If you plan on adding a dependent in 2019, be aware of the Trust Fund’s new policy regarding birth and marriage certificates. In order to successfully enroll a dependent, members now must submit authorized certified birth and marriage certificates.

Without an authorized certified certificate, dependents cannot be enrolled and they may not obtain benefits. Please provide these documents at the time of enrollment or within 30 days of obtaining a new dependent through marriage, birth or adoption.

A copy of the signed placement for adoption paperwork, and, ultimately, the signed court adoption certificate, is required for adoptions.

How to obtain authorized certified certificates

The fastest way to obtain authorized certified certificates is to apply online. Below are a few online services:

• Obtaining certificates through the California Department of Public Health. Visit www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Vital-Records.aspx and click on “Online request for birth, death and marriage records.” Scroll down to the “VitalChek” link and proceed to the third-party site. VitalCheck provides marriage and birth certificates for fees ranging between $31 and $44.

• Obtaining certificates through your County Registrar-Recorder’s office. Fees vary from county to county, but they are approximately $25 for a birth certificate and $15 for a marriage certificate. They can be obtained through the following site links:
  Los Angeles County
  San Bernardino County
  Ventura County
  San Diego County
  Riverside County
  These links are provided for your convenience only. The Trust Fund neither endorses nor supports private commercial vendors or record providers and specifically disavows any endorsement or responsibility for their actions.