5 Tips to Saving Time and Money in Replacing Government Documents

It can be a hassle to lose government documents. Not only will it take time and effort to start the process of replacing them, but if the documents or identification fall into the wrong hands, there is a possibility that you can be a victim of identity theft.

If you want to have a stress-free time of replacing your documents, just read and follow the tips below.

1. Make sure to inform the proper authorities first

If you lose your documents such as your social security card, other than getting a replacement, it’s also important to take other steps so that you can protect your identity. Some are advised to file a police report while it would also be smart to keep an eye on your credit reports so that you will see right away if there are any discrepancies. You want to make sure that no one is using your name to make any purchases or apply for loans.

2. Replace the document as soon as you realize they have been lost

It’s very important that you swiftly act and start the process of replacing the lost documents as soon as they have been misplaced, lost or stolen. Some documents may take a while to process, so the earlier you start the process, the better. Putting off replacing them may not only result in some complications but will also be a hassle when you find yourself needing the said document. An example would be your passport. You may think that you would not be needing one so soon since you don’t do a lot of traveling. But what if an opportunity suddenly arises and you will need to let go of it because you did not have your passport replaced right away.

3. Do your research

Before you visit the government offices and start the process of replacing your lost documents, make sure to do your research and familiarize yourself with how the process goes. If in the unfortunate time that you actually lose several documents at the same time, you need to realize that the process for getting them replaced may not be the same. You may need to visit different offices for each document lost. Better go to the website and check out the steps you need to accomplish so that you will be prepared.

4. Prepare all documents that you might need

Also make sure to check what documents or proof of identification you will need to present in order to get the replacement for your documents. You may need to prepare your birth certificate, your driver’s license or another state-given identification card as proof of your identification. For others, they may need to provide some other proof of citizenship or residency other than the ones mentioned above.

5. Look for websites that offer help in the processing

In doing your research, you may find that for some documents, you can actually go to websites to start the process of replacement. Just go to the website, fill up the form and the process of replacement will start.