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How does the father benefit?
Establishing paternity can help the father experience the companionship and
emotional rewards that come with spending time with his child. He can enjoy
the benefits of paternity which may include:
• Legal establishment of parental rights and responsibilities
• Having his name added to the child’s birth certificate
• The opportunity to give the child his name if both parents choose
• The ability to add the child to his health insurance plan
• The assurance that social security or veteran’s benefits are paid to the child
in the event of his death or disability, if eligible
• Protecting his child’s right to inherit from him
• The right to seek custody or visitation, in a court action, and to be consulted
about the adoption of the child
How does the mother benefit?
Establishing paternity can help a mother by sharing the financial burden and emotional
pressure that many single parents experience. Cooperative parenting can provide strong
emotional support for the mother, father and child. The mother can also enjoy the benefits
of paternity which may include:
• Improved financial security for the family
• Information about family medical history
• Help in sharing the parental responsibilities
• Access to medical insurance coverage for the child, if available
Can I rescind or cancel the Declaration of Paternity after I sign it?
Either parent may cancel the Declaration of Paternity by completing a Rescission
of Paternity form. This form must be filed with the California Department of
Social Services within 60 days of the date the paternity declaration was signed.
The rescission form should be sent to:
California Department of Social Services
Attention: POP Unit
C/O Data Image Systems
3062 Prospect Park Drive, Suite A
Sacramento, CA 95670
This form is available at the local District Attorney’s Family Support
Office or the local registrar of births and deaths’ office.
Where do I go if I have more questions?
For more information about the Declaration of Paternity, establishing parentage
or child support, please contact your local District Attorney’s Family
Support Office, Family Law Facilitator Office or legal services organization.
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