A birth certificate is more than a vital record—it establishes essential legal rights and responsibilities. When questions about paternity arise, families often wonder if it’s possible to change the father listed on a Massachusetts birth certificate. The answer is yes, but the process depends on the circumstances.

In Massachusetts, birth certificates are issued by the Registry of Vital Records and Statistics. Correcting or amending the father’s information typically requires proof of legal parentage through court action, acknowledgment, or DNA testing. Because these issues affect child support, custody, inheritance, and more,  working with a skilled paternity attorney is essential. 

When Can the Father Be Changed on a Birth Certificate?

There are a few situations where Massachusetts law allows the father’s name on a birth certificate to be added or changed:

  • When paternity was never established–If the birth certificate does not list a father, one can be added once legal paternity is confirmed.
    When the wrong person was listed–If a man was incorrectly identified as the father, the certificate can be corrected once a court determines he is not the biological or legal father.
  • When paternity is established later–DNA testing or voluntary acknowledgment may prove who the biological father is, allowing the birth record to be updated.

Establishing or Disproving Paternity in Massachusetts

Before the Registry of Vital Records amends a birth certificate, paternity must be legally resolved. This can happen in a few ways:

  • Voluntary Acknowledgment of Parentage (VAP)– If both parents agree on paternity, they may sign a VAP form. This is often done at the hospital, but can also be completed later. Once filed, it has the same legal effect as a court order.
  • Court Order–If there is a dispute, either parent—or sometimes the Massachusetts Department of Revenue (Child Support Enforcement Division)—can ask the Probate and Family Court to decide. The court may order DNA testing before issuing a judgment.
  • Rescinding Paternity–If a man was wrongly identified as the father, he may seek to vacate the acknowledgment or challenge paternity in court, usually within specific time limits.

How the Birth Certificate Amendment Process Works

Once paternity is legally confirmed or disproved, the Registry of Vital Records can update the birth certificate. The process generally involves:

  1. Obtaining a court judgment or acknowledgment form
  2. Filing paperwork with the Registry of Vital Records
  3. Paying applicable filing fees
  4. Receiving the amended birth certificate

In cases involving the removal of a father’s name, certified copies of the court’s judgment are required. For adding a father, the acknowledgment form or judgment serves as the basis for the amendment.

Why Legal Guidance Matters

Changing a birth certificate is not just administrative—it has long-term effects on children and parents. A corrected birth certificate impacts:

At Seder Law, we help parents understand their rights and obligations when paternity is in question. Whether you are seeking to establish legal parentage, correct an error, or defend against a claim, having experienced legal counsel ensures the process is handled correctly and efficiently.

Protecting Families Through Accurate Records

It is possible to change the father’s name on a Massachusetts birth certificate, but it requires legal proof and proper filings. Because the stakes involve both children’s futures and parents’ rights, this is not a process to approach alone.

At Seder Law, we guide families in Worcester, Westborough, and across Massachusetts through paternity actions and birth certificate amendments. Contact us today to discuss your situation and learn how we can help protect your rights and your child’s best interests.