In some situations, a vital record may be requested by someone acting on behalf of another individual using a Power of Attorney (POA). Whether a POA is accepted depends on the state where the vital record is being requested and the type of record involved.
When Power of Attorney Is Accepted
Some states allow a person with valid Power of Attorney to request a certified vital record on behalf of another individual. In these cases, the POA must typically:
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Be legally valid and properly executed
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Clearly grant authority to request vital records
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Match the information of both the principal (the person named on the record) and the agent
Acceptance of POA varies by state, and not all states permit POA for all types of vital records.
Required Documentation
If a state allows requests with Power of Attorney, you may be asked to provide:
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A copy of the Power of Attorney document
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Valid identification for the agent (the person making the request)
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Identification or supporting documentation for the principal, depending on state requirements
Additional documentation may be required based on the state and the specific record being requested.
Important State-Specific Considerations
Each state has its own rules regarding whether Power of Attorney is accepted and what documentation is required. Some states may require notarized documents or additional proof of eligibility.
To review whether Power of Attorney is accepted in your state and what documents are required, visit our home page and select your state from the interactive map.
Need Assistance?
If you are unsure whether Power of Attorney applies to your situation or need help understanding the required documentation, our customer support team is available to assist you.