Why would you ever need the help of an expedited damaged passport service? Well say, as a US citizen, you haven't been abroad for over 5 years, but you're taking a vacation to Europe - and are in fact, leaving tomorrow! You're SURE you've covered everything - you're all packed, you have your itinerary and your traveler's checks - you can even feel a slight sting from the shots you had two days ago.
Most importantly, you have a valid passport - in fact, you know exactly which brown shoe box you put it in five years earlier.
But upon taking it from the box, you notice that there is a stain partially obstructing your signature.
However, you're not worried, because if you look closely, it is still readable.
So, do you think that the fact that it's "readable" will "fly" with the border patrol, when you show it to them? Unless your answer is "no," you are wrong.
Nowadays, with the threat of terrorism always looming on the horizon, all countries have become more "watchful" in who they let cross their borders.
If there is even a question about the person, or the documentation he is carrying - he will be detained until it is figured out.
Well, if you happen to get held up at the border due to a suspect passport, you will then need the services of an expedited damaged passport service, immediately, so you can get a replacement and be on your way.
You can easily find a number of these services online to help you.
And, be prepared to provide them with necessary information that includes your reasons for traveling, proper forms of ID - like driver's license and social security card - passport photos, proof of US citizenship, a written statement of how your passport came to be damaged - and a properly filled out application for a new passport.
To get their services, you will have to have a valid credit card on hand, and it won't be cheap.
Be aware that you could be spending up to three hundred dollars - depending on if you need your passport immediately.
Once the purchase has gone through, you will then be given your own passport expedition case worker, who will see you through the process - from start to completion, so you can get on with your trip.
For the future, it might be wise for you to take extra precautions now, in order to protect your important papers for any travel you may take later.
You can do this by wrapping them up in clean cloth, then sealing them carefully in a clean baggy.
Moreover, make sure whatever box you use for storing them in, is completely empty except for your papers - and is also safe from any liquids that could seep in over time.
And finally, make sure the box is placed in a clean and dry area, and out of the sight range of any curious children.