Your Legal Checklist After Having a Baby

The arrival of a newborn brings immense joy and a multitude of responsibilities. Among these responsibilities, certain legal tasks need prompt attention to ensure the security and well-being of your child. This blog post is designed to act as your legal checklist after having a baby.

From obtaining a birth certificate to setting up health insurance for your newborn. We will walk you through each step so that you can focus on enjoying this precious time with your new baby. It’s important to know all the essential legal matters are handled.

Securing a Birth Certificate and Social Security Number for Your Baby

Securing a birth certificate and social security number for your newborn is a straightforward process that usually begins at the hospital. That’s one easy task you can tick off your legal checklist after having a baby! After the birth of your child, the hospital staff will gather the necessary information to complete the birth certificate and send it to the state health department.

During this process, parents can also apply for a Social Security number for their newborn. This is often the easiest way to obtain a Social Security number, as it can be done simultaneously with the registration of the birth certificate.

Ensuring Health Insurance Coverage for Your Newborn

Adding your newborn to your health insurance policy is a critical step that you should take as soon as possible after birth. Most insurance companies require that your newborn be added to your policy within 30 days of birth. Be sure to contact your insurance provider to understand the specific steps you need to take. Requirements can vary between different providers.

Setting Aside Time for Estate Planning

Estate planning is an essential task that often gets overlooked in the excitement of welcoming a new baby. This will help your family build a strong foundation for your future. However, it is important to set aside time to update your will or trust to include your new child. This ensures your child will be provided for in the event of your death. It is recommended to consult a professional estate planner to ensure all legal aspects are properly addressed.

Setting Up a Guardianship

Establishing guardianship for your child is a crucial step that helps you plan for unforeseen circumstances. In the event of your untimely death or incapacity, a legal guardian will be responsible for taking care of your child. Do not take this decision lightly, and make sure the chosen individual or couple is willing and capable of raising your child.

Updating Your Tax Information After the Birth of Your Child

The birth of a child has significant implications for your tax situation. It’s important to update your tax information with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to claim child-related tax credits and deductions. This includes adjusting your tax withholding at work, claiming your child as a dependent, and taking advantage of child-related tax credits such as the Child Tax Credit and the Child and Dependent Care Credit.