Priority Documents
Driver’s License, REAL ID or State ID
- To save time, use the online DMV services at: https://www.ca.gov/LAFires/ for quicker retrieval of your Real ID or CA DL. The DMV announced they are waiving the usual fees to fire victims.
- If you are not able to complete your transaction online, you can call 800-777-0133 to facilitate the process.
Social Security Cards
- Initiate the process by applying online at the Social Security Administration’s official website at https://www.ssa.gov/number-card.
- Alternatively, you can call 800-772-1213 or visit a local Social Security office, where staff can guide you through the application process.
Birth Certificates
- Contact the vital records office in the state where you were born. This is the official entity that manages birth certificates and can provide the copies you need.
- Many states offer the convenience of online ordering through a service called VitalChek, allowing you to place your order from anywhere.
Marriage Certificates
- Reach out to the county clerk’s office where your marriage license was issued. This vital record will serve as confirmation of your marital status.
Financial Documents
Credit Cards
- Contact each of your credit card issuers without delay to inform them of your need for replacement cards.
- Vigilantly monitor your account statements for unusual or fraudulent transactions, as this will help safeguard your finances.
Bank Documents
- Visit the closest (other) local bank branch armed with identification to request new debit cards, checkbooks, and copies of your recent bank statements.
- Make sure to update your online banking credentials immediately, ensuring they are secure and accessible as you navigate this transition.
Insurance Policies
- Contact all of your insurance agents across different sectors, including home, auto, life, and health insurance, to request duplicates of your policies.
- Clearly communicate any changes or, especially if you are temporarily relocated.
- Consider maintaining digital copies of your insurance policies for easy access and safekeeping, which can save you time and stress in the future.
Property Documents
Property Deed
- The quickest way to get a copy of your recorded deeds these days is a digital copy from a title insurance company. If you would like our assistance, we would be glad to help.
Vehicle Titles
- To save time, use the online DMV services located at: https://www.ca.gov/LAFires/ for quicker retrieval of your vehicle title replacement. The state has announced they are waiving the usual fees to fire victims.
- If you are not able to complete your transaction online, you can call 1-800-777-0133.
Medical Documents
Medical Records
- Contact each of your healthcare providers directly to request copies of your recent medical records.
- If you had not already, consider signing up for patient portals, which many healthcare systems offer, as these can provide easy digital access to all your medical records.
Immunization Records
- Get in touch with the state health department, which maintains records of immunizations administered.
- Alternatively, request your immunization records from your primary care physician for a complete history.
Additional Important Documents
Passport
- If you have lost your passport, report it immediately to the State Department to prevent fraudulent use at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/have-passport.html, where you can also apply to replace your passport online if you already have one.
- Ensure you provide adequate proof of citizenship and identity during this process, as this information is essential for issuing a replacement.
Military Service Records
- To obtain your military service records, submit a request through the National Archives using the eVetRecs tool, which streamlines the process.
- You can also contact your local Veterans Affairs office for further assistance and information on your records.
