As a soon-to-be parent, you know how important it is to give your child the best possible start. If you are not married, establishing paternity adds the father’s name on your baby’s birth certificate, making him the legal father and providing a range of benefits — financial, social and emotional.
Studies show that men who establish paternity at the hospital are more likely to have a relationship with their child. Your child needs love and support from both of you!
If you are both sure of the identity of the child's biological father AND you do not want a DNA test, you can complete an Acknowledgment of Paternity form right at the Beaufort Memorial Collins Birthing Center. It is completely voluntary and the easiest way to establish paternity. Plus, it's free while you're with us!
To complete the process, BOTH PARENTS must:
If the father cannot be present or either of you does not have your ID and Social Security number (if you are a U.S. citizen), then the hospital cannot add the father’s name to the birth certificate.
If either of you is not 100% sure of paternity, do not complete the Paternity Acknowledgment. You can get a low-cost DNA test through the Department of Social Services after your child is born. For more information about the test, call the South Carolina Parenting Opportunity Program at 866-914-8786 or visit their website. If you have any questions even before your baby is born, call the Birth Certificate Clerk at 843-522-5744. You may also call the South Carolina Parenting Opportunity Program toll-free at 866-914-8786.
*For parents who are not U.S. citizens and would like to complete an Acknowledgement of Paternity, original passports may be used if they are valid and include a photo.