Q: Is it illegal for my parents to keep My birth certificate and social security card from me since I am 18
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A:
No, once you turn 18, your parents are not legally required to provide you with your birth certificate or social security card. As an adult, you have the right to possess your own vital documents.
However, it's important to understand that your parents aren't necessarily doing anything illegal by keeping these documents, as there is no law that explicitly mandates them to hand them over to you. That being said, you have the right to request and obtain your own copies of these documents.
Here's what you can do:
1. Birth certificate: Contact the vital records office in the state where you were born and request a certified copy of your birth certificate. You may need to provide identification and pay a fee.
2. Social Security card: Visit your local Social Security Administration (SSA) office or request a replacement card online through the SSA website. You will need to provide proof of identity and citizenship.
If your parents refuse to provide you with the original documents, you can still obtain copies independently. It's essential to have these documents in your possession as they are often required for various purposes, such as employment, obtaining a driver's license, or applying for a passport.
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