FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Find answers to common questions about requesting a certified vital record.
Are you a government agency?
No. California Birth Certificates is a private, independent document preparation and filing assistance company. We are not a government agency and are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by any federal, state, or local government agency.
How does the process work?
You complete our secure online form (5–10 minutes), we review your information for completeness, then submit your request to the issuing vital records office. The government office prints and mails your certificate.
How much does it cost?
You pay the government fee plus our optional service fee, shown together before you pay. You always see the total cost up front — no hidden charges.
How long will it take?
We aim to file your request within 24 hours. The issuing government office typically processes and mails the certificate within 3–8 business days, though times vary by state and workload.
Is my information secure?
Yes. All information you share is encrypted in transit (TLS) and only used to prepare and submit your request. We do not sell or share your personal data with third parties for marketing.
Can I get a refund?
Our service fees are fully refundable if we cannot file your request within 30 days of receiving all required information and payment in full.
Our services
One document, one simple process
We help you prepare and submit your California birth certificate request correctly the first time.