Proof of Identity When Buying a House: Vital Records You’ll Actually Need

Buying a house? First off, congrats!

Whether you’re leveling up from apartment life or finally escaping the roommate jungle, it’s a major milestone.

But once the excitement hits... so does the paperwork.
And yes, you’ll need more than your driver’s license or passport to prove who you are.

Let’s break down the vital records and ID documents you actually need when buying a home, so you don’t get slowed down by missing paperwork when it matters most.

Why Identity Verification Matters in Real Estate

Real estate is all about legally transferring ownership of major assets (like... your future home).
So title companies, lenders, and attorneys need to verify:

• Who you are
• Where you were born
• What your legal name is
• If you're married, single, divorced, etc.

That means beyond your ID, they may ask for certified vital records, especially if there are any name changes or legal complexities in your past.

Vital Records You Might Need When Buying a House

1. Birth Certificate

Yes, even as a fully grown adult, you may be asked to show this.

You’ll need it if:

• There are inconsistencies in your legal name
• You’ve changed your name in the past
• You're verifying identity for international background checks or dual citizenship

Pro Tip: A certified copy is required. A scan or hospital keepsake won't work.

2. Marriage Certificate

Buying a home with your spouse? Using their last name?
You’ll likely need a certified marriage certificate to show:

• Proof of your legal name change
• Marital status for mortgage or title paperwork

This is especially common if your ID still shows your maiden name or if you’re taking out a joint loan.

3. Divorce Decree

If you’ve previously been married and divorced, lenders might request:

• Your divorce decree (to clarify legal name or asset division)
• Proof of single ownership, especially if buying property separately from your ex

Not fun, but necessary, especially in states with community property laws.

4. Death Certificate (in some cases)

If you’re widowed and buying on your own (or inheriting property), a death certificate might be required to:

• Close out joint ownership
• Clear legal title
• Confirm sole borrowing eligibility

Other ID You’ll Definitely Need:

In addition to vital records, expect to show:

• A government-issued photo ID (like a driver’s license or passport)
• Social Security card or number
• Proof of income and employment
• Tax returns or W-2s

But don’t let the “obvious” docs distract you, missing a vital record can still delay closing.

How to Get Vital Records Fast (Without a DMV Breakdown)

Missing a document? No worries.

Instead of jumping through hoops at a government office, you can securely order certified copies through StateVitalRecords.org.

Receiving your vital records through our website only gets better from here. You can receive a state-issued birth certificate, death certificate or any other information needed regarding vital information.

Here’s how State Vital Records works:

• Order online – Submit an application through our online order form. This may all be
• Location - Order is completed by the jurisdiction that holds the record.
• Receiving Documents - You’ll receive the requested information by mail.
  • A. Upload Your Document
  • B. Verify Your Identity
  • C. Connect Online With An Online Notary
  • D. Download Your Notarized Document Through Email.
• If you require assistance in notarizing your document, please contact [email protected]. Interested in the notarization process? Click here to learn more.

Looking to order your state vital records? Click here to make a request. Have any questions, contact us!

Final Thought

In the whirlwind of mortgage rates, house tours, home appraisal, and signing a purchase agreement, don’t forget the most important part: proving who you are.

Having your vital records ready means fewer delays, smoother paperwork, and a faster path to the keys in your hand.

Need to order one ASAP? StateVitalRecords.org is your go-to for fast, certified copies, no lines, no stress.

COMMON QUESTIONS

ARE THE CERTIFICATES OFFICIAL?

• Yes. The certificates are issued by departments of public health and are recognized and accepted by all state and federal agencies.

WHAT KIND OF PAYMENT METHODS DO YOU ACCEPT?

• We accept Visa, MasterCard, JCB, American Express and Discover. Please contact us for more payment options.

WHAT KIND OF VITAL RECORDS CAN I RECEIVE/ORDER?

• State Birth Certificate
• State Death Certificate
• Marriage Certificate
• Divorce Certificate
• Fetal Death and Stillbirth Certificates

ARE YOU AFFILIATED WITH A LOCAL, STATE OR FEDERAL AGENCY?

• We are a privately-owned site, but trusted and contracted by the Department of Public Health.

Related Reads

• Can I Get A Birth Certificate for Free?
• Safe Places To Store Your Birth Certificate and Other Important Documents
• Do You Need A Birth Certificate to Get Married?
• Advice For A Stress-Free Passport Renewal