So You Want a New Name, Fancy Pants? How to Change Your Birth Certificate in Michigan
Let's face it, the name your parents saddled you with in that bleary-eyed post-delivery haze might not exactly reflect the glorious being you've become. Maybe you're tired of explaining Brenda the Bookkeeper isn't actually who you are (Brenda, this doesn't apply to you, honey). Or perhaps you've finally chosen a name that strikes fear into the hearts of evildoers (Fearmonger McJustice? Just spitballing here). Whatever your reason, here's the down-low on changing your birth certificate in the great state of Michigan.
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| How To Change Name On Birth Certificate In Michigan |
First Things First: The Paper Chase
You're going to need some ammo for this bureaucratic battle. Gather your trusty steed (your car, not a literal horse) and prepare to venture forth for the following:
An Application to Correct or Change a Michigan Birth Record: This magical document can be found online at the Department of Health and Human Services website, or by calling them at 517-335-8660. Bonus points if you can tame the urge to write "birth certificate name change form" in giant glitter pen across it.
Proof You're Not a Name-Stealing Supervillain: A copy of your government-issued photo ID will do the trick.
Evidence You're Not Just Having a Midlife Nickname Crisis: Here's where things get interesting. If you have a court order for a legal name change, that's your golden ticket. But if not, you'll need two dated documents (think driver's licenses, passports, old report cards with a cool teacher's nickname) proving you've used your new name for a while. Five years is the sweet spot, but for name changes close to your birth date, you might need something a little more vintage.
Sending it Off: Aim for the Bullseye (or Maybe Just the Right Mailbox)
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Once you've assembled your paperwork army, send it off to:
Vital Records Changes
P.O. Box 30721
Lansing, MI 48909
Don't forget to include a check or money order for the filing fee (it's a cool $50).
The Waiting Game: Or How to Not Refresh Your Email Every 5 Seconds
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The good folks at Vital Records will take 5-6 weeks to process your request, unless you pay extra for the rush service (cuts it down to 2-3 weeks). In the meantime, channel your impatience into perfecting your new signature (no pressure, but a name like Fearmonger McJustice deserves a flourish).
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FAQ: Name Change Edition
How to I know if I can change my name on my birth certificate?
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Simple! If you have a court order for a legal name change, you're good to go. Otherwise, you'll need to provide proof you've used your new name for a while.
How much does it cost to change my name on my birth certificate?
The basic filing fee is $50, but you can pay extra for rush service.
How long does it take to change my name on my birth certificate?
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It usually takes 5-6 weeks, but you can pay extra for it to be done in 2-3 weeks.
How many copies of my new birth certificate can I order?
You can order as many as you like, but there's an additional fee for each one.
How do I make sure my cat doesn't judge my new name?
Well, that one's on you. But hey, at least you'll have a cool new birth certificate!
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