How Do I Correct or Amend Utah Vital Records?

Plain-English guide to fixing or updating birth, marriage, and divorce records in Utah

Fixing mistakes or updating names on Utah birth, marriage, or divorce records is possible, but the process depends on the kind of change you need. This guide explains when an administrative correction with the Utah Department of Health and Human Services Vital Records office is enough, when you need a court order, and which documents help you get it right the first time.

Utah vital records are legal documents, and even small errors can cause delays with passports, Social Security, and benefits. The steps below show what to expect and how to avoid common rejection reasons.

Overview – Administrative Fixes vs. Court Orders

Minor errors like spelling fixes, missing dates, or typographical issues can usually be corrected directly through DHHS Vital Records. Larger changes like legal name changes, parentage updates, or gender marker amendments generally require a court order first.

Once a court order is granted, file it with the state registrar along with the required amendment form, ID, and fees.

Checklist – Steps to Correct or Amend

1) Identify the record type Birth certificate, marriage certificate, or divorce record. Each follows similar principles but uses different forms through DHHS Vital Records or the County Clerk.

2) Gather required forms and ID Vital Records Request to Amend form, government-issued photo ID, and documentary proof such as hospital records, prior certificates, or affidavits. If changing name or gender, include a certified copy of the court order.

3) Determine if a court order is required Needed for legal name or gender marker changes, parentage changes, or amendments after adoption or legal determinations.

4) Submit your request In person at DHHS Vital Records or a local health department, or by mail to the Utah Office of Vital Records and Statistics in Salt Lake City with a certified check or money order.

5) Include payment Typical amendment fee is around $20 per record, plus a certified copy fee. Additional copies usually cost $10–$15 each.

6) Turnaround time Minor clerical corrections usually take 2–4 weeks. Court-order-based amendments often take 4–8 weeks or longer depending on verification.

7) Review and verify You will receive a new certified copy showing the corrected or amended details. Review it carefully to avoid downstream issues with Social Security, passports, or school enrollment.

Common Reasons Requests Get Rejected

Missing or incomplete ID copies
Lack of supporting documentation for the change
Submitting an uncertified court order or unsigned affidavit
Using white-out, alteration marks, or unclear handwriting on forms
Wrong fee amounts or mailing to the wrong address

Optional Cover Letter for Mail Submissions

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]

Date: [Insert Date]

To:
Utah Department of Health and Human Services
Office of Vital Records and Statistics
P.O. Box 141012
Salt Lake City, UT 84114-1012

Subject: Request to Amend [Birth / Marriage / Divorce] Record

Dear Vital Records Clerk,
I am requesting an amendment to my [birth/marriage/divorce] certificate to correct [brief description, for example: the spelling of my last name]. I have enclosed all required forms, identification, and supporting documents as outlined in your published requirements.

Please contact me at [phone/email] if any additional information is needed to complete this request. Thank you for your assistance.

Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name]

Video and Social Learning Hub

YouTube – Vital Records Amendments

▶ What Is A Birth Certificate Amendment? ▶ What Is The Birth Certificate Amendment Process ▶ Utah Birth Certificates Guide – Utah State Archives Playlist

Instagram – Tips and Examples

📸 Utah County Health Department – How to Amend a Child’s Birth Certificate 📸 Common Issues When Changing Birth Certificates 📸 Humorous Take on Incorrect Birth Certificate Details

Keep Your Records Accurate

Correcting or amending a Utah vital record does not have to be stressful. Make sure your documentation and ID are complete before you submit. Whether you are fixing a typo or updating information after a legal change, Utah’s Vital Records system provides a clear path to keep your information accurate and official.

Talk to a Utah Attorney

For more plain-English legal guidance, stay updated with Utah Law Explained, explore our mission on the About Us page, or connect with trusted counsel like Gibb Law Firm.

Explore

Utah Law Explained About Us Gibb Law Firm