Those certificates, in some cases, lack information that federal or state agencies need for you to prove your identity." KCCI reporter Tommie Clark took the steps to get that new birth certificate.

Gather these documents before you apply for Social Security: A copy of a W-2 tax form or self-employment tax return from the ...

How do you apply? Anyone adopted outside of New York City can apply for their birth certificate online by visiting vitalchek.com.