I am trying to help my 18 year old neice obtain a state ID. ID is required for testing, driver's licensing and most other adult things. The only records we had were school copies, former school ID and an insurance card.
On June 6, I placed an order for a birth certificate. Away from my computer, I used a public library computer; the library rules were 30 minutes, standing only. I thought I was going through the official state of Texas website to place my order. The cost would have been $22. However, I got redirected to through the website Texas Vital Records to another business. The charge was $65. which was placed on my credit card by Vital Records License 888 733-7882 NY on June 9. The website stated the usual time frame from order to delivery as 10-20 working days.
Along with the application, I uploaded copies of my neice's birth certificate and social security card (obtained from school records). On June 7 they also required a notorized authorization form with my neice's signature. That was difficult to do with limited ID, but was able to do so and emailed it to them June 12, along with additional identification (school ID and insurance card) as they had requested.
On June 29, I attempted to track my order, using the link from their email to me. There was no information. So...I chatted with a supposed female regarding the time frame and my concern that I had sent all kinds of identification, they had taken $65 and I didn't have a clue as to when the birth certificate would be arriving. I was suspecting fraud and possible identity theft. The chat person could give me no information other than it's processing and asked if I wanted to speak to her manager.
On June 29, I received a threatening email from Josh (no last name) He said he was manager at State Vital Records. His number in his email was 888-733-7882, ext. 702. So I called. He was not polite or professional. He could not give me a process or reason for the delay. He suggested I had not paid a premium for quicker shipment (although I told him $65 was a premium and there is no way it should take so long to process something they already have a copy of) Then he said it took longer because I chose to go through the state portal. DUH! We also discussed there was no point in a tracking site when all it says is "Processing".
On several occasions I have gone back to the tracking site and now there is a projected delivery date of from June 14 to July 13. I've tried to call Josh again with no answer. I've emailed and still get the same answer, "Your order went into processing June 14 and standard shipping date is 10-20 business days".
The 20 business days have come and gone (even allowing for July 4th). I have no birth certificate and I'm afraid they are using my neice's identification for fraud. They should be put out of business.