Choosing whether or not to name the father on their baby’s birth certificate is a decision mothers, particularly single mothers, must consider. Here are the pros and cons of naming the father on a birth certificate.
Adding a Father’s Name to a Birth Certificate
There are two ways to add a father’s name to the birth certificate. The first and simplest way is to add the name when the birth certificate is initially created before leaving the hospital. However, it is also possible to add the father’s name to the birth certificate after it was issued.
To add the father’s name on a birth certificate, you will need to:
- Submit a copy of the child’s original birth certificate to the Department of Vital Records in California.
- Pay the fee.
- Have the father sign an affidavit acknowledging paternity, which must be notarized and submitted. Alternatively, if the father refuses to sign, you can request a court judgment to establish paternity.
Related: How to Establish Parentage in California
Pros of Naming the Father on a Birth Certificate
Child Support
Once the father is listed on a child’s birth certificate, they become legally responsible for that child. If you intend to receive child support from the father, it is important to put the father’s name on your child’s birth certificate.
Related: How to Give Up Parental Rights and Not Pay Child Support
Health Insurance Coverage
The father’s health insurance coverage can be extended to your child if you name him on the birth certificate.
Inheritance and Death Benefits
Should the father of your child pass away, having his name on the birth certificate means that the child can be entitled to any parental inheritance. Furthermore, benefits like Social Security or continuation of child support would be available, should the father die.
Potential Benefits for Your Child
An official acknowledgment of parentage can be meaningful to both a father and child. If you intend or even hope for the father will eventually be involved in your child’s life, naming the father’s on your child’s birth certificate can be beneficial for your child. Most children will want to know who both of their biological parents are at some point in their life.
Cons of Putting the Father’s Name on a Birth Certificate
Custody Rights
If the father is on the birth certificate, they have the ability to assert parental rights, including custody rights; this includes physical and legal custody. This means that the father is entitled to visitation rights as well.
Difficulty Getting a Passport
If the father’s name is not listed on your child’s birth certificate, you will have to go through court if you want to get a passport for your child.
Difficulty Registering for School
If the father’s name is not listed on your child’s birth certificate, you may have to jump through hoops to get your child registered for school. Without the proper court order, it may be difficult to register your child for school when they come of age.
Should I Name the Father’s on My Child’s Birth Certificate?
You should consider these pros and cons when deciding whether or not to name the father on a birth certificate. However, this is a very personal decision dependent on your relationship with the father of your child. If you need legal assistance in making this decision, get your free consultation with one of our California family law attorneys today!