If you lost your identity during Hurricane Sandy, it’s not impossible to replace it. Birth certificates, social security cards, driver licenses, and other important documents can be reprinted–although it’s difficult to get one without showing another. Here’s how to get your identity back.
Replacing Vital Documents
If you aren’t able to salvage your wet records, it’s time to get new copies of everything. If you don’t replace lost records and identification papers, it can be hard to get a job, a loan, or copies of other important documents.
Different states may have varying requirements for obtaining copies of marriage, birth, or death certificates. Generally though, you will need to fill out a form, which may need to be notarized (thus requiring some form of identification) before being mailed to your state’s vital records office.
Replacing a Social Security Card
While simply writing down your memorized social security number will suffice for some forms, replacing your social security card is vital if you plan to start a new job or receive social security benefits. Showing your driver license or passport and filling out a standard form at your local social security office can be enough to get a new copy, but you’ll need a little extra documentation if you are a U.S. immigrant. Social security cards may only be obtained by showing original identification documents–notarized copies will not be enough. Fortunately, if you have lost your driver license you can show other identification instead: a school or employee identification card, a military identification card, a life insurance policy, or any other document listed on the U.S. Social Security Administration’s website. You will receive your new card in the mail within 10 days.
Replacing a Driver License
Methods for replacing a lost driver license can vary by state, but generally you may need to visit your local DMV and show a social security card (or a W-2, 1099, or recent pay stub showing your social security number), and a bank statement, utility or credit card bill, car registration, or other acceptable proof of address. You may want to file a police report if you have lost your license.
Replacing a Passport
A lost passport should be reported immediately. If you suspect your identity has been stolen, you can contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or the FBI. You can also visit consumer.gov if you know someone is using your personal information. A damaged passport can only be replaced by applying in person at a Passport Agency or Acceptance Facility, since renewing by mail requires an undamaged passport. Be prepared with documents proving your identity and citizenship, such as a birth certificate and your driver license. You will also need to fill out a passport application form.
Mutilated Cash
If you forgot to grab your cash stash before flood waters crept in, you can even replace the mutilated money — as long as it’s somewhat legible. You can send a damaged currency claim — along with your damaged cash and a written estimate of its value — to the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing. You can also replace destroyed or lost savings bonds via mail by filling out a form.
While it may be a bit of a headache, there is usually a way to get replacements for important identification documents. Contact the appropriate local government agencies to help get you on your way to recovering your identity.
