NOTE: The rules for every state may vary, and we do not give legal advice. If you have questions, we highly recommend you contact your state’s department of vital records or a family-law attorney.
There are several reasons for wanting to the change the name of the father on a child’s birth certificate: You may have discovered the man listed is not the child’s true biological father, an alleged father may want to establish a legal relationship with the child, or perhaps you simply suspect the man on the certificate is not the biological father and are curious what the process of amending vital records might entail. Whatever the case, changing the parentage on a birth certificate is a complex and time-consuming process that should not be taken lightly.
Here’s what you need to know about changing the parentage on a birth certificate.
Presumption of paternity
A birth certificate is completed and issued at the time of a child’s birth. If you are not certain of the child’s biological father at this time, you can opt to leave the father’s name empty and add it later once you have taken a paternity test, which does not require having to go to court in most states. The mother can always take a non-invasive prenatal DNA paternity test so that this information is known before the child is born. (This type of prenatal paternity test can be performed as early as seven weeks.)
In most states, both individuals are presumed to be the parents if a couple is married. This is commonly known as ‘presumption of paternity,’ as the man is automatically registered as the biological father of the child without DNA verification. If marital infidelity is suspected, a legal paternity test can be taken and presented as evidence in court.
How to change the father on a birth certificate
In order to change the father listed on a birth certificate, you must go through a lengthy process to legally pronounce an individual as a biological parent and legal guardian. This is known as adjudicating parentage.
The process begins with submitting a petition to your state judiciary requesting to adjudicate parentage. Your state should have an official form for adjudicating parentage that requests information such as:
- The name(s)of the child or children whose parentage you are trying to amend
- Whether the child(ren) currently has(have) a legally-acknowledged/presumed father
- Signature or proof of notice submitted to the new paternity registrant
- If a legal DNA paternity test has been taken prior to filing the suit
Prior to submitting a petition to adjudicate parentage, you may want to consider taking a legal paternity test to speed up the process. While a home DNA paternity test performed for personal use will clarify the paternity of the child, in most cases it cannot be used as evidence in court. Legal paternity tests have specific requirements, such as the involvement of a third party collector to verify individuals’ identities and to serve as witness to prevent any fraudulent activity.
If your case is successful, the judge can issue an order to adjudicate parentage specifically outlining what changes to make on the birth certificate. This order is required with VS 21 applications for amending birth records. When you obtain the VS 21 application, be sure to include a certified copy of the court order with the original seal and court clerk signature (not the original document) to reduce the chances of your application being rejected. Photocopies or other unofficial documents will likely not be accepted. However, it is recommended to include a photocopy of the original birth certificate to expedite the process.
Once your application to amend birth records is accepted, you will have successfully completed all of the steps to change the father on the birth certificate. The average processing time for these changes is approximately two months, after which time the new birth certificate will reflect the correct parentage.
Important note about changing a child’s birth certificate
Keep in mind that even if a DNA paternity test determines that a man who is not on the birth certificate is the actual biological father, a court may not agree to change the name on the birth certificate while the child is still a minor. This is especially true if there is already a man listed on the birth certificate who has accepted legal responsibility for the child and is supporting the child. Ultimately, for a minor child, the decision is up to the court. This is why it’s extremely important for men who think they fathered a child to make a claim within the first two (2) years.
Getting a legal DNA paternity test
Changing the father on a child’s birth certificate can be difficult, but by taking a legal paternity test beforehand, you can eliminate a lot of unnecessary costs and waiting time.
IDENTIGENE legal paternity tests are fast, simple, and affordable. Just call to set up a collection appointment, bring proper ID verification, and get your results in two business days after the samples arrive at our laboratory.
Take the first step of changing the father’s name on your child’s birth certificate with a legal paternity test from IDENTIGENE. Learn more about legal paternity testing in this blog post or click here to arrange for a legal paternity test now.
Follow us on Facebook and Twitter! If you have questions about paternity tests or other DNA testing services, please contact our Client Support Center at 800-34-9583, Mon-Fri from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM Eastern Time. Our friendly, expert representatives are ready and happy to help. Get answers anytime by visiting our Help Center.
Sources
“Adjudication Clauses, Rules and Procedures.” Construction Adjudication (2004): 113-40. California Department of Public Health. Web. 22 June 2015 <http://www.cdph.ca.gov/certlic/birthdeathmar/Documents/AdjudicationPAMPHLET-(01-14)-MERGED.pdf>
“Establishing Paternity and Legal Paternity Testing.” IDENTIGENE. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 June 2015 <http://dnatesting.com/establishing-paternity-and-legal-paternity-testing/>.
“Paternity Testing: Can I Change the Name on the Birth Certificate?” Home DNA Direct. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 June 2015 <http://www.homednadirect.com/dna-news/can-i-change-the-name-on-the-birth-certificate-with-paternity-testing.html>
alma guevara says
Hello. My husband was out of the united states aT the time i gave birth to my son so he now has had my last name. Now that he is older we now thought of changing his last name to my husbands. My question is will i need. DNA test? My husband doe NOT question his paternity or wants a DnA SO HOW do i do that without getting a DNA?
IDENTIGENE says
Hi, Alma. Since no one is questioning paternity, we believe you don’t need a DNA test…just a petition to change your son’s name legally. Please get legal assistance for how to do this in your area. Good luck!
Rebecca says
Hello, I just did this with my daughter. She was given my last name at birth. All you have to do is go to the department of health website, download and print the Acknowledgement of Paternity” form and also download and print the “Amended birth certificate” form. Then you mail it in./
Tina says
What all did they ask for and what all did u have to do after they sent you an update?
Felicia farlow says
I never had a father on my birth certificate but now I do. The father they put on my birth certificate is not my biological father both doesn’t know how this happen how can this be fixed
IDENTIGENE says
Hi, Felicia. Please read the article you commented on. It has all the information you need. :) Good luck!
Ty says
My son just received his results back it show 0.00 % saying he was not father, the mother believe there was error made when testing simple which we follow instruction as indicated simple drop directly in each envelope, how do we do another test in local city with 3rd party lab
IDENTIGENE says
Did you all test in the same room? Is it possible that someone else’s DNA may have been submitted for any of the participants? When we get a 0% possibility of paternity, the test is run again by a different technician, just to be sure. So you can be certain the results are 100% accurate for the samples we were given. If you want to do a supervised, or legal, test with all samples being witnessed by a third party, we can arrange that for you. Just call us at 888-404-4363 during business hours (M-F, 9 AM to 5:30 PM Eastern). Hope this helps!
Rebecca Lofton says
Hello, I’m 44 years old and found out that the father on my birth certificate is not my father. I know who my biological father is and we have already did a legal DNA . My mother and the man on my birth certificate are both deceased. I would like to have my biological father on there. He wants the same also. Please help me.
IDENTIGENE says
Hi, Rebecca. There’s lots of good information in the blog you commented on that could help. Also, you can do an internet search for how to change a name on a birth certificate in your specific state. I suggest starting there. Good luck!
Paul says
I have as similar situation. Did you have any luck? What state are you in?
Kylie says
Hi my name is Kylie. My son is 5 months old and at the time of his birth I didn’t add a father to his birth certificate. His biological dad is not in cocked at all whatsoever, which is a good thing, but my boyfriend who has been involved since I was 13 weeks pregnant has decided he wants to be on there and I want the same. Is there anyway to do this without going through the whole adoption process?
IDENTIGENE says
Hi, Kylie. I suggest you check with your local state government to see what’s required in your state. How wonderful that your boyfriend is stepping in as a father figure to your child. Hats off to him!
Tina says
The same thing with my fiancee now on my 2 boys.. I never put there father on there certificate but now my fiancee wants on it. Im still trying to get info on how to do this. Would have been a great fathers day gift..
Kylie says
That should have said involved! Not in cocked lol oops!!
jocelyn oneal says
my daughter is 2 the man want to get his name off the birth cause he is not the father and i would like that to
Emett says
I just recently gained knowledge of my 3 year old daughter. My daughters mother gave my daughter her last name. Do I have any rights as to her getting my last name? I want her to have my last name. How do I get this fixed?
IDENTIGENE says
Hi, Emett. We don’t give legal advice. I suggest you Google this subject for your state or contact an attorney in your area or your city or state government to see what your options are. Thanks!
Kristin says
90% of the time you have to go to the local family courts in the county your child was born in request the petitions for both a DNA test or to admit paternity. Once this is done you do the petition to be put on the BC.
cris says
when i had my 2 year old son my bf at that time wanted to have his name put on the birth certificate but he is not the father and i am no longer with him and dna test has been done it was court ordered. and he was not the father can i get his name removed.and my husband wants to adopt him now and put his name on the birth certificate
IDENTIGENE says
Hi, Cris. You can contact a local attorney or state records office to find out how to do that where you live. All the best!
Tara Wright says
My child is 2 and the father that sign the birth certificate went behind my back and took an home DNA test. The results were 0% and he now demands money back and his last name. What should I do since I wasn’t present when he took the test?
IDENTIGENE says
Hi, Tara. You should probably contact a lawyer immediately.
Amy Barber says
Hi, My friend recently found out that his wife whom he just got to sign divorce papers, name a baby she has with another man his last name while he was deployed. My question what can be done to correct this. The mother is very reluctant to correct this, knowing that the child isn’t his and has even lied about the childs last name but it is proven that she carries my friends last name.
Admin says
Hi, Amy. Tough situation! If they were still married at the time the baby was born, your friend is considered the legal father. Every state is different, so he should contact an attorney in his state to see what can be done.
Brittany says
My boyfriend was with this girl 3 years ago a week after he left she got pregnant she wrote my boyfriend an told him he might be the father when the baby was born she never call or told him anything else about the baby she told the other guy it was his baby so the other guy name is on the baby birth certificate the mother dont wont to take a test for the kid an the other guy has been in the child life for 3years because the mother dont wont my boyfriend to be the kids father but the baby looks just like my boyfriend an my daughter i know thats my boyfriend kid an he wont to know so he took a dna test with the kid without the mother or the other guy knowing now if the test come back saying my boyfriend is the kids father what can my boyfriend do to be a part of the little boys life being that his name not on the birth certificate an can he put his name on it if he is the father if he go to court.
Admin says
Hi, Brittany. Although I understand that you were curious and wanted answers, your boyfriend unfortunately committed fraud by submitting the child’s samples without the authorization (signed consent) of the boy’s legal guardians. The only way your boyfriend can be part of this boy’s life is if the boy’s legal parents thinks it’s a good idea or if he gets the courts to agree he should be. You may also want to ask yourself if doing this is in the best interest of the child. Good luck!
Samantha says
Hi there!
The guy who signed on my child’s birth cert has been “proven” not the father by an at home DNA test. Even though she looks 100% like him and also has his blood type, he decided to abandon the both of us when she was just a baby, in which he moved to another state.
The other father my child knows of is the one that has been there with her since her “biological dad” left and the good guy wants his name on the birth cert and changed ASAP. I also want this.
I have also tried to get the bad guy to sign away his parental rights in which he refuses and states “it’s not his child so he shouldn’t have shouldn’t have to do anything”.
Any advice would be so very helpful.
Thank you.
Admin says
Hi, Samantha. It sounds as if the good guy is a good guy indeed! I suggest you contact a lawyer to see what the law is and what your options are where you live. And remember, looks and blood type alone are never an absolute determinant of paternity . . . only a DNA test can do that. Unless some sort of fraud occurred during your test (the guy on the birth certificate submitted someone else’s DNA instead of his own, for example), you can rely on the results because the science is sound. I sincerely wish you all the best!
Samantha says
Thank you very much for your response.
Admin says
Of course! I wish you all the best, Samantha.
Chelsea says
I was wondering about that. If you feel a result was in error how do you go about fixing it. My ex and I dated on and off for 3 plus years. It wasn’t a good relationship and when he went to prison I got into another relationship and ended it 30 days before his release date because he promised he had changed. When he got home we didn’t do anything because it was that time of the month but then after that we were inseparable. He started to cheat again and I dumped him and went back to my ex. Soon after that I found out was about 11 weeks pregnant and didn’t know. My due date was in August which makes the time I conceived in November which was the month he came home and I had dumped my ex in October. But we got a test and he “was not the father”
Identigene says
If you think some kind of fraud was committed by a test participant during home testing, then you can get a legal, witnessed test to be absolutely sure.
Sarah says
Why is the other guy a “bad guy” if it was proven by science that he is not the father??! Because he doesn’t want to get wallet raped by a woman who sleeps with multiple dudes? The kid is NOT HIS so it’s NOT HIS responsibility. I am a woman and I am disgusted by this. I believe in “my body, my choice” and an empowered woman takes responsibility for what dudes come in your body instead of playing victim. I worry about the “good guy”.. he must be desperate.
Kofybean says
You call him a bad guy yet you don’t even know who the father of your child is?
munoz says
Me and my girlfriend just had a baby girl and I can’t put my name on the birth certificate cause she still married and I don’t got any rights to her what can I do. I’m in Georgia
Admin says
Hi! I suggest you contact a lawyer to see what your options are. Good luck!
Abriel says
Hi,
If originally there is no father on the birth certificate, you take a paternity test and it comes out positive, can the mother put the name of the biological father on the birth certificate without his signature and consent?
Admin says
Hi, Abriel. You should confirm with your local department of vital records, but my understanding is that a man cannot be added to a birth certificate without his consent.
John says
Recently my friends ex is trying to get a DNA test on her daughter but on the birth certificate her recent boyfriends name is in there as the father cuz her ex didn’t want no part of her daughter can he get a DNA test and fight for custody after 2 years
Admin says
Hi, John. It’s hard to say, and we’re not legal experts, so I suggest the ex contact an attorney to see what the courts in his area can do for him. What I can tell you is this: When he refused to sign the birth certificate at the time of the baby’s birth, he was in effect denying that he is her father and he has no legal rights to her. It’s possible that a judge would consider that decision if this goes to court.
Jason hyde says
I have a daughter that is not biologically mine and my names is on the birth certicate I had been with my x partner since she was three months pregnant and now separated now my daughter is three her grandmother filed for an parternity test and was struck out.due to her mother not showing up to court so me my ex partner and the biological father all agreed I was the father of the child now that me and the ex are now seprated can she file for a parternity test even though we setteled it in court I still want to be the child’s dad and don’t want to lose her and maybe the biological father is intrested now
Identigene says
Hi, Jason. The courts tend to do what they think is in the best interest of the child, regardless of biology.
Alex says
Hi me and my ex have a 7 year old and I have just fand out that hur b.catifcut has hur ex bf on it do I have to do a DNA wen I and my kids mum no I’m the dad and thes no regiment over it ?
Admin says
Hi, Alex! If you want the right to make legal decisions for your child, then you should ask to have your name put on the birth certificate instead of the ex-boyfriend’s, yes. Keep in mind that a DNA test will probably be required in your state, and that it will have to be a legal test. This means that the DNA collection and submission to the lab will need to be witnessed by a disinterested third-party. We can arrange a legal test in your area if you decide you want to do it. Just give us a call at 888-404-4363 (M-F, 9 AM to 5:30 PM Eastern).
Sasha says
I am 27 years old now. My biological father is deceased. I was adopted by another couple as their daughter when I was 1 month old. I use their names as mother and father. Now I want to change my father’s name on my documents as Iegally and on my documentations. My father who adopted me died few years ago and I have no idea where my biological mother is. But my mom who actually brought me up doesn’t want me to change my name. But in out religion, I cannot get married if I don’t use my biological father’s name.
Admin says
Hi, Sasha! If your answer is not in this blog article, I suggest you contact an attorney in your area or your state’s vital records department to see what can be done.
sheidah says
father of myson gave mychild surname without my petmission i was in pain for c section is when he took advantage of chd
Emily V. says
My husband was not present during our sons birth, so I was told our baby must have my maiden name. I’ve changed my last name to match my husbands, now were trying to figure out how to fix our sons. Do we need to fill out the AOP since were married and legally he is the father regardless of paternity?
Admin says
Hi, Emily. I recommend contacting your state’s department of vital records to see what they require from you for your unique circumstance.
Lori Colbert says
Hi
My name is Lori. On the original birth certificate there was no name for the father but now that she is older (25 years old) She would like the last name of the man that raised her. He would like to have it done as well. What needs to be done?
Admin says
Hi, Lori! There is good info in the article you commented on. And for specifics in your state, I highly recommend you contact your state’s department of vital records. It’s so wonderful that she wants to take the name of the man who raised her – that says so much for his character and how much he’s meant to her in her life. All my best to all of you!
Delphina says
Hi Lori i have a question I’m in the same situation as you , were you able to put the name of the man that rasied your daughter, please give me information
Aida says
I’m also in this situation. Were any of you able to do it?
Necee says
If I a married and I have a baby during my marriage and someone else signs birth certificate and my husband wants his name on the birth certificate. What would he have to do to do that?
Admin says
Hello, Necee! You need to contact the vital records department for your state and see what the requirements are to do that. But my understanding is that the man on the birth certificate would first need to relinquish his parental rights. Have you done a paternity test to determine who the biological father is? I believe that makes a difference on whether or not your husband would need to adopt the child, but really, that’s just a guess. I highly, highly recommend that you talk to an attorney, the agency I suggested, or other legal expert on this subject. Good luck!
Samantha says
Hi the man on my child’s birth certificate has nothing to do with her and hasn’t since day one really my current partner is the first person she has called daddy and he wants to and I want to have him on the birth certificate instead as he has been there and always treated her as his own. Please could you advice me on how I go about getting the man off and my partner on. I thought after ,5 years with no contact you could get them removed it’s now been 6 years.
Admin says
Hi, Samantha! Different states have their own requirements for amending the father’s name on a birth certificate. I highly recommend you contact your state’s department of vital records or an attorney to see what the latest laws are.
Heather says
For some reason, my husbands name is not on our sons birth certificate. We were married at the time and the father was also present at birth. So my question is, why would his name not be on there? Was this in error?
Admin says
Hi, Heather. This is a legal question and you’d need to ask the office of vital records for the state in which your son was born. Good luck!
Msry says
If I hsve a child and the man I am about to marry signs birth certificate as father and now my ex is taking me to court for custody, how is this possible and does he have any rights? Married and confused.
Admin says
Hi! Have you had a paternity test done? If so, what did it show? If a legal paternity test has not been performed yet, this motion may be your ex’s first step to having one ordered.
Vic says
Hi I have a problem to for my son birth certificate, he’s father use a different name on my son birth certificate he use a different first name. My question is how to change this name. We always talk about this matter. To be changed soon since our son still 1 year old
Admin says
Hi, Vic! I suggest you contact your state’s department of vital records to see what the requirements are where you live.
Sandy says
My boyfriend has a 10 year old daughter that he has had since she was 6 months old. Her mother has never been apart of her life. Her birth certificate doesn’t have him listed as the father. How do we get this issue solved without the mother?
Admin says
Hi, Sandy. I’m pretty sure that she must be involved since she has legal rights on behalf of the child. I suggest you contact your local department of vital records and see what they say. They may also suggest you hire an attorney. Good luck!
Paul says
Hi im not on my sons birth certificate, another male is (the partner of his mother). À dna test has been done through easy dna and came back im 99.9% his biological father. Im not allowed to see my son as they keep say prove im his father. Everytime i see a photo he has black eyes or a new mark. How do i go about changing it?
Admin says
Hi, Paul. Contact an attorney right away!
SILENT says
HELP ME PLEASE…IM 23 AND MY SON IS 2.
THE FATERS NAME ON THE BIRTH CERTIFICATE IS NOT THE FATHER. IM CURRENTLY WITH THE REAL FATHER BUT DONT HAVE A CLUE HOW TO CHANGE THE NAME ON THE BIRTH CERTIFICATE. PLEASE TELL ME HOW TO DO THIS. I AM ANTISOCIAL AND VERY SCARED. THANK YOU
Admin says
Hi there! We gave some basics in this article that might help you. If you need more help, I highly recommend that you contact your local bureau of vital statistics or even an attorney.
dana says
dear admin:
I too have this same predicament.
Wrong man on the birth certificate!
My son is now 12 yrs old & knows that the man on the birth certificate is not his father. The one on the birth certificate actually was just released from prison after an 8 1/2 year stay, soo,, you see, they don’t even really have a bond.
This man has filed for custody of my son whom he is fully aware of does NOT belong to him, due to the fact that we NEVER had sex with one another. I asked the court for a DNA test in which the alleged father REFUSED, The courts allowed him a continuance in order to find the ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF PATERNITY which does indeed exist.
This man whom barley knows my child and is NOT his father is trying to take him from me will NOT give up, .
We haven’t gone back to court yet. I am scared to death that because of this acknowledgement of paternity that I regretfully signed when my son was born, this man will be granted some sort of parental rights. Even giving him visitation at all will be unbearable.
I need badly to know what to do,
How to get a handle on this. how to have this man removed from my sons birth certificate. ‘
Can a Mother disestablish paternity?
Every article I read anywhere I’ve looked explains a father doing a disestablish paternity.
no mention of the mother being able to,
I need help
Identigene says
Hi, Dana. Do you have access to a legal-service provider or family-law attorney? They are your best resource for difficult legal questions. I wish you all the best.
Barbara says
My child was born out of wedlock which was a big taboo at the time, plus the biological father was married. I concealed his identity & listed someone else as the father to protect everyone I thought would be hurt by the relationship. I was a teenager at the time and thought I made the right decision. Of course, the only person truly hurt was the child. There is no signature of a father on the BC.
Is it possible to request a new certificate to show the biological father’s name or will my child who is an adult now, have to live with the poor decision I made?
Admin says
Hi, Barbara! Don’t be too hard on yourself – you made the decision you thought best at a very young age. Because rules and laws vary from state to state, I highly recommend that you contact the department of vital records for your state and/or a family-law attorney who can advise you on what to do and what the possibilities are. I wish you and your child all the best.
Kadi says
My daughter is 2 1/2 and when she was born i was 16. I didn’t put her fathers name on the birth certifate and she has my last name. Can I change her last name and put her father on it now without going to court?
Admin says
Hi, Kadi. That entirely depends on the rules, laws, and regulations in the state where you live. I suggest contacting the department of vital records or a family law attorney. Good luck!
Demetria says
Hi when I had my Son I did not put his father down and no one signed its blank. After 21 years his step father some how got his origenel birth certificate and signed it and gave it to him. Isn’t that forgery and can he get in truble for it? I don’t want him on the certificate and my Son dose not want him on it.
Admin says
Hi, Demetria. I suggest you contact your state’s department of vital statistics to see what can be done to fix it. I don’t believe that signature is valid anyway unless it’s signed in the presence of two witnesses plus a notary.
Tyler Barne says
i have no father on my birth certificate how do i fill it with my step father that has raised me since birth?
Admin says
Hi, Tyler. The easiest thing to do would be to call you state’s department of vital records, since the requirements are different in different states. You’re lucky that you have such a great stepfather. Good luck!
angelabelmontes says
My sons is a year old and his father wasn’t able tp be there to sight his birth certificate how can I do it to if he wants to sign?
Admin says
Hi! I suggest you contact the department of vital records for your state to see what their process is. It varies state by state.
Jesse says
I recently got a woman pregnant. She does not want a relationship with me and wants the child to herself. There is a chance I may not be the father. If I am, I want to name and be there completely for my child. But I do not want to be put on the birth certificate if the child is not mine. What do I do if the mother doesn’t want me involved at all and will I have to wait until after the birth to do a DNA test to certify relations? If it is negative am I removed from the birth certificate?
Admin says
Hi, Jesse! Although our lab doesn’t perform them, there are non-invasive prenatal paternity tests available at a cost of about $1,200-2,000. The other option is to wait till the baby’s born and collect DNA via painless cheek swabs and do the test then at a much lower cost ($89). For your own legal and financial protection, I highly recommend that you NOT sign a birth certificate or acknowledgment of paternity in the first place until a paternity test is performed. If she refuses to allow it but still wants you to sign the birth certificate, the court can compel her to agree to a paternity test. She cannot put your name on the birth certificate without your signed consent. In many states, once you sign that birth certificate, you are legally responsible for the child even if a subsequent paternity test shows you are not the biological father. It might be a good idea to contact a family-law attorney. Good luck!
Jerry says
When I was born, my father’s name was not submitted onto my birth-certificate, leaving it blank instead. We have no doubts who my father is and I would like his name on my birth-certificate, but do we need a DNA test to put his name in even if we’re just filling in the blank?
Admin says
Hi, Jerry! In most cases the father just needs to submit a request for “legitimation of birth” to the state’s department of vital records. But keep in mind every state’s requirements are different, so I highly recommend that you contact your department of vital records directly or visit their website.
Ydlt says
Will a paternity test be needed to change the name of my sons father if he knows that he is not the dad, and the biological father wants to be listed on the birth certificate? I was married at the time I gave birth and have his name on the certificate however he is not the biological father, will DNA testing still be required.
Admin says
Hi! Has any paternity testing been done yet? If not, how do you know which of the two men is the biological father? Aside from who is the biological father, in most states, if a couple is married, then the husband is added to the birth certificate and is automatically considered to be the legal father. Paternity law varies from state to state, so I can’t tell you for sure if the court will allow the name on a birth certificate to be changed where you live. I suggest you contact the department of vital records for the state where you live or a family law attorney to see what is required or permitted in your state. Good luck!
Amanda Maberry says
I got married when I was 8 months he is not the father and knew it and is on the birth certificate now we want to get a divorce but he doesn’t want to pay child support and need his name off the certificate. If we both know and agree he is not the biological dad do we have to have a test done or can we just sign some papers and have him taken off?
Admin says
Hi, Amanda! Every state has different rules about legal paternity changes. I highly recommend you contact your state’s department of vital records to see what the rules are or contact a family-law attorney. Good luck!
Jeanette Cocklin says
I gave birth in 09/13/2016, not married,don’t have a stable relationship with the dad,while I was in the hospital I have signed the paternity to put the dad on it,but I still have to get the original birth certificate in the next couple of days . I have changed my mind and do not want the dad on the birth certificate, if I go to the office to get the birth certificate can I still remove the dad and only have my name as mother on it?
Admin says
Hey, Jeanette. Congratulations on your new baby! Every state has different rules regarding paternity and changing names on a birth certificate, so you’ll need to check with your state’s department of vital records. In order for the dad to be on that birth certificate, he must have signed his consent, and so he’ll need to be involved in this decision too.
Angela says
Hi! My daughter is listed as my parents daughter on her birth certificate since she was born. Because i was young back then,and her dad left me when i was pregnant. Out of embarrasment i asked my parents to put her as their daughter.but im the one who took care of her…now shes 11 i want her to be put as my daughter in her birth certificate what should i do…please help me..
Admin says
Hi, Angela. You need to contact your state’s department of vital statistics and get direction from them, because every state’s different. Or you can contact a family law attorney. All the best to you and your daughter!
Jessica says
15 years ago my husband was with someone else
She was cheating on her boyfriend at the time
Ended up pregnant put her boyfriend name on the birth cettificate
Now 15 years later she wants to do dna
Now my husband has no interest in this
She has told him the child is not his
Can she come after him for back support and dna Now?
What does she have too do?
Admin says
Hi, Jessica. You would need to check with your state’s department of vital records or a family law attorney. Each state has different rules about paternity and child support, so I can’t speak to your specific case. Sorry!
Jason Wang says
Hi this is Jason. My girlfriend was married to someone 16 years ago. We had two daughter during those years. 10 years ago they divorsed and my girlfriend has both kids. Then they moved in with me. 4 years ago she left. Now both girls are with me. The birth certificate of their don’t have my name on it. What should I do to change the father’s name to me so I can be the legal father. Thanks
Admin says
Hi, Jason. Because every state’s requirements for changing the name on the birth certificate, I recommend you contact your state’s department of vital statistics and they’ll be able to direct you. Good luck!
Jasmine Sanchez says
Hi, so i am legally married but seperated i have a boyfriend and we had a child together, but when i was pregnant my husband who i am married to let me use his insurance. So when i gave birth to my child i gave her my husbands last name but he is not her father and nobody signed as the father on her birth certificate. She is now 2yrs old and i want to change her last name to my boyfriends cause he is her father. He does not want to take a dna test because we are 100% sure he is her father. Will he have to take one?
Admin says
Hi, Jasmine. It’s hard to say because paternity laws vary from state to state. I’m thinking that, even though he’s not on the birth certificate, your state recognizes your husband as the legal father by virtue of your having been married when the baby was born. I recommend you contact the department of vital statistics for your state or a family-law attorney where you live.
Lauren says
My ex bf is on my child’s BC and he is not her father. He has not been in her life and now that she’s 2, wants to try to be there when she has a father figure whom she calls daddy. He is not willing to take a DNA test to get him off her BC, is there a way I can legally make him?
Admin says
Hi, Lauren. Because laws are different state by state, I suggest you contact your department of vital statistics or a family-law attorney to see what your options are. Good luck!
Brendon says
My ex-wife had a child the child is now 4 or 5yrs old and I just found out that the child bears my surname I am not the father and I did not give her permission to use my name, we were divorced several years prior to her having the child what can I do to have my surname removed from the child’s BC
Admin says
Hi, Brendon. Is she still going by her married surname? Because that would explain why she wants the child to have the same name. Since every state’s rules are different, I suggest you contact your state’s department of vital statistics and/or a family law attorney to see what your options are. Good luck!
Tony says
I had a baby with a girl i was seeing ,according to her she wasnt able to have kids he and her ex husband tried for years and she had another relationship and still felt that something was wrong with her reproductive system, i have three other children with my ex wife so i knew i was able to produce a child .she didnt take me serious 3months later she was pregnant. .i stayed with her until about 6mom. During the pregnancy but we had a falling out, i tried to be at the birth of the baby but they kicked me out ..so that her exhusband could be their.to sign the bc i can see the baby she is 10days old is she old enough for a test.? I think its horrible knowing im the father and i want to be their and this guy signs the bc …i can careless about them thats my baby not his….
Admin says
Hi, Tony. A baby can be tested as soon as it’s born, so that’s not a problem. Seeing as he’s on the birth certificate, the ex-husband is now considered the legal father of the child. In order to make any changes, you’d need to petition the court for testing. I suggest you contact a family-law attorney in your area to see what can be done.
Angie says
My son has an other man’s last name how can I remove his name with out him knowing he knows he is not the father and I know he won’t go to court or do any of those things what can I do to give my son my last name
Admin says
Hi, Angie. Every state’s rules are different. I suggest you contact your state’s department of vital statistics and they can advise you.
Combs says
My daughters biological father signed the birth certifacte then latered asked to get off we voided the voluntary acknowledgement of paternity which removed his name. Now he is wanting back on the birth certificate. Is there anyway he can do this?
Admin says
Hi! Every state’s rules about this are different, so I suggest you contact your state’s department of vital statistics to get a sure answer.
dana fussell says
to Combs :
you say that you VOIDED the acknowledgement of paternity to remove him.
that is EXACTLY what I need to do. I am in the state of Florida & it seems impossible.
how ?
Natalie says
Hello , My Situation Is A Bit More Different .. I Have A Baby By Someone Else & I Am Now Married I Left The Biological Father & Since Then He Hasn’t Been In My Baby’s Life I Haven’t Been To Court At All So I Don’t Have Full Custody & Before I Got Married My Boyfriend At The Time Took Over The Biological Father’s Job & Now That We Are Married Is There Any Way I Can Have My Husband On My Baby’s Birth Certificate Even Though The Biological Dad Is On Her Birth Certificate.??
Admin says
Hi, Natalie. Because the specific rules in each state are different, you’ll need to contact your state’s department of vital statistics or a family law attorney for your answer.
Joel G says
Hi, I had a relation with a friend that lasted 2 months, she decided to go with the a cross the street guy. A week after she tells me she’s prego 4 weeks but that she is not going to let me be the father and rather have her new bf sign at birth and father the child. I know everything is still soon but want to have headsup. I want to be in the picture and be the father named on the cert. My question is, would I be able to get my name in the cert even if he does it before me? Would I still be able to do so also if they decide to marry before birth. Thank you for replys ahead if time, I would gladly appreciate it.
Admin says
Hi, Joel. If they marry before the birth, then the other man is automatically considered the legal father of the child. I suggest you contact a family-law attorney in your state or your state’s department of vital statistics to see what your possibilities are. Good luck!
Lc says
Hi. Back in 2009 I had a son with my then boyfriend. He is not the biological father but took on the roll. He even signed the acknowledgment of paternity and is on the birth certificate. My son is now 7 and I have done a at home paternity test (not legal test) to prove that he is not the biological father. It came back not the father. His real biological father has taken a at home test as well that proves that he is the father. My question is if both fathers agree to who is dad can I remove my ex from the birth certificate and add the real biological father??? And will the court require more DNA testing than what has been done???
Admin says
Hi, Lc. Every state’s rules regarding changing the father on a birth certificate is different, so I suggest you contact your state’s vital records office or a family-law attorney. Good luck!
Nadia says
Hi! Question. I am currently 26 years old and my biological father walked out when I was younger and I was raised by my step father. I still kept my biological fathers last name- I am married now and took my husbands last name. My question is I want my step father to legally be my father on paper. How and what do I have to do to get this done?
Identigene says
Hi, Nadia. Because every state’s processes and requirements vary, I suggest you contact the department of vital records for your state or a family-law attorney. Your stepfather sounds like a great man and that you have a wonderful relationship. Good luck!
Elizabeth says
Hello,
My situation is that I found out I was pregnant when I was 4 month long. I knew who the father was but couldn’t find him. At that time I was in a relationship so he decided to signed the birth certificate even though he wasn’t the biological father. It didn’t last long we separate. Now the biological father contacted me and started to be in his child life but recently he passed away. Now I’m trying to take my daughter to Mexico but I can’t with out the other parents consent. I got in contact with my ex (not the father but signed the birth certificate) and he agreed to give up his parental right or signed any document regarding he’s not the biological father. How can I go by doing that?
Identigene says
Hi, Elizabeth. Because every state’s processes and requirements vary, I suggest you contact the department of vital records for your state or a family-law attorney. Good luck!
Celestina says
Hi, here’s one for you: My father is deceased as are his parents. His birth was registered a day after he was born however the name of the family was left blank; the child’s (my father) surname was not his mother’s maiden name nor his father’s surname. I am obtaining Italian citizenship “through the blood” and need to correct my father’s birth record. I live in California. Obtained forms from secretary of state (petition for and Order to adjudicate parantage). I completed the forms, added a declaration and had lots of proof (documents) to back everything up. The court refused to allow me to file because they said my father isn’t alive to agree to have his name changed. I called Secretary of State again and they told me that yes, i should be able to obtain order. so my question is this: Have you ever heard of anyone obtained a corrected birth record for their deceased parent? THank you.
Identigene says
Hi, Celestina. Have you contacted a family-law attorney in California? A lawyer would be your best resource for resolving this difficult issue. It’s a toughie, and I wish you luck!
Mel says
I have a 3 month old and the birth certificate has no information about the father what so ever but he has thr father last name. I was recently told that that should not have happen if there is no info on the father the baby should have been given my name is this true? How do i change the baby name to mine?
Identigene says
Hi, Mel. Because rules about birth certificates vary from state to state, I suggest you contact the department of vital records for your state to see what they advise. You could also contact a family-law attorney. Good luck!
Jessica says
Hello ok so I have been with my ex off and on for 13 years we have 2 kids together boy and girl. When I got pregnant with the boy him and I weren’t really together and I was seeing someone else to. I don’t believe that he is the father on my son. I never and still haven’t told him yet. The last 4 months have been rough for us and on my birthday New Year’s Eve I was arrested for domestic violence against him he got a order of protection on me so I can’t see or talk to my kids. I am contesting the order of protection and now I want a DNA test done.!he made a lot of false allegations in the order of protection and now I’m afraid I won’t get my kids because of the domestic violence. I want the dna done so I can have my son back . I have been a stay at home mom for a year now I’m lost can you help me
Identigene says
Hi, Jessica. You need to contact a family-law attorney, legal service, or social worker for help in obtaining a DNA test. I wish you all the best and hope things turn out well for you and your family.
Jordon Dahme says
My fiancé gave birth and to or knowledge I was the. Igor also dad. After recent news I felt urged to do an at home paternity test which stated I am not the father. It didn’t matter I want to be the father blood or not. Since I am on the birth certificate unknowingly assuming I was the biological father, could the. Biological dad at any point step in and take my “son” ?
Identigene says
Hi, Jordon. For a legal question like this, I suggest you contact a family-law attorney.
Britney says
My names britney im from IndiIndia. I was just wondering i have a 3 year old and she has her real dad on her birth certificate but hes not in her life but im getting married soon. So ca
n my 3 year old take my husbands last name instead ?
Identigene says
Hi, Britney. Thanks for reaching out! The rules for this are different not only in the United States, but also in different countries around the world. I suggest you contact a family-law attorney in your part of India to see what you can do. I wish you well on your upcoming marriage!
Michael says
I live in Ohio, my son and the mother live in new York. The mother of my child will not have any contact with me. How can I sign my son’s birth certificate if she is not in Ohio and also I have no known address where she is at in new York. I established thru the courts that I am the father by taking a paternity test. And I pay child support too. I feel like Ohio courts do not care about father’s rights.
Identigene says
Hi, Michael. It sounds as if you’re in a really tough situation! Please contact the Ohio department of vital records for the answer to your question or a family-law attorney. I wish you all the best!
Stephanie nicloe says
I live in Texas and my parents were only 14 when I was born.so my so my maternal grandparents didn’t allow my father to be put on my birth certificate but he’s always been involved in my life I am now 30 and wanting to put him on my birth certificate.how would I go about doing that??
Identigene says
Hi, Stephanie. How wonderful that you want to do this! Every state is different, so I recommend you contact the Texas department of vital statistics. Good luck!
Mark says
Hi, If someone could give me some help with my question that be great? Okay im 24 years of age, and me and my, well was soppose to be fiancé been togeather for 6 years and recently broke up six-7 mothes ago. We had to amazing children, who are now 2 years of age and my oldest is six. i recently moved away, shortly after we broke up. i needed to work to support both my kids so i had to leave due to my job which pays really well. I always think about em, always on my mind. i see them when i can, not as much i want. sometimes i fill like being one of those dads who could care less. but i cant, because i love those two more then anything. Okay, now that i got that all off my chest….. she recently got engaged to another guy, i still give her between 100-150 a week to help her with my children, knowing we didnt go to court. we thought it be easier and civilised with one another out of court. onced they get married; can he adopt my kids and chance the name on there birth cerificate knowing im still in there life, i want to be part of there life…. im supporting them. Look, if someone reads this and they absolutely know anything about this post… please comment back i would love to hear your input
Identigene says
Hi, Mark! sounds like a rough situation. The laws for changing names on a birth certificate vary from state to state, so I recommend that, when the time comes, you retain a family-law attorney in the state where your children live. If this goes to court, they may choose to determine if there is enough evidence to support ordering a paternity test. Traditionally, courts rule in favor of what they think is in the best interest of the children. Good luck!
Mike says
I am the legal father going to court for custody for my 2 yrs old daughter and find out from the mother that she took a DNA test almost 2yrs ago and she’s not mines.. I know you don’t provide legal advise but would one of your test prevent me from being recognize as a legal father at the hearing
Identigene says
Hi, Mike. Test results can only be used in court if the mother did a legal witnessed test. A peace-of-mind test performed at home will not be accepted.
Ruby says
Hello my name is Ruby my son is now 6 years old and at the time of his birth his father was present and signed his birth certificate we had broken up a few weeks prior to my sons birth so I did not expect him to show up but he did and he disappeared just as quick as he appeard and has not shown his face or tried to contact my son in the past 6 years we have not moved or changed numbers so with that being said how would I go about removing his name from the birth certificate as I feel he does not deserve to be on it for abandoning my child
Identigene says
Hi, Ruby. Sounds like a rough situation. Every state’s rules about removing or changing names on a birth certificate are different. I suggest you start by contacting your state’s department of vital statistics and see what they say. Good luck!
Curious says
Is it possible to have a deceased non-biological parent removed from a child’s birth certificate?
The mother & the deceased had a child out of wedlock & she made him believe he was the parent. He later got married & his then wife (now widow) convinced him to get a DNA test, proving he was not the father. He unfortunately passed away before he was able to have his name removed & the mother of the child filed to receive social security.
Can the widow request the courts to remove his name from the birth certificate? Is the mother breaking any laws by collecting social security money from a man whom she knows is not the father of her child?
Curious says
My apologies, the deceased was led to believe that he & the mother had a child out of wedlock, which the DNA test concluded was false.
Identigene says
Hi! Every state has different laws regarding what can and cannot be done with the removal of a name from a birth certificate. We are not a legal service; we just provide DNA testing. For your particular situation, I highly recommend that you contact a family-law or estate attorney in your state to see what they recommend. It would really be up to the court to determine whether or not any laws are being broken. Good luck!
Lizzy says
Hi my child is 13 yrs old and the person on the birth certificate is not the biological father. The biological father recently passed away. Both of these guys where in jail for for more then 10yrs. The (not biological father) knows he is not the biological father and knows who is her biological father. I recently got in contact with both of them. The biological one was starting to know his child. The other one (not the biological father) has agreed to give up his rights as the child father. Is there a way he can signed some papers with out the cost of lawyers involved? He has agreed to not be involved in my child’s life.
Identigene says
Hi, Lizzy. Because every state is different, I suggest you contact your state’s department of vital records to see what can be done.
lungi says
Hi my son is 8 years old now and for years I wanted to change his birth certificate but at home affairs I was told to came with both of them together with affidavit starting who is not and who is the biological father but my wish was also to do DNA fist even thought I see that the father is the one that is not in the birth certificate but I wanted to be 100% sure in order to make the same mistake I’m staying in kzn I don’t know if every where, the same procedure have to be done? I want to get over this and make it done as soon as possible. Will it cost me to much? Because the man I believe to me the biological father also wants his name to be put on the certificate.
Identigene says
Hi, Lungi. Please contact your state’s department of vital records to see what is required and how much it costs. Every state is different. Good luck!
Alex says
I had my name legally changed and my son requested to have the same last name as I do.
We went to court and the judge granted him to have my last name.
Now can both of our Names on His Birth Certificate be change?
Identigene says
Hi, Alex. Every state’s rules are different, so I suggest you contact your states Department of Vital Records and they’ll be able to tell you.
Isaac says
Hi, my name is Isaac. I have a thirteen year old step daughter who has my last name since birth. This is because i started dating the mother when she was pregnant to her and the father was no where to be found. Now i am married with the mother and has 3 kids in addition who are my real biological kids. My srep daughter never know that i am not her biological dad since i have been in her life since birth and playing a responsible dad role. Is it appropriate for me to tell her i am not her biological dad? And at what age am i legally obliged to let her know since i know it is going to affect her psychologically. Or i can decide to not inform her at all. She always tells everybody that i am her biological dad. Am confused help me out
Identigene says
Hi, Isaac. First of all, I commend you for stepping up and being there for your daughter…she’s a very lucky girl! We are a testing facility and not mental-health professionals, so I recommend that you consult with a counselor to determine what/when/how/you should tell your daughter about her biological parentage. You may also find resources online that can help you make a decision. Wishing you all the best!
ANNLEE says
Hi, my best friend has a situations where my god son is now 8 months old and she hasn’t placed fathers name on the birth certificate yet…however she and the real father would like to change her sons last name to his last name…which is the biological father and add his name to the birth certificate. what steps should she follow to do so…thanks in advance
Identigene says
Hi, Ann! Because every state has different rules, I recommend that you contact the department of vital statistics for your state to see what you need to do.
Carol says
My daughter is now 26 years old and my husband her father had just passed away in January we realize till this date that his name still has not been put on the birth certificate which was told to us many years ago that it would and now that we requested it we noticed that it was not put on till this day what do we need to do
Identigene says
Hi, Carol. My sincere condolences on the loss of your husband! Because every state has different rules, I recommend that you contact your state’s department of vital records. They’re the best ones to give you guidance. Good luck!
Jax says
My ex husband signed my son’s birth certificate knowing he was not the father. He tells me that he doesn’t want to even file taxes claiming him now, because he is not his. I was 8 months pregnant when we got together. I want to make sure my ex husband is off his certificate. What should I do. I was also told we can go to prison for lieing?
Identigene says
Hi, Jax. Because every state’s rules and processes are different, I highly recommend that you contact your state’s Department of Vital Statistics for advice on how to proceed. Good luck!
Jaliah says
I allowed my bf at the time to sign my daughter’s birth certificate because the biological father went MIA. Now that he’s back in the picture he wants full rights to his child but my bf does not want to. my question is, can I force my bf to go to court to take a DNA test or can he say no because he already signed the birth certificate?
Identigene says
Hi, Jaliah. Every state’s rules about changing names on the birth certificate are different. I suggest you contact your state’s Department of Vital Statistics for guidance on what you can do.
Takius M Luster says
Hi please help there is a guy on My daughters birth certificate he isnt the father her biological father want to be put on it and he last name changed to his.. I filled out a parent establishment form. Please help!!
Identigene says
Hi, Takius. I highly recommend that you contact a family-law attorney in your state to see what your options are. Every state’s rules about what can and can’t be done with birth certificates are different.
Jealena Jackson says
There is no father listed on my daughter’s birth certificate. Her biological father refuses a DNA test and refuses any type of legal rights to her, but will not sign any papers. He livea in a different state than i do(I live in Texas and he lives in California) and has not been heard from since she was 6 months old. I am currently married and my husband wants to be put on her birth certificate. My husband has been around since she was 4 montha old and she ia now 3 years old. How do i go about putting him on there?
Identigene says
Hi, Jealena. Every state has different rules and guidelines. I suggest you contact the Texas Department of Vital Statistics to see what you need to do, and I wish you all the best!
Anda Gankca says
Is it possible to change the mother on a child’s birth certificate
Identigene says
The name on the existing birth certificate can be changed to reflect a correction to a misspelling or if the mother had a legal name change. As for putting a whole different mother on the birth certificate, you’ll need to contact the Bureau of Vital Records in your state to see if that’s possible.
Joelle says
Soo.. when my grandmother gave birth to my dad (at a very young age) my grandfather at the time said he was not the father. in result my grandmother never put him down as the dad on the birth certificate (because she was pissed) and everyone knew he was the father, even him. Anyway, its been 40 years. We are First Nations and because of that, my dad and I are not statused (through my grandpas side) but we know he is that father, they look exactly alike especially when they were both younger. they are both still alive. so would it be just as easy as to go in and ask to have my grandfather put on the birth certificate? would we need blood tests? ive done everything possible to try and get us status. and this is our only option.
Identigene says
Hi, Joelle. Sounds like a painful situation! Since every state’s rules regarding birth certificates are different, I suggest you contact your state’s Department of Vital Records to see what they say. My educated guess, however, is that you would not be able to put his name on your birth certificate without his consent. Were your grandmother and grandfather married at the time your dad was born? If so, that could make a difference. Good luck!
Trice says
Hi, I’m trying to get the steps to change my child’s name on her birth certificate and add her father. I was separated from my ex husband and had a baby with my fiancé whom is the father of my child. Because I was legally married he was told in the hospital he was not able to sign the birth certificate and she has my formally married last name. She will start school soon and I will be married to her father soon and we want to change her name to her fathers and add him to the birth certificate. My ex husband does not object and knows my child isn’t his. We both had a child 8 days apart but he didn’t have to do anything different and signed his child with his now wife birth certificate. What do I do?
Identigene says
Hi, Trice. Every state’s rules about and procedures for this are different, so I suggest you contact your state’s Department of Vital Records to see what the process is. If you don’t get clear answers, a family-law attorney may be able to help. Good luck!
Jessica says
My brother met a girl that was 7 months pregnant and they got engaged but never married. We tried to take him out of sign the birth certificate but of course he listened to the girl he was dating as she promised if anything happened she would never file for support against him because she knew who the bio dad was but she didn’t want him to have anything to do with the baby because he was involved in drugs. Now that they have broke up and limits 2 years later she decided to file for child support against my brother even though she is dating and living with the bio dad. What can my brother do? They (state) now have him for over $8000 in back child support. Help plz!
Identigene says
Hi, Jessica. Your brother needs to contact a family-law attorney immediately.
Rajni says
My husband was died in 2013.now m get remarriage .i hv 11 year daughter .i want change her father name on her birth certificate. Plz help nd kindly send all imformation abt it.
Identigene says
HI, Rajni. If you live in the United States, you need to contact your state’s Department of Vital Records to see what the specific rules are where you live.
Lucero says
I have 2 kids there ther is on the birth certificate but hasnt been in there life what can i do
Identigene says
Lucero, if you have questions about changing a birth certificate that weren’t answered in this article, I highly recommend you contact your State’s Department of Vital Records.
Rosaura says
My question is that I want to remove my sons father name from he s birth certificate I live in San diego. He left us years ago and we don’t know anything about this men. Also I file a child support in Mexico because the last thing we know if he was in Mexico but still could not found him. I never married to this guy what are the steps to remove the father name from the birth certificate.
Identigene says
Hi, Rosaura. You would need to contact California’s Department of Vital Statistics: they are your best resource. Good luck!
mark says
Hello, I started dating girl who cut my hair. She did not tell me that she was married until after a couple of times that we were together. Supposedly, they lived in the same house but were not together, no sex, nothing. Separate rooms, cause he is very abusive, just in a bad relationship due to arrange marriage. So, after a couple of months we were not seeing each other anymore. She then calls me and tells me, she is pregnant and that I am the father. I been going to court trying to get visitation rights but since she is still married, her husband is presumed father. Judge did allow us to take DNA test and I am biological father but now I can’t get court to give any rights. All of the sudden presumed father is acting like her father and is not allowing baby’ mom to say anything or speak to me at all now. I believe that they are not leaving together anymore but still married. On his Facebook, looks like he has the kids with him. I don’t see baby’s mom’s name or pictures anywhere. What can I do? I miss my baby and want to be part of her life and be there for her. I really don’t want him in her life. I remember baby’s mom calling at 2:00/3:00 in the morning, crying telling he beat her again. And this was going on way before we met but she won’t call the cops or say anything. Please help
Identigene says
Hi, Mark. As a testing facility, we don’t provide legal services. You should consult with a family-law attorney to see if anything can be done. Good luck!
amanda says
hi my fiancee has a ex who said a 4 year almost 5 year old is his but she doesnt look like him, or the baby he just had with me. and he found out the mother was cheating on him the time she got pregnant and he was already back at living with his mom and dad. but hes on the childs birth certificate, is there a way he can get his name off of the birth certificate because he knows the child is not his and doesnt want anything to do with the child.?
Identigene says
Hi, Amanda. Paternity laws vary in each state, so he should contact your state’s Department of Vital Records to see if he has any options. He may also want to contact a family-law attorney. Since he’s on the child’s birth certificate, he’s definitely legally responsible for the child. Keep in mind that physical appearance and whether a child “looks” like her father or half-sibling is never an absolute determinant of paternity. Only a DNA can confirm a biological relationship.
Alex says
Hello,
I am 31 years old and just recently reconnected with my biological father after 30 years. We did a home DNA test and are still awaiting the results. If it shows he is my father can we add his name to my birth certificate (there is no father listed) without a legal DNA test? Since I am not a minor and neither one of us would be contesting paternity at that point I’m assuming it would just be lots of paperwork as opposed to a legal DNA test.
Thank you!
Identigene says
Hi, Alex. Every state’s rules about this can vary. I suggest you contact your state’s Department of Vital Records to get your answer. Because being on the birth certificate makes him your legal father, you would be entitled to receive any benefits as his heir. So my best guess is that you’ll need to do a legal test, even though you are not a minor.
Ira says
Hi. I was young when I had my two kids. I listed my then boyfriend (who has never been in USA, nor have a visa and never signed the birth certificates) as the father of my kids. I married my now husband two years after my second child was born. He wants to be in the birth certificates records as the listed father, since he is the only father my kids know. I tried to contact in Dominican Republic the listed father of my kids, but he wants nothing to do with them, and after years I think that purposely he want it that way, we lost contact. How can I get him removed from the kids birth certificate and have my now husband listed as the father? My kids were born in Florida where we actually still reside.
Thanks in advance.
Identigene says
Hi, Ira. It’s wonderful that your husband wants to be the legal father of your children! You’ll need to contact a family-law attorney in Florida to see what the process is there, or the Department of Vital Records. Seeing as the biological father is in the DR, that may complicate things a bit, which is why you may want to invest in a lawyer. Good luck!
Becky says
I got married when i was 20 years old when i got married i was 5 months pregnant with my little girl. Now that she is older she wants her biological dad name put on her birth certificate and so do i how would i go about getting a dna test done i live in utah and he is currently in prison in ohio?
Identigene says
Hi, Becky. You should first contact the Utah State Department of Vital Records to see what they advise.You should also contact the prison to see if they allow inmates to be tested for paternity. Does the presumed biological dad have other relatives who would be willing to test if the prison won’t allow him to be tested? A family-law attorney can also be a great resource for how to handle your particular situation. Good luck!
Junior says
Hello. My daughter’s mother never put me on the birth certificate. It has been 29 years and i want to have my name placed on my child’s BC. My child also wants this. How do we go about doing this?
Identigene says
Hi, Junior. Please contact your state’s Department of Vital Records to see what the process is for your state. They are your best resource for how to go about it where you live.
Suzanne says
Hi, my son is 9 years old, when I was in hospital after giving birth, his father did not sign his borth certificate because he did not have his ID on him. Me and him are no longer together and he is trying to keep my son since I let my son go to his house for the summer. I found out that he transferred my sons school records to a different school without my consent. I do know that since he did not sign birth certificate that he has no legal rights. Even if he did my son was born out of wedlock and we would have to go to court and have a paternity test done to establish paternity. My question is, can he get his name on my sons birth certificate without my knowledge or consent? Thanks in advance for any help!
Identigene says
No, he cannot. You are the child’s legal guardian. Sounds like you need to get a lawyer!
Tiffany Bell says
Hello, my childrens fathers never signed there birth certificates. But i have DNA tests done so i know who there bio father is. so can my boyfriend just sign there birth certificates to make him there father since there bio fathers want nothing to do with them?
Identigene says
Hi, Tiffany. You’ll need to contact your state’s Department of Vital Records to see what your state’s rules are about signing birth certificates. Paternity-law varies from state to state.
Stef says
My son’s father passed away soon after he was born. I’ve already had a grandparentage DNA done for his Social Security benefits. Will I be able to take those results to have his father’s name added myself. So far everything I’ve found requires a signature from both parents, but I need to know what I can do if there is anything I can do since he only has 1 living parent. Please help.
Stef says
*Will I be able to add my son’s father to his birth certificate?
Identigene says
Hi, Stef. Your state’s Department of Vital Records will be able to tell you what needs to be done. I’m sorry for your loss!
Stephanie says
I am 26 years old and I am getting married and i would like to ask my sister’s dad to adopt me and legally be my dad. I don’t know my biological father but technically i do not have one since i don’t have a father on my birth certificate the only parent on it is my mom. so I was wondering what I need to do to get my sister’s dad name on my birth certificate and legally be my dad. like what paperwork or who do i talk to to get this going or where do i go?
Identigene says
Hi, Stephanie. Congratulations on your upcoming wedding! Because every state’s different, you should talk to the State Department of Vital Records for the state in which you live to see what is required.
Jocy says
Hi, when I was born, my father was not in the U.S. I do have his lastname but he is not on my birth certificate. He is now in Mexico and is unable to come to the U.S. What can I do so his name can appear on my birth certificate ?
Identigene says
Hi, Jocy. Because every state’s different, you need to contact your state’s Department of Vital Records to see what can be done. Good luck!
Matika says
My child father took a DNA test back in 2012 dose this mean he is on the birth certificate. And can I have my boyfriend sign her birth certificate
Identigene says
Hi, Matika. Names are not automatically placed on birth certificates; signatures are required. You should contact your state’s Department of Vital Records with questions about your child’s certificate.
richie says
hey my ex girlfriend an i where messing around and she got pregnant she told me it wasn’t mines until the baby was 6 months we agreed to do a home dna test results came back 99.9 percent mines the other guy signed the birth certificate and now we both agreed that my name should be on there I’ve stepped in an have been taking care of her since she was 1 she’s 3 now
Identigene says
Hi, Richie. You need to contact your state’s Department of Vital Records to see what you need to do to change the birth certificate.
Mark says
Hello, A woman whom I slept with got pregnant and at the time there were 4 different potential fathers. I was told by her during the pregnancy and after the baby was born that I was not the father. The birth certificate has another mans name on it whom she was in a relationship with at the time. She also had a bad drug problem during the pregnancy and I believe I was told I wasn’t the father because I would have taken custody of the child. I was told, AGAIN, 2 years after the child was born that it really wasn’t my child. The child is now 5 years old and this woman is saying she believes I am the biological father and she wants to take a DNA test. I am now in a relationship with someone else and we have a young boy at home. I believe that since the other woman is now clean, that she wants to finally tell me the truth. Do I have any options in denying her request? I believe it isn’t really fair to just say now I believe you are the father because she is through her addiction and knows I am a good person. I have missed out on the most important years of the childs life and this other woman is now married to a different man then is on the birth certificate. Isnt it unfair to the child to just change things up like this? No im not a deadbeat dad, I just don’t believe that a woman can decide when she wants someone to be a father and when she doesn’t. Please help living in Maryland
Identigene says
Hi, Mark. You are not obligated to do anything unless she takes the issue to court. If she does, then you should retain a family-law attorney who’s experienced in paternity law. If she does take you to court and they order a DNA test, if you refuse, chances are good that they would name you the father.
Echo says
I’m 35 years old and my mother did not have my father sign the birth certificate I need to add him on my birth certificate how do I go about doing that and do I need to have my mother with me when I add him on there..
Identigene says
Hi, Echo. Please call your state’s Department of Vital Records for instructions on how to do this where you live.
Vern says
I took a prenatal paternity test for which I did not receive physical results but a phone call with the results, which told me I was the biological father. The child is now 5 months old and I am on his birth certificate, I recently took a paternity tes, and the results of that test determined I am NOT the biological father. I have consulted with a lawyer to find out what to do. but we haven’t gotten far in the process. I want my name off the birth certificate and but the mother does not 100% believe the test I took is correct considering the first test said I am the father. she has a idea of who the biological father could be and refuses to speak to him. any advice you could offer on this would be appreciated. additionally I am married as of a week ago (my wife has been with me since before the birth of the child and is just as confused as I am) we don’t want to have the responsibility of a kid that isn’t mine.
Vern says
also no custody agreement or child support agreement has been issued or established, thus far I have just act as the father until I found out I am not the biological father.
Identigene says
Hi, Vern. It sounds as if you need the advice of a good family-law attorney in your area. Good luck!
Shweta says
I wanted to change my father’s name from rajesh to Raju on my birth certificate.
Identigene says
Hi, Shweta. You should contact the Department of Vital Records where you live to get their direction on how to do it.
Tilly says
What happens if you know who the father is but lied when you register your child and said you don’t know who he is?
Identigene says
Hi, Tilly. That’s a great question for a family-law attorney.
jim says
I have a question, my GF had a kid, and got married with some other girl, and raised her child with this person, this other girl is on the birth certificate , they are now divorce , so I wanna know if it would be easy to take her off the birth certificate since there’s no DNA with the other chick, he was an abusive girl so we don’t want of her in our relationship or the child, will it be possible for me to add me on there or what steps must I take, this child was given by a sperm donor to my gf
Identigene says
Hi, Jim. Please contact your state’s Department of Vital Statistics for directions. Thanks!
Ariel says
So at the time my son was conceived, i was actually in the midst of seeing 2 men. I had found out i was pregnant and gave birth to my son. However, i don’t think the father on the birth certificate is actually his father, however he signed the declaration of paternity and we are raising him together (he doesn’t know that there was another potential party that may have been involved in the birth of my son). We are not seeing eye to eye on a lot of things and the relationship is not working out. How do i go about getting full custody of my son? I really do not think he is the father but I’m not sure what to do…
Identigene says
Hi, Ariel. That is a legal question that, as a science lab, we’re not qualified to give advice for. Please contact a family-law attorney in your area. Good luck!
Confused says
Hey y’all!
My bf ex wife is trying to give her child with another man (that’s not involved) his last name. He doesn’t consent to it, however she didn’t change her name when they divorced. Is it legal for her to do that when the DNA will show it’s not his and he won’t consent? I have a feeling she’s up to something.
Identigene says
Hi, Confused. If your best friend and his ex were not married at the time the child was conceived, then he is not legally responsible for this child, which is the most important part. The last name she gives the child is not as relevant. If he’s worried she may try to corral him into paying support by giving the child his last name, then he should consult with a family-law attorney.
Freddie says
Hi my name is Freddie, I have a question and need help……. I dated this woman 6 plus years back, I’m married and my wife know the whole situation before we got married in regards to this child situation…. The kid is now 6 years old and this woman is trying to put me on child support but the kid has her boyfriend/husband last name and he’s on the birth certificate as the father since birth?????………… We live in Dallas Texas and I was wondering am I legally liable for this child since this guy signed the birth certificate 6 years ago and they said from day one that the kid isn’t mine?????
Identigene says
Hi, Freddie. You’ll need to contact a family-law attorney in Texas, because every state has different rules and best-practices when it comes to paternity law. But since your ex’s husband has already taken legal responsibility for the child, so far things are in your favor.
Juliana says
Hello! My name is Juliana, I’m 21 years old. My father never signed my birth certificate. I do have my last name and he is my biological father, but my stepdad is really this one that has always been there. I visited my dad every now and then, he’s a good guy..I do love him, he’s my dad. But I’d really like to somehow get my stepdads name on my birth certificate. I’m not looking to have him adopt me (plus I’m 21, I don’t even know if that’s a thing at this point lol)..and I also don’t want to change my last name. I feel like those things would publicly hurt my bio father, and I don’t want to do that. I just didnt know if there was some way I can have him put on my birth certificate, since it does not list a father. Thank you in advance!
Identigene says
Hi, Juliana. I highly recommend that you contact your state’s Department of Vital Records to see if what you want to do is possible and how to go about it. Your stepdad sounds like a great guy…you’re both very lucky to have a loving relationship. Good luck!
Willie says
hey, i’ve just been notified 9 years after my daughter was born that i am allegedly the Father. i am not on the birth certificate as the presumed father was listed when the child was born. i assume they aren’t together anymore and that he found out that the child is not his or he doesn’t think the child is his anymore. Now she’s coming to me to see if the child is mine to acquire child support and of course change over to make me the legal Father of the child. Now i am wondering how this works as i believe her sole intentions have be to get money out of me, as i’ve recently became successful. when i take the dna test and if i am the father legally what am i obligated to do.
Identigene says
Hi, Willie. Paternity law varies from state to state and so I recommend contacting a family-law attorney to get legal advice before agreeing to any testing.
Lynette says
Hi my son is 13 YRS now when I had him I was with a man who I thought. Was the father.about 2 YRS later I had a DNA taken not a home test and it showed he was not the father.he’s on the birth certificate but never signed before being put on it.I went to court and it shows he’s not legally supposed to be on it.now the biological father which the DNA TEST CAME UP 99.9% just recently past away.I’ve never received child support and would like to have his name on the certificate so I can receive his social security.I have his death certificate and DNA.HOW DO I DO THIS? PLEASE HELP
Identigene says
Hi, Lynette. Please contact your state’s Department of Vital Records and also a family-law attorney specializing in inheritance law where you live. They will be able to best advise you. Good luck!
Desiree says
Hello I’m from Florida , after recently completing an ancestry test I discovered that my mother’s husband is not my biological father. His name is listed on my birth certificate and my mother gave me his last name . My biological father is now deceased , but through the test I have meet multiple siblings . How do I go about legally changing my last name and birth certificate to my biological father’s name ,with him being deceased ?
Identigene says
Hi, Desiree. Contact your state’s Department of Vital Records for direction. Every state’s different!
Crystal says
Hi, I’m from Arizona I was dating someone when I had my daughter she is a year old now. I thought the guy I was dating was her father but a DNA test showed that he was not the father. I already put my boyfriend’s name on the birth certificate and also gave my daughter his last night. Now the biological father now wants the last name changed and his name as father on the birth certificate what steps do I have to take to get the birth certificate changed correctly? And DNA has been done on the biological father to show he is the father. Thank you
Identigene says
Hi, Crystal. Because the exact process varies from state to state, I suggest you contact the Department of Vital Records for Arizona and see what they recommend.
Masoud says
Hi I just recently found out that my ex girl friend may had a baby and I am the dad
How can I for sure find out ?
Identigene says
Hi, Masoud. A DNA paternity test would answer that question for you. You can find out more here on this website at DNAtesting.com.
sassyfrass says
My husband wants to adopt my son, my ex is on his birth certificate, my son has no contact with my ex and we want to take him off the certificate. Is there any way to do that?
I am curious about a Grandparent DNA Test, if a paternity test is really needed to change name and adopt?
Identigene says
Hi, Sassy. I would contact your state’s Department of Vital Records to see what their requirements are for changing the birth certificate. As for a grandparent DNA test, Identigene’s parent company, DDC, performs these all the time, both for peace of mind and for legal purposes. For more information, feel free to call us at 800-681-7162.
Bruna says
I have a question… There was a guy that I was seeing for a while and I got the news that I was pregnant and once the baby was born he signed the birth certificate. Months later we did a DNA test and he is not the biological father. How do I remove his last name and remove his name from the birth certificate?
Identigene says
Hi, Bruna. You would need to contact your local Department of Vital Records or similar government agency to see what the requirements are where you live.
Susan says
Is it possible there could be a false reading when only saliva is collected on both the child and the parent? There were six saliva swabs on the child and three on the father.
Identigene says
If you used an accredited lab, Susan, you can be sure the results were correct for the samples the lab was given.
Tori says
My divorce was not final at the time my daughter was born and she has my legal last name which is my ex husbands last name and its not his child. We are getting her name changed too her daddy’s last name. Will we be able to get her birth certificate changed too her dads last name and place him on the birth certificate?
Identigene says
Hi, Tori. That is a question best answered by your state’s Department of Vital Records. Not all states’ rules about this are the same.
Aleisha says
I have a 3 year old daugther her last name is my legal husband last name because I hadher while I waslegally married which I still Iam but now her biological dad wants herto have his last name an he wants to appear in the birth certificate what can I do ?
Identigene says
Hi, Aleisha. Have you had a paternity test done with the man who thinks he’s the biological father? Were you married at the time of conception? These are all things to consider. Meanwhile, I suggest you call your state’s Department of Vital Records or a family-law attorney to see what the laws are about this kind of thing in your state. Good luck!
Alicia says
Hi My husband is being put on child support for a child that is not his. he signed the birth certificate when he was born, thinking the baby was his but to find out she cheated on him, the baby is mixed. my husband is mexican and the girl is white. my husband and i have 3 kids of our own.plus he his paying child support for 2 other kids from a previous marriage.. this child is all ready 13 years old. What can we do to get his name off the birth certificate. in the state of Michigan?
Identigene says
Hi, Alicia. You didn’t mention whether or not a DNA test was performed to see if the child is indeed his or not. Regardless, chances are, since your husband already accepted legal responsibility for the child, that the court would not cancel his child support, even if DNA testing proves the child isn’t his. Since paternity law varies from state to state, this may be a question best answered by a Michigan family-law attorney. Good luck!
Lee says
Hello,
My story is a bit more complex. I am a grown man and the birth certificate I would like to change is my own. My mother was not married to my biological father when I was born. Faced with the choice of having her ex husband or illegitimate on my birth certificate. She chose to put her ex husband. My biological father died a year after I was born. I want my birth certificate to be right. I am in contact with my half sister from my biological dad and his first wife. She said she would be willing to do a test to prove we have the same father. Is this possible? Would it be admissible in court if it was? Im changing my name regardless but i want to be his legitimate son. Any help you could offer would be greatly appreciated.
Identigene says
Hi, Lee. Your chances of getting conclusive results are much greater if one or both mothers would also be willing to contribute their DNA because it’s hard to know exactly how much DNA you and your half-sister would share. For court-admissible results, you cannot collect your DNA at home; you need to arrange for a witnessed, legal test near you. I suggest you give us a direct call at 800-681-7162 to discuss your options and order the test, should you decide you want to go ahead. Good luck!
Kevin says
Hi, 2 years ago I had a child with my ex girlfriend. Since we separate we haven’t had a good parent relationship. She started dating someone else and she is planning to marry that guy. Also she told me that she will make that guy legally my son’s father. I don’t want to loose my son and I am totally scared about it. Is possible that she actually could change my son’s last name and erase me from my legal rights as a father?
Identigene says
Hi, Kevin. You didn’t mention whether or not you are on the birth certificate or signed an acknowledgment of paternity. If you already don’t have any legal rights to the child, you’d better contact a family-law attorney where you live right away for legal advice.
Linda says
Hello I had a baby with my ex husband he left the country so I put the father of my first 2 Kids. But I want to remove it does the baby need a dna test to prove to remove the fathers of my first 2 Kids?
Identigene says
Hi, Linda. Paternity law varies from state to state, so you should ask either your state’s Department of Vital Records of a family-law attorney where you live.
mika says
Hello,
My name is Mika, and my son’s father just got approved for disability. He is due a back payment but his name is not on my son’s birth certificated. My son is 19 yrs.old. Is there anything I can do to get his name on his birth certificate so that he can draw his backpay benefits?
Identigene says
Hi, Mika. That’s a question best answered by your state’s Department of Vital Records of a family-law attorney.
Farron says
Hi, I have an issue that I did not put a fathers name on the birth certificate. I was married at the time but it was an arranged marriage. He has already been deemed not the father so his name was ruled out. I am now remarried and my daughter is dying for my husband to adopt her and have the same last name. I am curious to know if I could simply add him to her birth certificate if we both agree, change my last name since we are now married and update her last name. I was just wondering if we both agree and understand that he would be taking on a lifetime commitment is it possible to add him without a DNA test and to avoid the costly adoption process… Is this legal. Also she was born in Florida. So the Certificate is a Florida Certificate and we now live in South Carolina. Please someone help answer this question for me? Also the bio dad is no where to be found so I can’t even request a paternity test or rights to be given up even if I wanted to. But as it stands no name on certificate and I have tried to find the bio dad many many years and can’t find him. So please tell me is my situation easier than it seems? Also if I fill out the acknowledgment of paternity form for Florida can I avoid the DNA test? I just simply fill out the form and turn it in? Or do I have to actually go through an adoption process. If so any advice on that too will be taken into consideration as well. Thank you so so much!
Identigene says
Hi, Farron. Because of the amount of variables in your question, this page’s position is to suggest you contact a family-law attorney in South Carolina to see what your best options are. Perhaps someone here in the online community can help answer your question too. Good luck!
Farron says
Oh I also have one other question. I myself have been raised my WHOLE LIFE by a man who was not my bio dad. I have no one attached to my biologically and do not know my bio dad… I want my step dad to legally be on my birth certificate. I am curious to know can I just simply add him. Pretty much the same scenario as my child as well. No fathers name is on my birth certificate. Can I simply add him to my certificate?
Catherine says
Hi,
I have 11month old daughter who has my husband’s surname because when I gave birth it was my husband who was there to help me and her biological father was out of the country. Now that her biological father is back he wanted my daughter to have his surname instead of my husband. What to do?? How can I change her surname from my husband to her biological dad. A bunch of thanks in advance
Identigene says
Hi, Catherine. If you were married at the time the baby was born, then your husband is considered the legal father of the child, no matter who the biological father is. You’ll need to contact your state’s Department of Vital Records for the answer to your question or, if you don’t live in the US, you should contact a family-law attorney.
Jasmine says
Hi I’m dating someone who wants to be on the birth certificate but he is not the real father of things don’t go well is there any way I can change back with his permission?
Identigene says
Hi, Jamine. You should get the advice of a social worker or family-law attorney to see what’s in the best interest of you and your child’s futures.
Jerianne says
On my sons birth certificate, another man signed as the father. I got a DNA test done through the state because his real father died about a year ago. We have this documentation that he is 99.999999998% the father of the man who died. How do we change the birth certificate on a man who died?
Identigene says
Hi, Jerianne. This is a question best answered by your state’s Department of Vital Records. Also, keep in mind that if the paternity test for the man who died was not a legal one, results cannot be used as proof of relationship.
Colton says
hi i was just wondering if a man is put on the birth certificate and it is found he isnt the biological father is there ways to fight for the non biological to stay on there instead of the biological father being put it. Thank you
Identigene says
If a man on the birth certificate is determined not to be the biological father via DNA, it’s entirely up to the court’s discretion whether or not the man can still remain the child’s legal father. A good family-law attorney in your area is a good resource for details.
Jennifer says
My daughter is 2 months old and we finally got our results back and he is her father but he did not sign the birth certificate. We went through child support enforcement for DNA. Is he now automatically added to her BC or gain any rights of her? Or do we add him yourself? We resided in Illinois.
HomeDNA Identigene says
Hi, Jennifer. You’ll need to contact the Illinois Department of Vital Records for the answer to your question. That’s the best place to start!
Kimmy says
If a guy signs the birth certificate and hes not the father and decided not to take responsibility how can i take him off the birth certificate especially if i dont want him on it anymore
HomeDNA Identigene says
Hi, Kimmy. The best place for you to start getting answers is your state’s Department of Vital Records.
ellen says
i am 57 years old and was adopted by my mothers 2nd marriage. they printed in the local paper but my real father wasn’t in town and didn’t know. i was told he died(real father). not quite true as we have a very strong bond and i want my original name back. my father wants a paternity test . the man listed on my bc is dead and has been for twenty years. he was cruel and is one reason i am disabled. how can this be reversed
HomeDNA Identigene says
Hi, Ellen. If your alleged birth father is willing to test with you, then why not do so, since you are both consenting adults? Just make sure you get a legal paternity test so that results can be court-admissible. Identigene can arrange that type of test for you; we do it all the time. Before doing anything, you may want to contact your state’s Department of Vital Records to see if anything else other than DNA evidence is required for changing your birth certificate.
Leeanna says
So I found out I was pregnant before I got married. My daughter is 16 months old currently. We just found out that the man I married wasn’t her father. Am I able to change her last name to her real fathers last name? I do have a DNA test to prove that my current husband isn’t the father. Me and my current husband are filing for a divorce.
HomeDNA Identigene says
Hi, Leeanna. Since your soon-to-be-ex-husband is on the birth certificate, that’s a question best answered by a family-law attorney and/or your state’s Department of Vital Records.
Jennifer says
Hello. I was married but over 5 years separated when I got pregnant with my daughter. He was automatically on her BC as father but took a paternity test and was NOT the father. Her real dad has been here since say one and doesn’t question paternity. He just wants her last name to be his and to be on her BC. Anyone know the steps?
HomeDNA Identigene says
Hi, Jennifer. Start with calling your state’s Department of Vital Records. You may need to hire a family-law attorney. Good luck!
Jennifer says
Ok so my son and future daughter in law had a little girl who is one now. My son is 22 and has always wanted his last name changed to my husband’s because that is who raised him. He even has my husband’s last name tattoo on his arm. They named their daughter’s last name after my husband’s knowing that my son was eventually going to legally change his last name. Unfortunately he did not change it before signing the birth certificate. Kind of funny their daughter’s last name doesn’t match either of theirs on the birth certificate. So now that my son actually finally changed his last name legally how can they change it on their daughter’s birth certificate? There is no questions about paternity.
HomeDNA Identigene says
Hi, Jennifer. I think the best place to start is with your state’s Department of Vital Records. Good luck!
James says
I am 32 years old and recently found out my biological father is not the guy on my birth certificate. Both he and my biological father are deceased. I love my dad but I don’t want to live a lie. Is it possible to get this fixed?
HomeDNA Identigene says
Hi, James. You’ll need to contact your state’s Department of Vital Records…they would be your best resource.
James says
I have never heard of that department. What is their purpose? I’ll try to locate them.
HomeDNA Identigene says
Among other things, they handle changes in birth certificates.
Sasha says
I am 26 years of age. My father’s name was never placed on my birth certificate. My father states that my mother cheated. However, I do carry his last name. If I wanted to get his name on my birth certificate would a paternity test be required?
HomeDNA Identigene says
Hi, Sasha. Yes, and it would most likely require a legal (witnessed) paternity test so that results can be court-admissible.
Sandra says
Hi, i was born in 1971 & my mother decided to put her x husband down as my father on my birth cert.and my real father passed away in 1999. I have his ashes and some items he left. How would i go about proving who my real father is & have him listed on birth certificate?
Also would like to have my mother removed !
HomeDNA Identigene says
Hi, Sandra. That’s a question best answered by your state’s Department of Vital Records, or a family-law attorney.
Raymond says
I have a daughter who is 34 and i was not put on birth certificate. Is there a way for me to be added without DNA test.she was born in another state.
HomeDNA Identigene says
Hello, Raymond. You’d need to check with that state’s Department of Vital Records. But nowadays, most states require a DNA test.
TAMMY says
In 1985 in SC i did not want the father added to the birth certificate and the hospital told me i have to add someone i was recently divorced and got pregnant while i was still married they told me my ex husband had to be listed as the father.. I remember arguing with them telling them he was not the father and I gave the baby a different last name that his.. years later it was forgotten until my now 33 year old child need an original copy and say who was listed on the certificate..Surprise!!! nightmare.. All parties know who is the actual father but how do we get that changed? I have contacted an attorney but my question is was the hospital wrong in adding my ex husband to the birth certificate???
HomeDNA Identigene says
Hi, Tammy. That may have been the law or at least common practice for hospitals in South Carolina in 1985. Paternity law varies from state to state and from decade to decade…this is another question your attorney can probably best answer for you.
Kelly says
My husband signed the birth certificate when my daughter was born but he is not the father. I did however get a paternity test done a few days after she was born with her biological father. She is now 7, my husband and I are divorced and he doesn’t want to pay child support or help with her any longer. How would I get her biological father to sign the birth certificate, or is that even possible.
Indianapolis IN
HomeDNA Identigene says
Hi, Kelly. Your ex-husband is still on the hook for child support. If you want to make changes, you’ll need to contact a family-law attorney.
Mindy says
My sons father has used his step fathers last name, (as apposed to his legal last name) on my sons birth certificate (i was unaware that it wasnt his legal last name and knew no different) . Does that strip him of any rights and is it fraud?
HomeDNA Identigene says
Hi, Mindy. That is a very good question for your state’s Department of Vital Records or for a family-law attorney.
Donna says
I’m grandma, I have been raising my granddaughter for 7 years since she came home from the hospital. Her mother is a harrion addict she has named the wrong guy on the birth certificate and now she is almost 7 and there is another possible father she will be 7 I get no help from anyone but this child need her father bc her mom really don’t care ..
HomeDNA Identigene says
Hi, Donna. If you are a legal guardian of the child, you could authorize her to participate in a paternity test with the other possible father.
Phani says
Dear Sir
Me and my wife are now living seperately and our case is goingon in the court, my question is in my absence or without my concern / signature can my wife change their names and can obtain a birth certificate now, as we had already registered their names in the Municipal Records of Hyderabad
Is there any options to her to do like that
Kindly Suggest me
Waiting with Anticipation
Thank You Sir
HomeDNA Identigene says
Hello, Phani. This is a question best answered by a family-law attorney where you live.
Charissa says
I was wondering if you could answer a question? My husband was dating a woman for almost 3 years and she got pregnant while they were together. My husband had proof that she cheated around the time she got pregnant. It has been 5 years since the child was born. She had her now husband (fiance at the time) sign the birth certificate. She just petitioned my husband for a paternity test even though the now husband signed the affidavit of paternity. Does he have any legal obligation since the other man signed?
HomeDNA Identigene says
Hi, Charissa. That is a question best answered by a family-law attorney in your area, since states can have varying laws.
Kimberly says
My child 11 the man who signed her brith certificate not her father how can I change it to her real father name on her brith certificate
HomeDNA Identigene says
Hi, Kimberly. After you’ve read this article for basic guidance, I suggest you contact the Arkansas Department of Vital Records to see what your next steps are.