Indiana paternity: paternity affidavit at the hospital within 72 hours or at the health department later; otherwise by court order

Get these first

a child whose father is not legally established

Steps

1. At the birth: sign the paternity affidavit at the hospital within 72 hours.
2. Later: sign it at your local health department any time before the child is emancipated.
3. If the parents do not agree: either parent (or the county child support office, if your case is open) can ask a court to decide, and the court can order genetic testing.

Is it still open?

Not confirmed yet

Official details

What you can get

A paternity affidavit may be completed at the hospital within 72 hours of the child's birth or at your local health department any time before the child is emancipated. Official source

Who can get it

Not confirmed yet

What to bring

Paternity Affidavit - Hospital Use (State Form 44780) Official source

How to apply

Either parent may file an action in an appropriate Indiana court seeking determination of paternity. Official source

Where to apply

For assistance with establishing paternity, contact the local county health department or the local county child support office. Official source

Who decides

Not confirmed yet

How fast they decide

within 72 hours of the child's birth Official source

Sources

• https://www.in.gov/dcs/child-support/about-us/paternity checked 2026-10-28