What we can help retrieve
- Certified copies
- Record-location assistance
- Massachusetts city and town records
- State records where appropriate
- Apostille assistance
- International shipping when requested
Information normally needed
- Full name at birth and current legal name if different
- Date and Massachusetts city or town of birth
- Hospital or place of birth, if known
- Parents’ full names and prior or maiden names, if applicable
- Your relationship to the person on the record
- Number of copies, purpose and receiving organization’s instructions
How the process works
Identify the document and its intended use. We review the likely custodian, access requirements and service cost. After acceptance, payment and any required authorization, we coordinate the permitted retrieval process and available delivery method.
Read the full process ↗Potential restrictions
Access to some birth records is restricted. Identity, relationship, authorization or additional documentation may be required. A request does not establish eligibility.
Apostille and international use
If the record will be used abroad, provide the destination country and the receiving organization’s instructions. Eligible documents may be suitable for apostille or other authentication. International shipping can be requested; availability is confirmed for the destination.
Massachusetts record apostille assistance ↗Frequently asked questions
Can you obtain a certified copy?
We can help request a certified or attested copy when the custodian offers one and the request is eligible. Tell us the receiving organization’s requirements.
How long does retrieval take?
Timing depends on the custodian, record availability and any required identification or authorization. A requested deadline is not a guaranteed completion date.
What if I do not have every detail?
Provide what you know. Missing names, dates or reference numbers may require additional research or clarification before a request can proceed.
Official sources and related guides
For current custodian requirements or to request records directly: