How do I replace government-issued documents?
For the most part, you cannot use a picture or copy of a government-issued ID, permit, or certificate. You must have an original document, although, for some documents, a certified copy may be acceptable. You can replace most government-issued documents by contacting the agency that issued the original. Many agencies have forms you can complete to request a replacement document, which typically ask for a fee along with information like the following:
- Your full name.
- An identification number assigned to you, such as a driver’s license or Social Security number.
- Your address, phone number, and other contact information.
- Other information a government agency would need to verify your identity and provide you with a new document.
Driver’s licenses
Each state has a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or similar office that handles driver’s licenses. This includes replacing yours if you have lost it. Find your state’s DMV office location to get started.
Identification cards
Even if you do not have a driver’s license, you might have a photo ID issued by your state’s DMV. You need a photo ID for all kinds of activities, such as applying for a job, going through airport security, or even voting in some states. Losing your ID can be catastrophic. Reaching out to your state’s DMV is often the first step to get a replacement state ID card .
U.S. passports
You need a passport to travel outside the U.S. Losing a passport could delay your travel plans. If it happens while you are abroad, it could prevent you from being able to come home.
The U.S. Department of State handles passport applications, renewals, and replacements. Before your travel, you can apply to replace a lost passport by completing Form DS-11 and Form DS-64. You can file these forms at a passport acceptance facility like the Post Office or complete them online at travel.state.gov. It can take a month or longer to receive your new passport. You can pay an expedited service fee to reduce that time to a few weeks.
If you are already outside the U.S. when you lose your passport, you can contact the closest U.S. embassy or consulate to get more information about obtaining a replacement. This process can still take time, but the embassy or consulate staff might be able to provide a limited-validity passport that expires after one year. That should be enough to allow you to complete your travel plans and return to the U.S.
Birth, marriage, or death certificates
Every state has a vital records office that handles lost birth, death, or marriage certificates. The CDC maintains a webpage that can help you get in touch with your state’s office.
Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid cards
The U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA) can replace your Social Security or Medicare card. You have several options:
- You can visit your local Social Security office to request a replacement of either card.
- You can request a new Social Security card at ssa.gov.
- You can request a new Medicare card at Medicare.gov.
Your state Medicaid agency can help you replace a lost, damaged, or stolen Medicaid card.
Tax returns
The IRS can provide you with copies of past tax returns. Each request will cost you $30 unless you are located in a federally declared disaster area. The IRS will waive the fee in that situation.
You might not need to go through the IRS. If you hired a Tax Pro to prepare your tax return, you can ask them if they kept a copy in their files.
Immigration documents
Documents that prove your immigration status can be vitally important. You may need these documents for employment, to travel outside the country, or to apply for naturalization as a U.S. citizen. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) can help you get a replacement if you lose your Permanent Resident Card, also known as a Green Card, your work authorization card, or other immigration documents.
The U.S. Department of State handles many visas for temporary stays in the U.S., also known as nonimmigrant visas. Examples include B-2 tourist visas and H-1B work visas. The State Department’s website offers guidance for people who have lost their visas.
Can I get another copy of a contract if it is lost?
Most contracts are between two or more private parties, meaning the government cannot provide you with copies if you lose yours. Businesses that enter into contracts with consumers are usually able to replace lost or stolen documents. Just like if you lose a debit or credit card, for example, the company can give you a replacement card. Insurance companies keep copies of their insurance policies on file and can give copies to their policyholders.
If you have lost your copy of a contract, you can reach out to the other people who signed the contract. You can also ask your attorney, if you worked with one, if they have a copy. If you made the document with Rocket Lawyer, you’ll find a copy in your dashboard. And if you had it signed using Rocket Sign, you’ll even have a signed version of your contract right in your Rocket Lawyer dashboard. Rocket Lawyer members can also upload and add their own legal documents to their dashboard for Rocket Lawyer to securely store.
What happens if my estate planning documents are lost?
Your estate planning documents are among the most important documents you will ever have. These might include:
- Last Will and Testament.
- Power of Attorney for your finances or business.
- Medical Power of Attorney.
- Advanced Directive or Living Will to outline your wishes regarding medical care.
If you cannot find your estate planning documents, your attorney might be able to give you copies. Estate planning attorneys often keep original documents in a secure area, such as a fireproof safe, because of their great importance.
You can guard against losing your estate planning documents by designating a specific secure location for them. This might be a safe deposit box at your bank or a safe in your home.
Another way to deal with losing a Last Will and Testament is to create a new one. Making a new Will or other estate planning document can revoke or supersede a prior one. It won’t matter that you cannot find the old Will, because the new one will be the only one with legal force.
If you need help replacing a legal document, reaching out to a Rocket Legal Pro™ is an easy and reliable way to get affordable legal advice.
This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Rocket Lawyer is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.
