"HEALTH DEPARTMENT INCREASES CHARGES FOR CERTIFIED BIRTH & DEATH CERTIFICATE COPIES"
The Henry & Stark County Health Departments wish to remind area parents that certified copies of birth certificates for children born in Henry County since 1971 can be obtained through the Health Department office, Rt. 78 South, Kewanee. In addition, certified death certificates since 1971 are also available through their office.
According to Donna Ericson, Deputy Registrar, "The complimentary record of a child's birth certificate that is provided by the hospital is not a legal document." Parents are required to show proof of the child's birthdate upon applying for security benefits or for a social security number which is necessary to open a savings account."
"Proof of birthdate is also required for school entrance," adds Ericson, "and a certified copy of the original birth certificate is necessary." In some areas of the United States non-custodial parents may attempt to register children in school without legal birth certificates. School officials have been warned to be suspicious of this practice, noting that each year, many children are reported taken from their custodial parents and illegally transported to other areas of the country.
(Either) Birth parents, listed on the child's birth certificate, or court ordered legal guardians may request a certified copy of their child's birth certificate by contacting the Henry County Health Department at 4424 US Hwy 34, Kewanee or (309) 852-0197. In addition, Birth Parents will need a photo ID, such as a driver's license, along with a completed request form and fee.
The charge for obtaining birth certified copies will increase, as of July 1, 2016, to $13 for the first copy and $6 for each additional copy. The cost of certified death certificate copies will be $15 for the first copy and $10 for each additional copy.
For more information on obtaining certified birth or death certificates, call the Health Department at (309) 852-0197. Request forms are also available on our website at www.henrystarkhealth.com under vital records. Enclose a photo ID, such as a driver's license along with your request and fee.
