

    The fee for a certified copy of a birth certificate in Kentucky is $10.00. If you require additional copies, each copy will also cost $10.00. These fees are non-refundable, and the payment should be made to the "Kentucky State Treasurer." Keep in mind, if ordering online or by phone, additional fees for credit card processing and optional overnight courier service may apply.

  3. Can I order a birth certificate from Kentucky if the birth occurred before 1911?

    Birth certificates for events that occurred in Kentucky before 1911 are not available through the Office of Vital Statistics. Records from before 1911 are likely to be held by county offices or state archives. It is recommended to contact the local county's clerk office where the birth took place or the Kentucky Department for Libraries and Archives for assistance with records from this period.

  4. What information is required to request a birth certificate?

    To request a birthant Security's Certificate in Kentucky, you must provide the full name at birth, date of birth, place of birth including city or town and county, mother's maiden name, and father's name. If the child was adopted, the original name, if known, should also be included. Additionally, the requester must specify their relationship to the person on the birth certificate, provide their contact information, and sign the application.

  5. How long does it take to process a birth certificate request in Kentucky?

    The processing time for a birth certificate request in Kentucky can take up to 30 working days from the date the payment is posted, especially for applications sent by mail. However, faster processing might be available for online and phone requests, particularly if you opt for an additional payment for overnight courier delivery. It's important to plan accordingly if you need the document by a specific date.

  6. Is it possible to obtain a birth certificate from Kentucky online?

    Yes, Kentucky offers an online service for obtaining a certified copy of a birth certificate through a partnership with VitalChek. You can order online by using a credit card (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express) or by check. Note that there are additional fees for using this service, including a charge card fee and potentially a shipment fee for overnight delivery if you choose that option.

  7. Who is eligible to request a certified copy of a birth certificate in Kentucky?

    Only individuals with a direct and tangible interest in the birth certificate can request a certified copy. This includes the person named on the certificate, their parents, legal guardians or representatives, and others who demonstrate a direct interest in the context of legal rights. It is crucial to indicate your relationship to the person whose certificate you are requesting and, in some cases, to provide supporting documentation to verify that relationship.

  8. What payment methods are accepted for ordering a birth certificate in Kentucky?

    For mail orders, Kentucky accepts checks or money orders in U.S. dollars drawn from a U.S. bank. Online and phone orders can be paid with a credit card (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express) or by check. Remember, all payments must be made payable to the "Kentucky State Treasurer," and the costs associated with certified copies are non-refundable.

Common mistakes

Filling out a Kentucky Birth Certificate form is a straightforward process, but errors can and do occur. Understanding common mistakes can significantly ease the process, ensuring the request is processed smoothly and without delay. Below are ten common mistakes people make when filling out the Kentucky Birth Certificate form:

  1. Not using black ink to fill out the form, which is typically required for official documents to ensure legibility and uniformity.
  2. Entering an incorrect or incomplete name in the "Full Name at Birth" section, which is crucial for accurately identifying the birth record.
  3. Misplacing or omitting the date of birth or entering it in the wrong format, which can lead to confusion or incorrect processing of the application.
  4. Forgetting to specify the place of birth, including both the city or town and county, as well as the name of the hospital. This information is essential to locate the exact birth record.
  5. Incorrectly listing the mother's maiden name or not providing the full maiden name, which is vital for record verification purposes.
  6. Failing to mention if the child has been adopted and to provide the original name if known. This detail is crucial for accessing the correct record, especially when names may have changed.
  7. Not clearly stating the relationship of the requestor to the person on the birth certificate. Certain states restrict who can request a certified copy based on their relationship to the individual.
  8. Leaving the requester’s contact information section incomplete, including their printed name, phone number, and mailing address. Accurate contact information is necessary for any follow-up or mailing of the certificate.
  9. Omitting the requester's signature, which is a common oversight that can invalidate the application.
  10. Incorrect calculation of fees or not including the proper amount for the certified copies requested. The form clearly states the cost per copy, and ensuring the correct amount is included is essential for processing.

Attention to detail when completing the Kentucky Birth Certificate request form is crucial. Errors or omissions can lead to delays in processing or even rejection of the application. It’s important to review the application thoroughly before submission. Ensuring that all information is accurate, legible, and complete will aid in a smooth transaction with the Kentucky Office of Vital Statistics.

For those seeking to obtain a certified copy of a birth certificate, keeping these considerations in mind can help avoid common pitfalls and streamline the process. In doing so, individuals can more quickly and efficiently receive the documents needed for various legal, personal, and professional matters.

Documents used along the form

When handling vital records in Kentucky, the Kentucky Birth Certificate form is a crucial document. However, for comprehensive personal documentation, identification, and legal purposes, several other forms often accompany or are required alongside a Kentucky Birth Certificate. Understanding these documents can help streamline various processes such as applying for a passport, enrolling in school, or claiming benefits.

  1. Social Security Card Application (Form SS-5): Required for applying for a Social Security number, an essential step in accessing government services, banking, employment, and more in the United States.
  2. Passport Application (Form DS-11): Necessary for U.S. citizens planning international travel, this form is used alongside a birth certificate to establish citizenship.
  3. Application for a Driver's License: While each state's form may vary, all require a birth certificate for age and citizenship verification when applying for a first-time driver's license.
  4. Marriage License Application: Couples intending to marry must submit a marriage license application, which typically requires a birth certificate to confirm identity and age.
  5. Death Certificate Application: In the unfortunate event of death, a family member or legal representative needs to apply for a death certificate, often requiring the deceased’s birth certificate for verification.
  6. School Enrollment Forms: Many educational institutions require a birth certificate for student enrollment to verify the student's age and legal name.
  7. Child Passport Application (Form DS-3053): When applying for a passport for a minor, this form is necessary along with the child's birth certificate, especially when one parent or guardian is unable to apply in person.
  8. Application for Government Benefits: Programs such as Medicaid, Social Security benefits, or other government assistance programs typically require a birth certificate for eligibility verification.
  9. Employment Eligibility Verification (Form I-9): Employers use this form to verify the identity and employment authorization of new hires, requiring documents such as a birth certificate for verification processes.

Together, these forms and documents cover a wide range of life events and legal requirements, making the Kentucky Birth Certificate a foundational piece in personal documentation. Whether it's enrolling in school, traveling abroad, or applying for a passport, having the right documents ready can facilitate a smoother process in navigating bureaucratic and legal tasks.

Similar forms

Passport applications share notable similarities with the Kentucky Birth Certificate form, particularly in the level of detail required about an individual's identity. Just as the Kentucky Birth Certificate form requests specifics such as full name at birth, date of birth, and parents' names, a passport application requires detailed personal information, evidence of citizenship, and parental information if the applicant is a minor. Both documents serve as critical forms of identification and require stringent verification of personal details to establish identity and citizenship within respective legal frameworks.

Driver’s license applications, much like the Kentucky Birth Certificate form, necessitate the submission of personal details to affirm identity. Both ask for the full name, date of birth, and address of the individual. While a birth certificate is foundational, establishing the fact of birth and citizenship, a driver’s license application uses such vital records as a basis to confer a legal privilege, driving, further linking the individual’s identity to governmental records. Additionally, both processes involve a fee and provide a durable form of identification upon successful completion.

Marriage license applications bear resemblance to the Kentucky Birth Kazakhstan form in their requirement for detailed personal information and proof of legal eligibility. Couples must provide full names, dates of birth, and sometimes parental information, similar to the birth certificate's requirement for a person's birth details and parents' names. Both documents formalize personal statuses—birth and marital status—under the law, serving as official records for personal identification and legal documentation within the state's registry.

Social Security card applications echo the Kentucky Birth Certificate form's structure by collecting foundational personal information to establish an individual’s official identity record within government systems. Both require the applicant's full name and date of birth, crucial for tracking individuals' eligibility for services and benefits. Where a birth certificate certifies the occurrence and specifics of an individual’s birth, a Social Security application assigns a unique identifier to that record, integrating the individual into the social welfare and taxation systems.

College application forms, while designed for educational purposes, similarly necessitate comprehensive personal information mirroring the detail of the Kentucky Birth Certificate form. Applicants must provide their full legal name, date of birth, and sometimes further family information, akin to the birth certificate's requirement to establish the identity of the person applying. Although serving different end goals—one for educational enrollment and the other for a legal record of birth—both are critical in verifying and documenting identity within institutional frameworks.

Dos and Don'ts

Filling out the Kentucky Birth Certificate form accurately is crucial for ensuring your request is processed smoothly and efficiently. Here are some essential do's and don'ts to consider:

  • Do print or type the information in sections 1 through 13 clearly to prevent any misunderstandings or delays.
  • Do verify the full name at birth, date of birth, and place of birth information is accurate to avoid any discrepancies with official records.
  • Do include the correct fee of $10.00 U.S. for each certified copy you are requesting, ensuring the check or money order is made payable to “Kentucky State Treasurer.”
  • Do provide a current phone number with the area code in section 9, allowing the Office of Vital Statistics to reach you if there are any questions or issues.
  • Do ensure you state your relationship to the person whose certificate you are requesting as this is required for processing.
  • Don’t leave any sections incomplete, as this can lead to delays in processing your request.
  • Don’t

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your request for a certified copy of a birth certificate in Kentucky is completed as smoothly and quickly as possible. Always remember to verify all information for accuracy before submitting your application to the Office of Vital Statistics.

Misconceptions

When it comes to obtaining a Kentucky Birth Certificate, there are several common misconceptions that can create confusion. Understanding the facts can help streamline the process, ensuring that individuals can obtain these important documents efficiently and accurately.

  • Misconception #1: Birth Certificates Can Be Obtained Instantly
    Many people believe that they can receive a Kentucky Birth Certificate immediately upon request—either online, in person, or over the phone. However, obtaining a certified copy requires processing time. For mail orders, it can take up to 30 working days from when the payment is posted. Even online or telephone requests, which might seem instant, are subject to processing times, plus potential additional time for shipping.
  • Misconception #2: The Fee Is Refundable If No Record Is Found
    The application for a Kentucky Birth Certificate clearly states that the fee is non-refundable. This means that once you have paid the fee for a certified copy or a search of the files, you will not get your money back even if the search comes up empty or if the certificate is not available for another reason.
  • Misconception #3: Anybody Can Obtain a Birth Certificate
    Another common misunderstanding is that birth certificates are public records that can be requested by anyone. In reality, access is restricted to protect individuals' privacy and prevent identity theft. Applicants must have a direct relationship to the person on the certificate, such as being the person themselves, a parent, or a legal representative, and this must be clearly stated in the application.
  • Misconception #4: The Application Process Is Complicated
    Some people avoid requesting a birth certificate because they assume the process is overly complicated and time-consuming. While it does require providing accurate information and following specific instructions, the form itself is straightforward. Sections 1 through 13 guide the requester through providing the necessary details, from the full name at birth to the requestor’s relationship to the person, making it as uncomplicated as possible.

Understanding these misconceptions can greatly assist individuals in navigating the process of obtaining a birth certificate in Kentucky, making it a smoother and more straightforward experience.

Key takeaways

Filling out and using the Kentucky Birth Certificate form, officially known as Form VS-37 (Rev 1.3.2020), is an important task for those needing certified copies of birth certificates for a variety of reasons, from applying for a passport to enrolling in school. Here are some key takeaways to guide you through the process:

  • Availability: Birth certificates for individuals born in Kentucky since 1911 are available from the Office of Vital Statistics. This coverage ensures most residents can obtain their certificates when needed.
  • Required Information: The form requests specific details about the person whose birth certificate is needed, including full name at birth, date and place of birth, and parents’ names.
  • Adoption: If the person whose certificate is being requested was adopted, the form asks for the original name, if known, highlighting the state’s accommodation for changes due to adoption.
  • Applicant’s Relationship: You must disclose your relationship to the person on the certificate, underlining the importance of a legitimate interest or familial connection in obtaining the document.
  • Fees: The fee for obtaining a certified copy of a birth certificate is $10.00, with each additional copy costing the same. Fees are non-refundable, emphasizing the need to correctly fill out and submit the form to avoid financial loss.
  • Payment Methods: Payments can be made via check or money order payable to the “Kentucky State Treasurer,” catering to traditional forms of payment.
  • Multiple Ordering Methods: The state offers several conveniences for ordering a birth certificate, including online, by phone, through mail, or using a drop box, ensuring accessibility for all residents regardless of their access to technology or personal preferences.
  • Processing Time: Processing requests by mail can take up to 30 working days from the date payment is posted, a critical consideration for planning purposes.
  • Suspended In-person Services: Due to unforeseen circumstances like the pandemic, in-person services at the Office of Vital Statistics may be suspended, directing applicants towards alternative submission methods such as the provided drop box or online services.

Obtaining a certified copy of a birth certificate in Kentucky is a structured process designed to accommodate various needs and circumstances. By understanding these key aspects, applicants can navigate the process more effectively, ensuring a smooth transaction with the state’s Office of Vital Statistics.

Please rate Fill in Your Kentucky Birth Certificate Form Form
4.76
(Incredible)
182 Votes

Consider Common Templates