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Finding My Birthparents
Many adoptees are interested in finding information about and/or connecting with their birth parents. Unfortunately, due to New York State regulations, organizations like New Hope are unable to provide you with any identifying information concerning your birth parents or family. However, you have a few options available to help you in your search.
The Adoption Registry
The Adoption Registry is an online database where adoptees and birth parents can answer their information in an effort to reconnect. If both parties register, they will be connected. However, if only one party registers (adoptee or birth parent), you won’t receive any information. You must be 18 years or older to enter in your information.
You can find all the information you need on the New York State website. This page discusses what the registry is, who can register, fees, and how to get started.
Adoption Information Registry - New York State Department of Health (ny.gov)
Your Original Birth Certificate
If you were born in New York State, you can request a copy of your original birth certificate, which will contain the names of your birth mother (and potentially father). To retrieve your original birth certificate, you can visit Vital Chek to order a copy of your birth certificate. You can also find the fees associated with this on the website. This website also includes a list of other places in NY where you can get your original birth certificate.
Genealogical Resources
Once you have obtained full names of any member of your birth family, you can begin searching genealogical websites for more information about your birth family. Some websites allow you to do so for free, but others require a subscription. These websites can be helpful, as it will enable you to potentially identify other family members, even if you are unable to locate information about your birth mother or father. You can also look at other genealogical resources, such as libraries. Large library branches often have genealogical resources free to those who have a library card in their district.
