LA Fire Victims: How to Replace Essential Documents
How to Replace Essential Documents in California
Losing your important documents in a disaster is overwhelming, but replacing them shouldn't be. We've put together the below guide to help those who need to replace their essential documents after the LA fires:
A birth certificate is often needed to verify your identity and apply for other replacement documents.
Steps to Replace:
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Where to Apply: California Department of Public Health (CDPH) or the County Recorder’s Office where the birth occurred
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Documents Needed:
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Completed application form (available at CDPH Vital Records).
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A notarized sworn statement (required for authorized copies)
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A government-issued photo ID (if available)
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Cost: $29 per certified copy
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How to Submit:
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Online via a third-party service like VitalChek
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By mail to CDPH Vital Records
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In person at the County Recorder’s Office
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Replacing a marriage certificate is important for legal and financial purposes.
Steps to Replace:
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Where to Apply: County Clerk’s Office where the marriage license was issued
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*If you aren't sure which county your marriage license was issued, you can reach out to the Vital Records office - use the this link to search for the state where you were married.
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Documents Needed:
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Completed application form (available on the County Clerk’s website)
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A government-issued photo ID
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Cost: Varies by county (typically $15–25 per certified copy)
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How to Submit:
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By mail or in person at the issuing County Clerk’s Office
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Your Social Security card is essential for employment and accessing benefits.
Steps to Replace:
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Where to Apply: Social Security Administration (SSA)
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Documents Needed:
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Completed Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card)Proof of identity (e.g., U.S. passport, driver’s license, or state-issued ID)
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Proof of citizenship (e.g., birth certificate) if not previously verified
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Cost: Free
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How to Submit:
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Online via your my Social Security account (if eligible)
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By mail or in person at your local SSA office
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Processing Time: 10–14 business days
Replacing a lost or damaged passport is necessary for international travel and identification.
Steps to Replace:
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Where to Apply: U.S. Department of State
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Documents Needed:
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Completed Form DS-64 (Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen Passport)
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Completed Form DS-11 (Application for a U.S. Passport)
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Proof of identity (e.g., driver’s license or previous passport if available)
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Proof of citizenship (e.g., birth certificate)
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Passport photo
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Cost: $130 for a passport book ($30 additional for a card) plus a $35 execution fee
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How to Submit:
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In person at a Passport Acceptance Facility (e.g., post office or county clerk’s office)
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Replacing a driver’s license or state ID is vital for identification and driving privileges.
Steps to Replace:
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Where to Apply: California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
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Documents Needed:
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Proof of identity (e.g., birth certificate or passport)
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Proof of California residency (e.g., utility bill, rental agreement)
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Social Security Number
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Cost: $38 for a replacement driver’s license; $33 for an ID card.
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How to Submit:
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Online (if you have a DMV account and meet the criteria)
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In person at a DMV office
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Contact FEMA: If your area is declared a disaster zone, FEMA may assist with the cost of replacing documents. Apply at disasterassistance.gov or call 1-800-621-3362.
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Keep Copies: Once you’ve replaced your documents, consider storing digital copies securely in the cloud or in a fireproof safe.
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Reach Out for Help: Many organizations, including local government offices and nonprofits, offer resources to fire survivors. Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance.
Thinking of you all during this difficult time.
- Alex & the NÉE team
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