Michigan Birth Records

The systematic recording of birth records in Michigan began on April 5, 1867, when the state mandated cities and townships to conduct annual assessments of births and deaths. This initiative created a comprehensive registry for vital events, including birth records, within the state. Michigan birth records serve as official documentation of an individual's birth. Michigan offers long-form and short-form birth certificates.

The long-form birth certificates are the full-size, official copies of the birth records as originally filed with the state. This document includes detailed information, such as full name of the individual, date and place of birth, gender, birth weight, parental information, signature of the attending physician, and issuing authority seal. The long-form birth certificate is used when applying for a passport, obtaining state-issued identification, or any court-related matters.

The short-form birth certificate is an abbreviated version of the long-form certificate. It is an abstract or summary of the birth record, which typically includes the name of the record holder, date of birth, and place of birth but excludes detailed parental information, signatures, file numbers, and filing dates. Due to these omissions, short-form birth certificates may not be accepted for all legal purposes, such as obtaining a passport or driver's license.

Birth records in Michigan may also be certified copies or verified copies. A certified copy of a birth record is an official document printed on special security paper and contains a raised, embossed seal. Certified birth records are suitable for all legal purposes. A birth verification record is a document that confirms the existence of a birth record without providing detailed information. Verification of birth records includes basic details of the registrant, such as the name, date of birth, and county of birth. It is typically used for informational purposes or preliminary verification where a certified copy is not required.

How To Order a Michigan Birth Certificate?

You may order certified copies of Michigan birth certificates from 1867 to date from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). Complete the Application for a Certified Copy - Michigan Birth Record form, including relevant information such as the name on the birth record, date of birth, parents' information, and purpose of the request. All applications must include photocopies of an approved ID and the fees. Certified birth records cost $34 for birth records 64 years and under and $14 for seniors 65 and older ordering their birth records. Mail the completed documents to:

Birth records are also accessible in the county where the birth was recorded. In Michigan, County Clerks maintain records from the year their county was established. The initial registration year differs across the state. You may request the record by checking the county's official website and completing the relevant application form or filling out the form in person at the County Clerk's Office. All requests may include a copy of a valid ID and the fees. Fees differ per county, but expect to pay up to $20 to order the record.

For births before 1867, you may need to consult local archives. The Michigan State Archives holds historical birth records, which is a great resource for genealogical research.

Are Birth Records Public in Michigan?

No. Birth records are not public information in Michigan. Birth records are confidential and subject to strict access to protect individual privacy. The state regulates who may obtain copies of birth certificates, primarily restricting access to certain persons, typically relatives and legal representatives. However, per state law, birth records become available after a certain number of years.

Who Can Order A Birth Certificate in Michigan?

In Michigan, birth records are closed to the public to protect privacy. According to state law, only specific individuals are authorized to request a certified copy of a birth certificate. These eligible persons include:

• The individual named on the record
• The parents named on the birth record
• Legal guardians with proof of guardianship
• Legal representatives with letter of representation
• Heir of the deceased
• Persons with a court order

How Long Does it Take to Get A Michigan Birth Certificate?

The standard processing time for mailed requests for Michigan birth records from the MDHHS office is 4 to 6 weeks. They offer expedited "Rush" processing, which takes 2 to 3 weeks. Both processing times exclude the mail transit time.

The processing time for mail requests at the County Clerk's Office varies by county. Generally, processing time may take between 2 to 10 days. Many County Clerk's Offices provide same-day service for in-person requests.

Where Can I Find Michigan Birth Records for Free?

Accessing Michigan birth records for free can be challenging, especially for non-authorized individuals. However, informational copies and genealogical data are accessible for free through various resources. The National Vital Records Archives provides resources for genealogical research. They offer guidance on where to locate vital records, including Michigan birth records. FamilySearch.org is a free service with a large database of genealogical records, including birth records. Similarly, Ancestry.com, although a subscription-based service, provides access to a database of birth records between 1867 and 1911.

Additionally, some third-party websites, like PublicRecords.us, aggregate data from multiple sources, making them available to the public. However, third-party platforms provide only basic information about the birth record for free. Access to detailed information may require a subscription and fees.

When Would I Need My Michigan Birth Records?

Michigan birth records are official documents that prove who you are. Your Michigan birth records are important for various reasons, including:

• Applying for a passport or government ID
• Verify your eligibility for government benefits such as Social Security or Medicare
• Verify your identity for employment purposes
• Prove your identity when applying for marriage licenses
• Applying for immigration benefits or traveling internationally
• Legal and inheritance matters
• Confirm your age and identity during school enrollment

How Much is A Replacement Birth Certificate in Michigan?

If your birth certificate is destroyed, damaged, missing, or lost, you might need to get a replacement birth certificate. Replacing your birth record is important, as it serves as proof of your identity and may be required for legal and financial purposes.

The steps involved in getting a replacement birth certificate are the same as ordering a birth record. Begin the process by downloading and completing the birth certificate application form. Gather all the relevant documents, including proof of identity and supporting documents, that can verify your information. Mail the application form and fees to the MDHHS or the County Clerk's Office. It costs $34 to replace your birth record with the MDHHS and between $15 to $25 at the County Clerk's Office.

When Can the Public Access Michigan Birth Certificates?

Birth certificates are not considered public records in Michigan; only authorized personnel may order certified copies. However, once birth records reach a certain age, they become public records in the state. According to Michigan law, birth records become open to the public after 100 years. Per the law, birth records less than 100 years old are confidential. Nonetheless, birth records older than 100 years may be accessed by anyone.

How To Correct an Error on a Michigan Birth Certificate?

You can correct mistakes on birth records, such as spelling errors, data entry errors, and minor errors in recording parents' information. To correct your birth record, reach out to the County Clerk's Office where your birth was originally recorded. They will guide you on the specific forms and procedures to correct the error.

You may also correct the birth certificate at the MDHHS. To correct the record, complete the appropriate Correct a Birth Record form. You may use the Correct a Record FAQ to guide you when completing the form. All requests to correct errors on a Michigan birth record must include documents that support your correction request, valid identification, and fees. The fees vary by county, usually from $10 to $50.

Does Michigan Provide Non-binary Birth Certificates?

Yes. Michigan allows residents to change the gender marker on their birth certificates to reflect their gender identity, including non-binary designation. Michigan House of Representatives passed House Bill 5301 aimed at codifying the ability to have your gender markers on official documents, including birth certificates, changed. The bill further sought to formalize the inclusion of a non-binary "X" designation on such documents. Therefore, Michigan residents may apply to get their gender designation changed from Male (M) or Female (F) to Non-binary (X) on their birth record.