Should You Establish Paternity?

This is a quick summary of the steps to complete the form:

• The hospital will review the affidavit with you and answer any questions you have.
• Both parents must have a valid photo ID and social security number (if you have one).
• Both the mother and the father sign the same form in front of hospital staff.
• The hospital staff will witness that neither parent is being forced to sign the form.
• Hospital staff will notarize it and send it to the Office of Vital Records with the birth certificate record.

Parents can also fill out a Paternity Acknowledgment Affidavit later at the State Office of Vital Records or their local Vital Records office. There is a $27 fee to complete the form at Vital Records (a $12 birth certificate search fee and a $15 amendment fee).

What if I change my mind later?

Parents should think carefully before establishing paternity. If you do change your mind, you have 60 days to rescind (cancel) the paternity acknowledgment. However, a court order is required to remove the man’s name from the birth certificate.