SERVICE
Get recognized as a child's legal parent
Some parents need to fill out a form called a "Voluntary Declaration of Parentage" to access child support and other benefits.
What to know
Who is this for?
Someone who:
- Was not married to the birth parent when a child was born and
- Is the biological or genetic parent or
- Is the intended parent of a child conceived through assisted reproduction
Why is this important?
- It gives you and your child important rights and benefits. Learn more about being a legal parent.
- If you're unmarried, it might not be enough to have your name on the birth certificate. See what the state says about birth certificates and being a "legal" parent.
What to do
Request the form
You can't fill the form out online. It has many pages, and requires an official witness.
You can either:
- Visit us in person to get the form and fill it out
- Ask us to mail you a blank form (you'll need a witness)
- Get the form from another place that can help
1. Fill out the form during our open hours
San Francisco, CA 94105
Get directions
or
2. Email us to request a blank form
sfdcss@sfgov.orgor
3. Complete the form at one of these locations
You can ask for the form at:
- The hospital, after birth
- Your local registrar of births and deaths
- County welfare office
- Local court and family law facilitator office
Someone at these locations can help you understand and fill out the form. They can also serve as an authorized witness.
If you're not sure you’re the genetic parent, don’t sign the form. Ask us about free DNA testing.
What happens next?
After you submit the form, we'll be in touch with information and next steps.
If you filled out the form and want to cancel it
Usually, you have 60 days from signing the form to cancel it. Find out how to cancel your VDOP form.
Get help
Partner agencies
What to know
Who is this for?
Someone who:
- Was not married to the birth parent when a child was born and
- Is the biological or genetic parent or
- Is the intended parent of a child conceived through assisted reproduction
Why is this important?
- It gives you and your child important rights and benefits. Learn more about being a legal parent.
- If you're unmarried, it might not be enough to have your name on the birth certificate. See what the state says about birth certificates and being a "legal" parent.
What to do
Request the form
You can't fill the form out online. It has many pages, and requires an official witness.
You can either:
- Visit us in person to get the form and fill it out
- Ask us to mail you a blank form (you'll need a witness)
- Get the form from another place that can help
1. Fill out the form during our open hours
San Francisco, CA 94105
Get directions
or
2. Email us to request a blank form
sfdcss@sfgov.orgor
3. Complete the form at one of these locations
You can ask for the form at:
- The hospital, after birth
- Your local registrar of births and deaths
- County welfare office
- Local court and family law facilitator office
Someone at these locations can help you understand and fill out the form. They can also serve as an authorized witness.
If you're not sure you’re the genetic parent, don’t sign the form. Ask us about free DNA testing.
What happens next?
After you submit the form, we'll be in touch with information and next steps.
If you filled out the form and want to cancel it
Usually, you have 60 days from signing the form to cancel it. Find out how to cancel your VDOP form.