How to Get a Death Certificate

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Alabama

To obtain a death certificate from the state of Alabama, the requester must be a close relation or their legal representative. This means that a parent, spouse, child, or sibling may obtain the death certificate. Other than these, the executor of the estate or legal family representative may obtain a copy. The person listed as “informant” on the death certificate, the person who provided vital information when the deceased was taken to the funeral home, may also request a copy.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Alabama

To obtain a death certificate from the state of Alabama, the requester is going to need the following vital information:

• Full legal name of the deceased
• Location (city or county) of death
• Date of death
• Social security number
• Date of birth or Age at death
• Sex
• Race
• Spouse name
• Parents name
• Requester’s name
• Requester’s signature
• Requester’s relationship to deceased
• Daytime phone number

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Alabama

$15.00 for first copy, $6.00 for each after if ordered together. No cash. Checks or money orders made out to “State Board of Health.” Fees are non-refundable.

Application Address

Alabama Center for Health Statistics
Alabama Department of Public Health
P.O. Box 5625
Montgomery, AL 36103-5625

Physical Address

Alabama Center for Health Statistics
Alabama Department of Public Health

RSA Tower Building, 201 Monroe St, Montgomery, AL 36104

Phone/Fax

(334) 206-5418

Online Applications Information

http://www.adph.org/vitalrecords/

State Specific Info

The Alabama State office has records extending to January 1908.

Call (334) 206-5418 to verify current fees; this is a recorded message.

Other Information

To learn more about obtaining certified copies of a death certificate, please Vital Records at the Alabama Department of Public Health website.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Alaska

The qualifications to obtain a death certificate in the state of Alaska are simple: You must be either a direct blood relative or the legal representative of the same. Direct blood relative means simply a parent, spouse, child, brother, or sister of the deceased.

You will need to show proof of family relationship. Birth certificates generally suffice to show the parental relationship shared by the siblings and are acceptable means of proving family ties.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Alaska

All that is needed to obtain a death certificate from the state of Alaska is either the original version of a copy of the deceased state photo ID. If a copy is provided, please ensure that both the photo and words are clearly visible. Put your (the requester) signature below the copied ID.

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Alaska

$30 for initial copy, $25 each after initial copy when ordered at the same time.

Application Address

Department of Health and Social Services
Alaska Health Analytics & Vital Records Section
P.O. Box 110675
Juneau, AK 99811-0675

Physical Address

5441 Commercial Blvd. Juneau, AK 99801

Phone/Fax

Phone (907) 465-3391. Fax (907) 465-3618.

Online Applications Information

http://dhss.alaska.gov/dph/VitalStats/Pages/contacts/default.aspx

State Specific Info

The state office for Alaska has records since 1890’s. Events before 1930 may not have been registered with the Bureau.

Personal checks/money orders are made payable to: Bureau of Vital Statistics.

For more information such as current fees and updates, visit Alaska Department of Health and Social Services. If fees are not listed on that page for any reason, simply search the site for “Vital Record Fees” using the simple search box in the upper right corner of every page.

Other Information

Office Hours are Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Should you need additional copies with your original order, the cost is $25.00 each.

No cash is accepted. Payments must be made by Visa, Mastercard, Discover or Money Order made out to “State Board of Health.”

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Arizona

Arizona provides access to death certificates to immediate family members and spouse, an attorney representing a family member, the estate, or those with legal interest. A non-attorney, a third party, or private investigators with a legal or otherwise a vital interest may also obtain a death certificate.

The requester must be over the age of 18 and must provide proof of relationship to the deceased and/or proof of interest. If documents are from a foreign entity, they must be certified copies or originals. No photocopies. Documents may be translated, but the translation must also be certified.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Arizona

To obtain a certified death certificate in Arizona, the requester must provide the following:

• Deceased full name
• Date of death
• Place of death
• Sex
• Social Security Number
• Requester’s name
• Requester’s mailing address
• Requester’s email address
• Relationship to deceased
• Reason for request
• Contact number
• Whether copies are to be used in Federal government claims. If so, each must be listed.

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Arizona

To obtain a death certificate from the state, the cost is $20.00. Payment methods accepted are Visa or Mastercard, cash, cashier’s check, traveler’s check, money order. Make payable to the “State Office of Vital Records.”

Death certificate searches may be performed at each County Health Department. Some counties may provide copies. The search fees are as follows:

• Apache County: $20.00
• Cochise County: $15.00
• Coconino County: $14.00
• Gila County: $20.00
• Graham County: $20.00
• Greenlee County: $20.00
• La Paz County: $15.00
• Maricopa County: $20.00
• Mohave County: $20.00
• Navajo County: $20.00
• Pima County: $20.00
• Pinal County: $20.00
• Santa Cruz County: $15.00
• Yavapai County: $20.00
• Yuma County: $15.00

Application Address

Office of Vital Records
Arizona Department of Health Services
P.O. Box 3887
Phoenix, AZ 85030-3887

Physical Address

Office of Vital Records
1818 W. Adams
Phoenix, AZ 85007

Phone/Fax

(602) 364-1300

Online Applications Information

https://azdhs.gov/licensing/vital-records/#online-ordering-options

State Specific Info

Valid Picture ID required.  Applications made in person must arrive before 4:00PM for service and certified copies will be mailed. There is no same day service.

Other Information

If requester lacks a photo ID, they must have the request notarized and include a stamped, self-addressed envelope with the request.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Arkansas

Those related by blood or marriage to the deceased may obtain a death certificate from the state of Arkansas, including their designated representatives and any who can provide proof they have a right to access. Records over 50 years in age are no longer public record and cannot be released to the public. Academic research groups also have access.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Arkansas

• Photo ID
• Deceased full name
• Date of death
• Location of death (city or county)
• Requester’s relationship
• Reason for request
• Funeral Home Name (optional)

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Arkansas

$10.00 for the first, $8.00 each after when ordered together. The initial $10.00 includes the search fee which, should no record be found is surrendered to the state. Anything in excess of that fee will be refunded. Fees associated with the Express Service online are non-refundable.

Arkansas accepts cash, checks and money orders made to: Arkansas Department of Health. Visa, M/C, Discover, or American Express also accepted.

Application Address

Arkansas Department of Health
Vital Records Section, Slot 44
4815 West Markham Street
Little Rock, AR 72205

Physical Address

Arkansas Department of Health
Vital Records Section, Slot 44
4815 West Markham Street
Little Rock, AR 72205

Phone/Fax

(501) 661-2336 or 866-209-9482

Online Applications Information

https://www.healthy.arkansas.gov/programs-services/topics/order-death-records

State Specific Info

Little Rock and Fort Smith records date to 1881. All others date to 1914.

Other Information

Applications for service at Arkansas Department of Health taken between 8:00AM and 4:00PM, Monday to Friday only. Overnight service available for additional charge.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in California

To obtain a certified copy of the death certificate from California, the applicant must be a parent or legal guardian, child, grandparent/child, sibling, spouse or domestic partner to the deceased. Other parties which may obtain a copy include law enforcement conducting official business, anyone with a court order stating they may receive a copy, the attorney or other authorized party representing the estate (such as Power of Attorney), or agent of a funerary establishment who orders on behalf of anyone listed above.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in California

• Name of deceased
• Sex of the deceased
• City of death
• County of death
• Date of death
• Date of birth
• Birth state
• Social security number
• Name of mother
• Name of spouse or domestic partner
• Name of applicant/requester
• Signature
• Mailing address
• Daytime phone
• Number of copies requested
• Reason for the request
• Notarized Sworn Statement

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in California

$21.00. Checks and money orders accepted, made out to CDPH Vital Records. No cash.

Application Address

CA Department of Public Health – Vital Records
MS: 5103
P.O. Box 997410
Sacramento, CA 95899-7410

Physical Address

CDPH, 1501 Capitol Ave #71, Sacramento, CA 95811

Phone/Fax

(916) 445-2684

Online Applications Information

https://www.vitalchek.com/death-certificates/california/california-vital-statistics

State Specific Info

For Certified Copies: The applicant must complete the sworn statement included with application, signed before a notary. Applications without this statement will not be processed. Law enforcement, local, and state agencies exempt.

Informational Copies do not require the notarized sworn statement.

Other Information

Starting November 1, 2013, certified copies are no longer embossed by California Department of Public Health Vital Records (CDPH).

Records dating to July 1905 are kept by the State Office. Records dating earlier may be available via the County Recorder where the death occurred.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Colorado

To obtain a certified copy of the death certificate from the state of Colorado, the requester must be:

• Relations such as parents, step-parents, grandparents, great-grandparents, siblings, spouse (former spouse may obtain with tangible proof of interest), grown children, grandchildren, step-children
• In-laws, aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews, cousins may obtain if required for the administration of the estate or other valid purposes
• Legal representatives of the family or the deceased
• Decedent’s personal physician
• Employer of the deceased
• Insurance company processing a life claim
• Probate researchers
• Genealogists on behalf of immediate family
• Creditors
• Informant listed on death certificate
• Anyone who can demonstrate a direct interest in protecting the rights of the deceased
• Funeral director

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Colorado

• Full name of deceased
• Place of death
• Date of death
• Date of application
• Reason for request
• Signature of applicant
• Relationship to deceased
• Applicant address
• Email address
• Daytime phone

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Colorado

$20.00 for initial copy, $13.00 for each additional copy if ordered together.

If ordering online, a $10.00 convenience fee will be added. FedEx or UPS delivery available for $20.00 (no charge for regular mail service).

Checks and money orders made out to: Vital Records Section

Application Address

Vital Records Section
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
4300 Cherry Creek Drive South
HSVRD-VS-A1
Denver, CO 80246-1530

Physical Address

Vital Records Section
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
4300 Cherry Creek Drive South
HSVRD-VS-A1
Denver, CO 80246-1530

Phone/Fax

(303) 692-2200

Fax info: Within continental U.S.: 800-423-1108
Outside continental U.S: 1-303-691-9307

Online Applications Information

https://www.colorado.gov/cdphe/categories/services-and-information/birth-death-and-other-records

State Specific Info

State records start in 1900. No records available prior to that date.

Other Information

Relationship proof will be required and may include any of the following:

• Citizenship certificate or ID card (I-197)
• Colorado Department of Corrections ID
• Temporary or permanent state-issued ID
• Alien Registration Receipt
• Permanent Resident Card
• Temporary Resident Card
• S. or Foreign Passport
• CA Form I-766: Employment Authorization Card
• School or University ID (current)
• B1/B2 Visa with I-94
• Certificate of Naturalization
• S. Military ID

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Connecticut

Anyone over 18 may obtain the death certificate as it is public record in the state of Connecticut.

To obtain a death certificate from the state of Connecticut, the requester must be an immediate family member, executor of the estate, the informant listed on the record including funeral director, embalmer, or physician certifying the event.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Connecticut

• Full name of deceased
• Date of death
• Father’s name
• Mother’s name
• Sex
• Spouse name
• Requester’s name
• Address of requester
• Phone number
• Email
• Relationship to deceased
• Purpose in requesting copy

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Connecticut

$20.00

Checks and money orders are to be made out to:

• Respective local agency providing the record (check or money order)
• Treasurer, State of Connecticut if requests sent to state Vital Records Office (postal money order only)

Application Address

CT Department of Public Health

Vital Records Office,

410 Capitol Ave.  MS#11VRS,

Hartford, CT  06134-0308

Physical Address

Department of Public Health

410 Capitol Avenue, MS #11 VRS

Hartford, CT 06134

Phone/Fax

(860) 509-7700 (12:00PM to 4:00PM only)

Online Applications Information

http://www.portal.ct.gov/DPH/Vital-Records/State-Vital-Records-Office–Home (No credit cards)

https://www.vitalchek.com/ or call 1-866-809-0839 (Credit cards accepted)

http://www.portal.ct.gov/DPH/Health-Information-Systems–Reporting/Vitalrecs/Connecticut-Town-Vital-Records-Directory (each city and town in Connecticut has its own vital records, from which copies may be obtained in person)

State Specific Info

Requests may also be sent to State Vital Records and some cities/town may provide certified copies locally.

Other Information

Death certificates after December 31, 2001 will not list the social security number, occupation, industry, race, level of education, and Hispanic origin for copies provided to the general public.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Delaware

To obtain a death certificate from the state of Delaware, the requester must be:

• Spouse (including civil union)
• Parent
• Child
• Legal Guardian
• Authorized representative of deceased

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Delaware

• Copy of current photo ID of requester
• Parents must provide proof of parentage
• Name on death certificate
• Date of death
• Place of death
• Sex
• Name of parents
• Applicant/requester name
• Relationship to deceased
• Street address of applicant
• Contact phone number

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Delaware

$25.00 for one certified copy.

Make checks or money orders out to: Office of Vital Statistics. No cash. No refunds.

Application Address

Office of Vital Statistics
Division of Public Health
417 Federal Street
Dover, DE 19901

Physical Addresses

Jesse S. Cooper Building
417 Federal Street
Dover, DE 19901
302-744-4549

Chopin Building
258 Chapman Road
Newark, DE 19702
302-283-7130

Thurman Adams State Service Center
546 S. Bedford Street
Georgetown, DE 19947
302-856-5495

Phone/Fax

(302) 744-4549

Online Applications Information

http://www.dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dph/ss/vitalstats.html

State Specific Info

State office records date to 1974. Records requests for death dates prior to this must be accessed in writing to the Archives Hall of Records, Dover, DE 19901.

Other Information

Photo ID required or if mailing application, include a copy of requester’s ID.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in DC

To obtain a death certificate from the Washington, DC a requester must be a parent, child, sibling, spouse, informant listed on death certificate, executor of the estate, or personal representative of the family member making the request.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in DC

• Full name of deceased
• Date of death
• Social security number
• Sex
• Death certificate number (if available)
• Requester’s name
• Address
• Phone number
• Relationship to deceased
• Government issued photo ID

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in DC

$18.00 for each copy.

Check or money order payable to: DC Treasurer. No cash. Fees are non-refundable.

Application Address

Government of the District of Columbia
Department of Health
Vital Records Division
899 North Capitol Street, NE, 1st Floor
Washington, D.C. 20002

Note: Return completed application along with the fees, and self-addressed, stamped business envelope

Physical Address

Vital Records Division
899 North Capitol Street NE, First Floor
Washington, DC 20002

Note: Office hours are M – F 8:30AM to 3:30PM.

Phone/Fax

(202) 671-5000

Online Applications Information

https://dchealth.dc.gov/service/death-certificates

State Specific Info

Records date to 1855 with the exception of years during Civil War, when no records were filed.

Other Information

Must provide proof of identity when making a request for a death certificate from Washington, DC.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Florida

Qualifications to obtain a death certificate in Florida are divided as…

• Without cause of death listed on death certificate, anyone 18+ may request
• With cause of death listed, Florida only issues the death record to a spouse, parent, child, grandchild, sibling, anyone legally acting on behalf of the same (such as a Funeral Director), or others with valid interest in the estate such as an attorney executing a will, an insurance carrier settling a claim, or other similar situations.
• No restrictions on records over 50 years

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Florida

• Name of deceased
• Place of death (city or town and county)
• Date of death
• Surviving spouse
• Social security number
• Sex
• State file number (if available)
• Name of Funeral Home
• Requester’s name
• Mailing address
• Phone
• Relationship to deceased

Must include documents proving eligibility or a notarized DH Form 1959 (Affidavit to Release Cause of Death Information).

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Florida

$5.00 for initial copy, $4.00 for each ordered at the same time.

Payments by check or money order should be made out to: Bureau of Vital Statistics.

Orders placed before noon will receive same day services; after noon, copies may be retrieved after 10:00AM the following business day.

Application Address

Department of Health
Bureau of Vital Statistics
P.O. Box 210
Jacksonville, FL 32231-0042

Physical Address

Department of Health
Bureau of Vital Statistics
1217 Pearl Street
Jacksonville, FL 32231-0042

Phone/Fax

(904) 359-6900

Online Applications Information

http://www.floridahealth.gov/certificates/certificates/birth/index.html

State Specific Info

Florida provides death certificates for both deaths and fetal deaths. Fetal deaths are defined as occurring between 20 weeks of gestation and birth (unless born live).

Other Information

If no records are found during initial search, the Bureau of Vital Statistics will issue a “No Record Found” statement to requester. A search of additional years may be performed for $5.00 (first year) and $2.00 each additional year (maximum $50.00 charge).

In records dating less than 50 years, the cause of death is confidential.

Records date to 1877 (limited) and 1917 (complete).

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Georgia

Only direct family members, their legal representatives, or those with a tangible and direct interest may obtain copies of the death certificate in the state of Georgia.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Georgia

• Full name of deceased
• Place of death (city, county)
• Date of death
• Age of deceased
• Sex
• Race (optional)
• Requester’s relationship to deceased
• Number of requested copies

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Georgia

$25.00 initial copy; $5.00 for each additional copy ordered at the same time.

Certified check or money orders payable to: Georgia Department of Public Health. No cash or personal checks.

Application Address

Georgia Department of Public Health
Vital Records
1680 Phoenix Blvd., Suite 100
Atlanta, GA 30349

Physical Address

Georgia Department of Public Health
Vital Records
1680 Phoenix Blvd., Suite 100
Atlanta, GA 30349

Hours are 8:00AM to 4:45PM M – F. Closed weekends and holidays.

Phone/Fax

(404) 679-4702

Online Applications Information

https://dph.georgia.gov/VitalRecords

State Specific Info

Georgia state records date to January 1919. Earlier records may be obtained by writing to the County Vital Records Office in which the death occurred.

Other Information

To apply by mail, a requester can simply write the Information Needed on plain paper and mail to State Vital Records at the address shown above.

Records may also be obtained at the health office in the county wherein the death occurred.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Hawaii

Persons and entities permitted to obtain a death certificate in the state of Hawaii include the spouse, parents, direct decedent or common ancestry, legal guardian of deceased, a legal or personal representative of the deceased or the estate, adoptive parents, persons needing information related to joint-owned properties and tenancies, anyone handling a life insurance settlement, or anyone obtaining a court order to obtain.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Hawaii

• Full name of deceased as written on death certificate
• Date of death
• City/town where death occurred including the Island
• Requester’s relationship to deceased
• Purpose of the request/Why needed?
• Copy of valid state/government issued ID
• The death certificate file number if known

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Hawaii

$10.00 for first copy, $4.00 for each additional copy when ordered together.

Money Order, certified checks, and cashier’s checks made out to: State Department of Health. No personal checks. No cash. No refunds.

Application Address

State Department of Health
Office of Health Status Monitoring
Vital Records Section
P.O. Box 3378
Honolulu, HI 96801-9984

Physical Address

Health Department building Room 103
1250 Punchbowl Street
Honolulu, HI 96813

Hours: 7:45AM to 2:30PM M – F. No holidays.

Phone/Fax

(808) 586-4533

Online Applications Information

http://health.hawaii.gov/vitalrecords/

State Specific Info

Allow 10 business days AFTER approval of application to retrieve copies of death certificate. Older records may take longer. If expedited service is needed, requester must provide written evidence of the need for urgency.

Other Information

Records in the Hawaii State office date to as early as 1862.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Idaho

Those who may obtain a death certificate in the state of Idaho must be immediate family members (spouse, children, parents, siblings, grandparents/children) or their legal representatives. Others who can provide documents demonstrating a valid need (property rights) to obtain a death certificate may do so.

The requester may be required to provide proof of the relationship. Those outside the immediate family are not permitted to obtain the record. These include aunts/uncles, cousins, in-laws, great-grandparents, and others related, though indirectly.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Idaho

• Full name of deceased
• Date of death
• City of death
• Requester’s name
• Address
• Phone number
• Relationship to deceased
• Purpose of death certificate
• Front and back copy of Requester’s ID (Approved forms include State ID, Driver’s license, passport. Tribal ID, Prison ID, Concealed Weapons Permit)

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Idaho

$16.00 for Computer Generated copies; $21.00 for Photo Copy; $16.00 for additional photo copies purchased together.

Checks or money orders made out to: Idaho Vital Statistics. No cash. Fees are non-refundable.

Application Address

Vital Records Unit
Bureau of Vital Records and Health Statistics
P.O. Box 83720
Boise, ID 83720-0036

Physical Address

450 W State St, Boise, ID 83702

Phone/Fax

(208) 334-5988

Online Applications Information

http://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/?TabId=82

State Specific Info

State office has some records dating to July 1911. Records from 1907 to 1911, may be obtained by writing the County Recorder where the death occurred. Records are confidential for 50 years by law.

Other Information

Orders may be expedited for an additional $5.00 fee per order. Print neatly “RUSH” on the exterior of the envelope when mailing and include a prepaid express mail envelope unless regular mail is acceptable.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Illinois

The state of Illinois strongly restricts access to death certificates. Only those with a direct personal tie or property rights interest may obtain a copy. Non-relatives of the deceased must provide a letter from the agency which needs the record with the request. Uncertified copies are made available after 20 years to genealogical researchers.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Illinois

• Full name of the deceased
• Date of death
• City and county where death occurred
• Parents names
• Relationship of requester to the deceased
• Reason for the request
• Copy of ID.

In lieu of a state issued ID, a requester must submit two documents; one must show current address such as mail or a bill. The other must be one of the following:

• Insurance card (car or medical)
• Credit card statement
• Voter’s registration card
• Paycheck stub
• Auto registration
• Bank statement
• Military ID (active duty only)
• Public assistance card

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Illinois

$19.00 for a certified copy; each additional copy when ordered together costs $4.00.

$10.00 for a genealogical copy; each additional copy when ordered together costs $2.00. (Only available for records dating 20 years back.)

Checks and money orders made out to: Illinois Department of Public Health.

Application Address

Division of Vital Records
Illinois Department of Public Health
925 E Ridgely Avenue
Springfield, IL 62702

Physical Address

Division of Vital Records
Illinois Department of Public Health
925 E Ridgely Avenue
Springfield, IL 62702

Hours: 10:00AM to 3:00PM.

Phone/Fax

(217) 782-6553

Fax: 217-523-2648 (if faxing application, include on the cover sheet Credit Card number and Expiration Date; Daytime phone number; return address; requester’s signature; copy of ID)

Online Applications Information

http://www.dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/birth-death-other-records/death-records/obtain-death-certificate#forms-forms

State Specific Info

The state office has records dating to January 1916. For earlier records and for copies of State records since January 1916, write to County Clerk where the death occurred (fees vary).

Other Information

Certified copies of a death certificate may also be obtained from the county clerk’s office where the death occurred.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Indiana

The law in the state of Indiana restricts who may obtain a death certificate as one who has a direct interest. Direct interest means there is a personal, legal, or financial interest in the record. Immediate family members such as parents, children, spouses, grandparents, and siblings have a direct interest.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Indiana

• Full name of deceased
• Date of death
• City and County of death
• Date of birth
• Name of father and maiden name of mother
• Name of requester
• Mailing address
• Phone number
• Number of copies requested
• Total fees
• Delivery preference
• Copy of ID (must match address on application or request will be denied)
• Proof of relationship may be required

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Indiana

$8.00 for the initial certified copy; $400 for each additional copy ordered with the first.

Make checks or money orders out to: Indiana State Department of Health. No cash. Fees are non-refundable.

Application Address

Vital Records
Indiana State Department of Health
P.O. Box 7125
Indianapolis, IN 46206-7125

Physical Address

2 N Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46204

Phone/Fax

(317) 233-2700

Online Applications Information

https://www.in.gov/isdh/26822.htm

State Specific Info

The state office death records date to January 1900. Earlier records may be obtained by contacting the Health Officer in the county or city where the death occurred.

Other Information

Certified copies of the death certificate may also be obtained via the county clerk where the death occurred.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Iowa

The qualifications to obtain a death certificate in the state of Iowa include spouses, children, parents, grandparents, grandchildren, brothers and sisters, and legal representatives.

Legal guardians, representatives, and siblings are required to prove their relationship with the deceased.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Iowa

• Name of deceased
• Place of death
• Date of death
• Mother’s full maiden name
• Father’s full name
• Reason for the request
• Requester’s name
• Address
• Phone number
• Date of birth of applicant (requester)
• Photocopy of ID

NOTE: The application signature must be notarized.

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Iowa

$20.00 to search for a record; includes one certified copy or notice of the search. Additional copies are $15.00 each when ordered at the same time as the original.

Make checks and money orders payable to: Iowa Department of Public Health, no cash, unless request is made in person. Phone orders must be paid by major credit card and incur an additional $9.00 fee.

Application Address

Iowa Department of Public Health
Bureau of Health Statistics
Lucas State Office Building, 1st Floor
Des Moines, Iowa 50319-0075

Physical Address

Iowa Department of Public Health
Bureau of Health Statistics
Lucas Office Building
321 East 12th Street
Des Moines, IA 50319-0075

Hours: 7:00AM to 4:45PM M – F; closed holidays.

Phone/Fax

515-281-4944

Online Applications Information

https://idph.iowa.gov/health-statistics/request-record

State Specific Info

State of Iowa provides records dating to July 1880.

Other Information

Allow two days for pickup of death certificate upon placing order.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Kansas

The state of Kansas makes death certificates available only to direct family members, legal representatives, or those with a provable direct interest such as a business partner or beneficiary of an insurance policy. Proof of representation, interest, or written authorization is must be provided unless the requestor is named on the death certificate (as informant) or an immediate family relation.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Kansas

• Name of deceased
• Place of death (city, county)
• Date of death
• Sex
• Marital status at death
• Name of Spouse
• Date of birth (or age)
• Place of birth
• Location of interment (burial)
• Requester’s name
• Mailing Address
• Phone number
• Reason for request
• Relationship to deceased
• Photocopy of ID (Driver’s license, state ID, Passport, Visa, Military ID)

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Kansas

$15.00 for initial copy; $15.00 each additional copy ordered at the same time.

Make checks or money orders out to: Kansas Vital Statistics. Cash accepted for in-person orders. Also accepts credit cards.

Application Address

Office of Vital Statistics
Curtis State Office Building
1000 SW Jackson Street, Suite 120
Topeka, Kansas 66612-2221

Physical Address

Office of Vital Statistics
Curtis State Office Building
1000 SW Jackson Street, Suite 120
Topeka, Kansas 66612-2221

Office Hours: 9:00AM to 4:00PM M – F

Phone/Fax

(785) 296-1400 or 785-296-3253.

NOTE: Requests by phone require a credit card to process order. Phone hours are 8:00AM to 4:00PM M – F

Online Applications Information

http://www.kdheks.gov/vital/

State Specific Info

The state of Kansas has records dating to July 1911. Searches for older records may be performed by writing to the County Clear where the death occurred.

Other Information

Applicant must include a copy of ID along with the handwritten signature.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Kentucky

Qualifications to obtain a death certificate in Kentucky is simple: Anyone may do so.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Kentucky

• Full name of deceased
• Place of death
• Date of death
• Attending physician
• Funerary provider
• Requestor’s name
• Address
• Phone number
• Relationship to deceased
• Number of copies ordered

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Kentucky

$6.00 for initial copy; additional copies are $6.00.

Checks and money orders should be made to: Kentucky State Treasurer. No cash. Fees are non-refundable.

Application Address

Office of Vital Statistics
Department for Public Health
Cabinet for Health and Family Services
275 East Main Street 1E-A
Frankfort, KY 40621

Physical Address

Office of Vital Statistics
Department for Public Health
Cabinet for Health and Family Services
275 East Main Street 1E-A
Frankfort, KY 40621

Phone/Fax

(502) 564-4212

Online Applications Information

http://chfs.ky.gov/dph/vital.htm

State Specific Info

The state of Kentucky started collecting records in January 1911.

Other Information

When making requests in person, same-day issuance is available from 8:00AM to 3:30PM, M – F.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Louisiana

Louisiana is strict about who received a death certificate. Only a surviving spouse, adult child, parent, grandparent, adult grandchild, sibling, legal guardian, or beneficiary of a life insurance policy may obtain the death certificate.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Louisiana

• Full name of deceased
• Date of death
• Date of birth
• City and Parish of death
• City and Parish of birth
• Sex
• Father’s name and Mother’s maiden name
• Requester’s name
• Address Relationship to deceased
• Copy of current state or other government Photo ID

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Louisiana

$7.00; $7.50 if mailed.

Checks and money orders made payable to: Bureau of Vital Records and Statistics. No cash. Fees are non-refundable.

Application Address

Louisiana Department of Health
P.O. Box 629
Baton Rouge, LA 70821-0629

Physical Address

628 N. 4th Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70802

Phone/Fax

Ph: 225-342-9500

Fax: 225-342-5568

Online Applications Information

http://ldh.la.gov/index.cfm/subhome/21

State Specific Info

The Louisiana Bureau of Vital Records keeps death records on file for 50 years. Death records over than 50 years are stored in the Louisiana State Archives. The address of the archives is PO Box 94125, Baton Rouge, LA 70804.

Other Information

Many Parishes in Louisiana provide death certificates via the local Health Department. Check the OPH Vital Records directory to find one near you.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Maine

Those seeking a death certificate in the state of Maine are closely restricted. A spouse of domestic partner, the parents, any direct descendant, the legal guardian or authorized representative of the deceased, or registered genealogists may obtain a certified death record.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Maine

• Name of deceased
• Date of death
• City of death
• Requester’s relationship to deceased
• Phone number
• Copy of government issued photo ID
• Business-size stamped, self-addressed envelope

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Maine

$15.00 certified copy; $10.00 non-certified copy; additional copies when ordered together are $6.00 each.

Checks and Money Orders are to made out to: Treasurer, State of Maine. No credit cards or online orders are accepted. However, Maine accepts requests through VitalChek which does accept major credit cards.

Application Address

Vital Records
244 Water Street, SHS #11
Augusta, ME 04333-0011

Physical Address

Vital Records
244 Water Street, SHS #11
Augusta, ME 04333-0011

Phone/Fax

(207) 287-3181 or 1-888-664-9491

Online Applications Information

http://www.maine.gov/dhhs/mecdc/public-health-systems/data-research/vital-records/order/index.shtml

http://www.maine.gov/sos/arc/research/vitalrec.html (Archives)

State Specific Info

State office records date to 1923. Records dating back from there to 1892 are found in the Maine State Archives. Earlier records may be obtained by writing to the city/town where the death occurred.

Other Information

Note to genealogists: The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention must issue a researcher card to gain access to death records. The mailing address is: Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 11 State House Station, 220 Capitol Street, Augusta, ME 04333-0011

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Maryland

To obtain a death certificate from the state of Maryland, one must be either a surviving relative or their authorized representative, a Funeral Director managing the final disposition of the deceased, or an individual who can prove their legal need to obtain the record.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Maryland

• Name of deceased
• Date of death
• Age at death
• Place of death
• Sex
• Name of Funeral Service
• Name of Requester
• Relationship to deceased
• Address
• Phone number
• Email
• Copy of current government photo ID
• Reason for request
• Self-addressed stamped envelop

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Maryland

$12.00 for the first copy; $12.00 for each additional ordered at the same time.

Check or money order made payable to: Division of Vital Records. No cash. Fees are non-refundable.

Application Address

Division of Vital Records
Department of Health
P.O. Box 68760
Baltimore, MD 21215-2306

Physical Address

Division of Vital Records
Department of Health
6764-B Reisterstown Road
Baltimore, MD 21215-2306

Phone/Fax

(410) 764-3038

Online Applications Information

https://health.maryland.gov/vsa/Pages/death.aspx

State Specific Info

If application is made in person, certificates can be received the same day if valid photo identification is provided. The time if mailed is 3-4 weeks.

Other Information

If there are errors on an existing death or fetal death certificate, contact the Division of Vital Records to request information on making needed corrections.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Massachusetts

The state of Massachusetts has no restrictions on who can obtain a death certificate.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Massachusetts

• Name of deceased
• Date of death
• City/Town of death
• Spouse’s name
• Father’s name
• Mother’s name
• Social Security number of deceased
• Requester’s relationship to deceased
• Requester’s Address
• Business-size envelope, self-addressed

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Massachusetts

$20.00 in-person; $32.00 for mail requests; $3.00 for state archives requests.

Check or money order made payable to: Commonwealth of Massachusetts. No cash. Fees non-refundable.

Application Address

Registry of Vital Records and Statistics
150 Mount Vernon Street
1st Floor
Dorchester, MA 02125-3105

Physical Address

Registry of Vital Records and Statistics
150 Mount Vernon Street
1st Floor
Dorchester, MA 02125-3105

Phone/Fax

(617) 740-2600

Online Applications Information

https://www.mass.gov/orgs/registry-of-vital-records-and-statistics

State Specific Info

The Maine Registry of Vital Records only holds death records dating to 1926. For records dating before then, write or call: The Massachusetts Archives at Columbia Point, 220 Morrissey Boulevard, Boston, MA 02125 (617) 727-2816.

Other Information

Expedited service by mail is provided for an additional fee of $37.00 per copy.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Michigan

There are no restrictions regarding who may obtain a death certificate in the state of Michigan.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Michigan

• Name of deceased
• Date of death
• Age at death
• Place of death
• Date of birth
• Place of birth
• Social Security number
• Father’s name
• Mother’s name
• Sex
• Name of Requester
• Relationship to deceased
• Address
• Phone number
• Reason for request

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Michigan

$34.00; add $12.00 for expedited (rush) orders. Additional orders at time of initial purchase are $16.00 for each certificate.

Check or money order made payable to: State of Michigan. Cash and Credit Cards not accepted. Search fees non-refundable; the fee to search is $34.00 and provides one (1) certified copy. If no record is found, any additional fees paid beyond the search fee (such as for additional copies) will be refunded.

Application Address

Vital Records Request
P.O. Box 30721
Lansing, MI 48909

Physical Address

333 S Grand Ave, Lansing, MI 48909

Phone/Fax

(517) 335-8656 (recorded message only)

517-335-8666 (customer service) select Option #4.

Online Applications Information

https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/0,5885,7-339-71551_4645_6245—,00.html

State Specific Info

State records date to 1867. Between 1867 and 1897, death records were not filed on a state level, so some records may be found locally.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Minnesota

To obtain a certified copy of the death certificate in Minnesota, the requester must be child, parent, sibling, spouse, grandparent/child of the deceased or their personal representative. The person responsible for death record filing may make a request, as can a successor of the estate, any trustee(s), adoption agency representatives, an attorney, representatives of government bodies, and anyone who believes they have a right to obtain the record and can provide legal proof of the claim.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Minnesota

• Name of deceased
• Date of death
• Date of birth
• Place of death (city and county)
• Name of Spouse
• Mother and Father’s name
• Name of Requester
• Relationship to deceased
• Requester date of birth
• Address
• Phone number
• Email
• Copy of current government photo ID
• Reason for request
• Notarized signature
• Whether cause of death is to be included on the copy or not

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Minnesota

$13.00 to search and provide one (1) certified copy; each additional copy ordered at the same time is $6.00. Expedited service add $20.00.

Checks and money orders payable to: Minnesota Department of Health. No cash. Fees non-refundable.

Credit Cards accepted for fax or mail-in requests (Visa, Mastercard, Discover only).

Application Address

Minnesota Department of Health
Central Cashiering – Vital Records
P.O. Box 64499
St Paul, MN 55164

Physical Addresses

Bemidji, Northwestern District
705 – 5th Street NW, Suite A
Bemidji, MN 56601-2933
218-308-2100

Duluth, Northeastern District
Duluth Technology Village
11 East Superior Street, Suite 290
Duluth, MN 55802-2007
218-302-6166

Fergus Falls, West Central District
1505 Pebble Lake Road, Suite 300
Fergus Falls, MN 56537-3858
218-332-5150

Mankato, South Central District
Mankato Place
12 Civic Center Plaza, Suite 2105
Mankato, MN  56001-7789
507-344-2700

Marshall, Southwestern District
1400 East Lyon Street
Marshall, MN 56258
507-476-4220

Rochester, Southeastern District
18 Wood Lake Drive Southeast
Rochester, MN 55904
507-206-2700

St. Cloud, Central District
Minnesota Department of Health
Midtown Square
3333 West Division Street, Suite 212
St. Cloud, MN  56301-4557
320-223-7300

Phone/Fax

Phone: (651) 201-5970

Fax: (651) 201-5740

Online Applications Information

http://www.health.state.mn.us/macros/topics/certificates.html

State Specific Info

A personal representative of the family seeking a death certificate in the state of Minnesota must include a sworn affidavit attesting that the copy is needed to the administration of estate-related duties). A trustee or successor likewise.

Other Information

Death records date to January 1908. Local Registrar’s also have access to and can provide copies of death records.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Mississippi

To obtain a certified copy of the death certificate in Mississippi, one must be the parents listed on the record, spouse, siblings, grandparents/children, a legal guardian of the deceased, legal representative, funeral home which took possession of the deceased, the informant listed on the certificate, or others with a valid court order permitting them access.

In all cases, the individuals making request will be require to show proof of the relationship or legal standing.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Mississippi

• Name of deceased
• Date of death
• Age at death
• Place of death
• Sex
• Race
• Social security number
• State file number
• Father and Mother’s names
• Name of Funeral Director
• Name of Requester
• Relationship to deceased
• Address
• Phone number
• Copy of current government photo ID
• Reason for request
• Self-addressed stamped envelop

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Mississippi

$17.00; Additional copies of same record at same time of order $6.00 each.

Personal check, bank or postal money order, cashier’s check accepted and made payable to: Mississippi State Department of Health. No cash. Fees non-refundable except when no fees are located; the $17.00 search fee, which includes one (1) copy, is non-refundable, but excess fees such as for extra copies will be returned.

Application Address

Mississippi State Department of Health
Vital Records
P.O. Box 1700
Jackson, MS 39215-1700

Physical Address

You may request a certified death certificate in person at:
222 Marketridge Dr
Ridgeland, MS

Hours: 8:00AM to 5:00PM. No same-day service.

Phone/Fax

(601) 206-8200

Online Applications Information

https://msdh.ms.gov/msdhsite/_static/31,0,109.html#Death

State Specific Info

Mississippi uses VitalChek for phone and online orders. Learn more by visiting MSDH here.

Other Information

Death records in Mississippi date to 1912.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Missouri

Missouri does not restrict who may obtain a certified copy of the death certificate.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Missouri

• Name of deceased
• Date of death
• Place of death
• Sex
• Race
• Name of Spouse
• Father name
• Mother name
• Name of Requester
• Relationship to deceased
• Address
• Phone number
• Copy of current government photo ID
• Reason for request
• Notarized signature
• Self-addressed stamped envelope (legal size)

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Missouri

$13.00 to search, includes one (1) copy of death record; additional copies at time of initial purchase cost $10.00 each.

Checks or money orders payable to: Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. No cash. Fees non-refundable.

Application Address

Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services
Bureau of Vital Records
P.O. Box 570
Jefferson City, MO 65102-0570

Physical Address

Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services
Bureau of Vital Records
930 Wildwood
Jefferson City, MO 65102-0570

Phone/Fax

(573) 751-6387

Online Applications Information

https://health.mo.gov/data/vitalrecords/applications.php

State Specific Info

The state of Missouri has death records dating to January 1910. Deaths prior to 1910 in St. Louis City or County and Kansas City may be available by writing to the locale Health Department.

Other Information

Certified copies of most Missouri birth and death records are also available from local county health department or the Recorder of Deeds in St. Louis City.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Montana

To obtain a certified copy of the death certificate in the state of Montana, one need only provide the completed application, provide proof of their identity, and their reason for obtaining.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Montana

• Name of deceased
• Date of death
• Date of birth
• Place of death
• Place of birth
• Name of parents
• Name of Spouse
• Occupation
• Number of copies needed
• Reason for request

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Montana

$15.00 for initial copy; $8.00 each thereafter if ordered at the same time.

Check or money order made payable to: Montana Vital Records.

Application Address

Office of Vital Statistics
MT Dept. of Public Health and Human Services
P.O. Box 4210
Helena, MT 59604

Physical Address

Office of Vital Statistics
MT Dept. of Public Health and Human Services
111 N Sanders, Rm. 6
Helena, MT 59604

Phone/Fax

406-444-2685

Online Applications Information

https://dphhs.mt.gov/vitalrecords/contacts

State Specific Info

Montana death records date to 1907.

Other Information

Applicants must provide a clear and readable copy of both sides of their current driver’s license or other current government issued identification with signature. If not available, applicant must either provide a clear and readable copy of two other forms of current identification with one having a signature or have their request notarized.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Nebraska

The state of Nebraska has extensive, yet specific qualifications for obtaining a death certificate. Those who may obtain a certified copy of the death record include legal parents, spouse, children, their attorney, legal guardian, conservator, custodian, or personal representative, the executor of the estate, and those who can demonstrate their legal authority to represent the deceased.

The requester must provide…

• Proof of identity
• The need to legally transfer titles to real property
• The need to obtain government services or other documents related to the death
• Their qualifications and identity as a medical or scientific researcher
• Their position in law enforcement or other governing body and the reason for the request
• Their proof of qualification as a genealogical or historical researcher
• Their media credentials

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Nebraska

• Name of deceased
• Date of death
• Place of death
• Place of birth
• Date of birth
• Name of spouse
• Parent’s names (incl. mother’s maiden)
• Funeral director
• Name of Requester
• Relationship to deceased
• Address
• Phone number
• Copy of current government photo ID
• Reason for request

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Nebraska

$16.00 to search and provide one (1) certified copy.

Check or money order made payable to: Vital Records Office. No cash. Fees non-refundable.

Application Address

Nebraska Vital Records
P.O. Box 95065
Lincoln, NE 68509-5065

Physical Address

301 Centennial Mall South, Lincoln, Nebraska 68509

Phone/Fax

(402) 471-2871

Online Applications Information

http://dhhs.ne.gov/publichealth/Pages/ced_decert.aspx

State Specific Info

Nebraska state records of death date to 1904.

Other Information

All requests must include a photocopy of the requestor’s valid government issued photo identification.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Nevada

The state of Nevada is strict on whom may obtain a death certificate. Only a direct family member through blood or marriage, a legal guardian, or a legal representative may obtain the death record.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Nevada

• Name of deceased
• Date of death
• Social security number
• Place of death
• Father’s name
• Mother’s maiden name
• Name of Funeral Service
• Name of Requester
• Relationship to deceased
• Mailing address
• Copy of current government photo ID
• Reason for request/legal need

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Nevada

$20.00; Additional copies $20.00.

Check or money order made payable to: Office of Vital Records. No cash. Fees non-refundable.

Application Address

Office of Vital Records
4150 Technology Way, Suite 104
Carson City, NV 89706

Physical Address

Office of Vital Records
4150 Technology Way, Suite 104
Carson City, NV 89706

Phone/Fax

(775) 684-4242

Online Applications Information

http://dpbh.nv.gov/Programs/BirthDeath/Birth_and_Death_Vital_Records_-_Home/

State Specific Info

Nevada death records date to July 1911. Earlier records may be obtained by contacting the County Recorder where the death occurred.

Other Information

The applicant MUST include a copy of a photo ID with the request and proof of relationship to verify direct and tangible interest.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in New Hampshire

The qualifications to obtain a death certificate in the state of New Hampshire are simple: There are no restrictions. However, the applicant must demonstrate a direct, tangible interest in the record.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in New Hampshire

• Name of deceased
• Date of death
• Place of death
• Sex
• Name of Requester
• Relationship to deceased
• Address
• Phone number
• Email
• Copy of current government photo ID
• Reason for request
• Whether cause of death is to be included on certificate or not
• Self-addressed stamped envelope (business size)

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in New Hampshire

$15.00; additional copies ordered at same time $10.00 each.

Check or money order payable to: Treasurer, State of New Hampshire. No cash. Fees non-refundable.

Application Address

Division of Vital Records Administration
Archives Building
71 South Fruit Street
Concord, NH 03301-2410

Physical Address

Division of Vital Records Administration
Archives Building
71 South Fruit Street
Concord, NH 03301-2410

Phone/Fax

(603) 271-4651

Online Applications Information

http://sos.nh.gov/WorkArea/DownloadAsset.aspx?id=50459

State Specific Info

New Hampshire state death records date to 1654. Records since 1990 may be obtained via any City or Town using Vital Records Automated software (NHVRIN).

Other Information

Copies of records may be obtained from State office or from City or Town Clerk where death occurred.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in New Jersey

In New Jersey, a state or local Registrar may issue a certified copy of a vital record only to persons who establish themselves as

• The subject of the vital record
• The subject’s parent
• Legal guardian
• Legal representative
• Spouse
• Child
• Grandchild
• Sibling
• Government entities for official purposes
• Title company, insurance company, or bank needing the document for official purposes

All other applicants will be issued a certification that states the document is not for identification or legal purposes.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in New Jersey

• Name of deceased
• Date of death
• Place of death
• Mother and Father name
• Name of Requester
• Relationship to deceased
• Proof of relationship
• Mailing Address (must match ID)
• Phone number
• Copy of current government photo ID
• Reason for request
• Number of copies requested

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in New Jersey

$25.00 for first copy, $2.00 each for additional copies ordered at same time.

Make checks and money orders payable to:

Application Address

Office of Vital Statistics & Registry
NJ Department of Health
P.O. Box 370
Trenton, NJ 08625-0370

Physical Address

Customer Service Unit
H & A Building, 5th Floor
Warren and Market Streets
Trenton, NJ 08625

Phone/Fax

866-649-8726

Online Applications Information

http://www.state.nj.us/health/vital/

State Specific Info

All requests must include a copy of the requestor’s valid identification, payment, and proof of their relationship to the deceased.

Other Information

New Jersey has death records dating to 1918. Vital records dating May 1848 – 1917 may be found by visiting the NJ state archives.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in New Mexico

In the state of New Mexico, parents, siblings, children, spouse (current only), maternal grandparent (paternal, if father is included in the vital record), and anyone with proof of legal interest may obtain a death certificate.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in New Mexico

• Name of deceased
• Date of death
• Place of death
• Social security number (optional)
• Date of birth (optional)
• Funeral home (optional)
• Name of Requester
• Relationship to deceased
• Address
• Phone number
• Copy of current government photo ID
• Reason for request

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in New Mexico

$5.00 initial copy, $5.00 each copy thereafter.

Certified check or money order payable to: NM Vital Records. No cash. No refunds.

Application Address

New Mexico Vital Records
P.O. Box 25767
Albuquerque, NM 87125

Physical Address

1105 S. St. Francis Drive
Santa Fe, NM 87505

Phone/Fax

866-534-0051

Online Applications Information

https://nmhealth.org/about/erd/bvrhs/vrp/death/

State Specific Info

When requesting a death certificate via U.S. mail, either fill out the form and mail it or send a letter with specific information.

Other Information

New Mexico death records are complete to 1920; from 1880 to 1920, records may be available.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in New York/NYC

Those requesting death certificates from New York State or New York City must be closely related by blood, have a documented legal right to the document, a documented medical reason for the request, or are following a court order. Anyone who is not the spouse, parent, or child of the deceased must provide proof of their valid and lawful need for the document.

In New York City, an authorized representative must have a notarized statement to that effect. Some of the documents that will establish a valid need include insurance policies, a will, bank statement, property deed, or similar document demonstrating a valid connection and lawful need for the certificate.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in NY/NYC

• Name of deceased
• Date of death
• Date of birth (NY state only)
• Age at death
• Place of death
• Sex
• Borough (NYC only)
• Spouse or domestic partner (NYC only)
• Last known address (NYC only)
• Occupation of deceased (NYC only)
• Father name
• Mother maiden name
• Social security number
• Certificate number (if known)
• Local registration number (NY state only)
• Name of Requester
• Relationship to deceased
• Capacity in which requester is acting (NY state only)
• Mailing address (NYC only)
• Phone number (NYC only)
• Email (NYC only)
• Copy of current government photo ID
• Reason for request
• Whether cause of death is to be listed or not
• Notarized signature (if request is via mail)

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in New York/NYC

$30.00 New York State; $15.00 NYC. Additional copies via the state are $15.00 each; NYC additional copies are $3.00. To be eligible for the reduced cost on copies, these must be obtained at the time the initial copy is ordered.

Check or money order payable to: New York State Department of Health or NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene depending on whether death occurred within or outside the NYC boroughs listed in State Specific Info.

No cash accepted. No refunds.

Payment of mail order copies submitted from foreign countries must be made by a check drawn on a United States bank or by an international money order.

Application Address

NY State: 

New York State Department of Health
Vital Records Section
Certification Unit
P.O. Box 2602
Albany, NY 12220-2602

NYC:

NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene
Office of Vital Records
125 Worth Street, CN-4, Room 133
New York, NY 10013

Physical Address

NY State:

New York State Department of Health
Vital Records Section
Certification Unit
800 North Pearl Street
Menands, NY 12204

NYC:

NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene
Office of Vital Records
125 Worth Street, Room 133
New York, NY 10013

Phone/Fax

NY State: 855-322-1022

NYC: 311 or 212 NEW-YORK (212-639-9675)

Online Applications Information

New York state: https://www.health.ny.gov/vital_records/death.htm

New York City: https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/services/death-certificates.page

State Specific Info

NYC information applies to residents living in one of the five boroughs: The Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, Staten Island.

For all types of State and local issued copies, the applicant is required to provide government issued photo identification.

Other Information

State death records date to 1881; NYC has records dating to 1949. For records dating before these, contact the Registrar of Vital Statistics in the city where the death occurred.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in North Carolina

To obtain a certified death certificate from the state of North Carolina, one must be the spouse, sibling, child, parent (including step), grandparent, authorized agent, attorney, or representative of the deceased. Proof of ties to the decedent is required.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in North Carolina

• Name of deceased
• Date of death
• Age at death
• Place of death
• Date of birth
• Name of Requester
• Relationship to deceased
• Mailing address
• Phone number
• Copy of current government photo ID
• Reason for request

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in North Carolina

$24.00 for initial copy; $15.00 each additional when ordered together. Expedited (mail) or in-person same day service fee is $15.00.

Business or certified check or money order payable to: NC Vital Records. Cash accepted if ordered in person. Fees are non-refundable.

Application Address

NC Vital Records
1903 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1903

Physical Address

North Carolina Vital Records (Cooper Memorial Health Building)
225 N. McDowell St.
Raleigh, NC 27603-1382

Phone/Fax

(919) 733-3000

Online Applications Information

http://vitalrecords.nc.gov/order.htm

State Specific Info

The Register of Deeds in the county where the death occurred can also provide copies of death certificates upon request.

Other Information

Records of death in North Carolina date to 1930.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in North Dakota

Those obtaining a death certificate in North Dakota must be either the spouse, parent or legal guardian, grandparent/child, child, authorized representative, Funeral director, Child Fatality Review Board, or someone having a court order.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in North Dakota

• Name of deceased
• Date of death
• Place of death
• Sex
• Name of Requester
• Relationship to deceased
• Mailing address
• Phone number
• Copy of current government photo ID
• Shipping instructions
• Signature

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in North Dakota

$5.00; additional copies ordered at same time $2.00 each.

Check or money order payable to: ND Department of Health. No cash. Fees non-refundable.

Expedited service is provided for an additional $16.00 (add $6.00 if mailing to Alaska or Hawaii). Credit Cards Visa, M/C, and Discover accepted.

Application Address

ND Department of Health
Division of Vital Records
600 East Boulevard Avenue, Dept. 301
Bismarck, ND 58505-0200

Physical Address

ND Department of Health
Division of Vital Records
600 East Boulevard Avenue, Room 118
Bismarck, ND 58505-0200

Phone/Fax

(701) 328-2360

Online Applications Information

http://www.ndhealth.gov/vital/death.htm

State Specific Info

the North Dakota State office has records dating to July 1893. Years from 1894 to 1920 are incomplete.

Other Information

Copies are generally processed within 3-5 working days after request is received.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Ohio

Anyone may request a certified death certificate from the state of Ohio.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Ohio

• Name of deceased
• Date of death
• Date of birth
• Place of death
• Place of birth
• Mother maiden name
• Father name
• Name of Requester
• Mailing address
• Phone number
• Copy of current government photo ID

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Ohio

$21.50; Additional copies $21.50 even if ordered at the same time.

Check or money order payable to: Treasury, State of Ohio. No cash unless ordering in person. No refunds of fees.

Application Address

Vital Statistics
Ohio Department of Health
P.O. Box 15098
Columbus, OH 43215-0098

Physical Address

Ohio Department of Health, 246 N. High St., Columbus, Ohio 43215

Phone/Fax

(614) 466-2531

Online Applications Information

http://www.odh.ohio.gov/vs

State Specific Info

The state of Ohio death records date to January 1, 1964. To obtain earlier records contact the probate Court in the county of death.

Other Information

Records from December 20, 1908 – December 31, 1963 can be obtained by writing:

Ohio Historical Society, Archives Library Division
1982 Velma Avenue
Columbus, OH 43211-2497

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Oklahoma

In the state of Oklahoma, anyone may obtain a certified copy of the death certificate.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Oklahoma

• Name of deceased
• Date of death
• Place of death
• Name of Requester
• Mailing Address
• Phone number
• Copy of current government photo ID
• Reason for request

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Oklahoma

$15.00; additional copies $15.00.

Check or money order payable to: OSDH. No cash. No refunds.

Application Address

Vital Records Service
State Department of Health
PO Box 53551
Oklahoma City, OK 73152

Physical Addresses

Vital Records Service, Room 117
Oklahoma State Department of Health
1000 Northeast 10th
Oklahoma City, OK 73104

James O. Goodwin Health Center
5051 S. 129th East Avenue
Tulsa, OK 74143-7004

Pittsburg County Health Department
1400 East College Avenue
McAlester, OK 74501

Phone/Fax

(405) 271-4040

Online Applications Information

https://www.ok.gov/health/Birth_and_Death_Certificates/

State Specific Info

Oklahoma has records dating to October 1908.

Other Information

All physical locations hours: 8:30AM to 4:00PM, Monday through Friday.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Oregon

Those who obtain a death certificate in the state of Oregon are family members or their legal representatives, persons or groups with rights to property, and government agencies. Anyone seeking a certificate without legal authority can provide a note from an eligible person (with signature notarized).

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Oregon

• Name of deceased
• Date of death
• Place of death
• Spouse name
• Name of Requester
• Relationship to deceased
• Address
• Phone number
• Email
• Copy of current government photo ID
• Reason for request

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Oregon

$25.00 to search, includes one (1) copy; $15.00 for additional copies when ordered at same time.

Short form death certificates without cause of death available for the same fee.

Check or money order payable to: OHA/Vital Records. No cash. Fees non-refundable except when no record is found, but only fees paid over the initial $25.00 search fee.

Application Address

Oregon Vital Records
P.O. Box 14050
Portland, OR 97293-0050

Physical Address

500 Summer Street, NE, E-20
Salem, OR 97301-1097

Phone/Fax

(971) 673-1190

Online Applications Information

http://www.oregon.gov/oha/ph/BirthDeathCertificates/GetVitalRecords/Pages/index.aspx

State Specific Info

Records of deaths in Oregon date to 1903. The City of Portland has records from 1862 to 1902 and statewide records from 1903 to 1955.

Other Information

The Oregon State Archives can provide non-certified copies of Death records that are more than 50 years old.

The telephone number for the Oregon State Archives is (503) 373-0701 and the fax number is (503) 373-0953. Information on how to obtain copies is also available via the internet at the Oregon State Archives website. The address for the state archives is:

Oregon State Archives
800 Summer Street, NE
Salem, OR 97310

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Pennsylvania

Those who may obtain a death certificate from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania must be an immediate family member or extended member with a direct relationship to decedent. Legal representatives of the estate may also obtain the record.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Pennsylvania

• Name of deceased
• Date of death
• Age at death
• Place of death
• Sex
• Social security number
• Date of birth
• Mother’s maiden name
• Father’s name
• Name of Funeral Director
• Name of Requester
• Relationship to deceased
• Address
• Phone number
• Email
• Copy of current government photo ID
• Reason for request/Intended use

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Pennsylvania

$20.00 to search (includes one copy). Additional copies ordered at same time are $9.00. Fee waived for active duty members of the military, their spouses, or dependent children.

Check or money order payable to: Vital Records. No cash. No refunds of fees.

Application Address

Division of Vital Records
P.O. Box 1528
New Castle, PA. 16103-1528

Physical Addresses

Erie Public Office
Division of Vital Records
1910 West 26th Street
Erie, PA 16508-1148

Harrisburg Public Office
Forum Place
555 Walnut Street, 1st Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17101-1914

New Castle Public Office
Division of Vital Records
Central Building Room 401
101 South Mercer Street
New Castle, PA 16101

Philadelphia Public Office
Division of Vital Records
110 North 8th Street, Suite 108
Philadelphia, PA 19107-2412

Pittsburgh Public Office
Division of Vital Records
411 7th Avenue, Suite 360
Pittsburgh, PA 15219-1973

Scranton Public Office
Division of Vital Records
Scranton State Office Building, Room 112
100 Lackawanna Avenue
Scranton, PA 18503-1928

Phone/Fax

(724) 656-3100

Online Applications Information

http://www.health.pa.gov/MyRecords/Certificates/Pages/11596.aspx#.WvSbOIgvyUm

State Specific Info

The state of Pennsylvania has records dating to January 1906. Death certificates prior to 1906 can be accessed through the county courthouse where the person deceased.

Other Information

All requests must be submitted on an application form, which requires the signature of individual requesting the certificate and a legible copy of his/her valid government issued photo ID that verifies name and mailing address of the individual requesting the certificate.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Rhode Island

Those who may obtain a death certificate from the state of Rhode Island include immediate family members or their authorized agent, legal guardian of the deceased, attorney’s, title examiners, legally incorporated genealogical society members conducting official duties, anyone granted a court order for the record, and those seeking information related to personal or property rights.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Rhode Island

• Name of deceased
• Date of death
• Place of death
• Spouse, registered domestic partner, or civil union partner
• Name of mother
• Name of father
• Name of Requester
• Relationship to deceased
• Address
• Phone number
• Copy of current government photo ID
• Reason for request

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Rhode Island

$20.00 for search and one (1) copy; $15.00 for each additional copy ordered with the first. Expedited service is available for an additional $7.00. If mailing, print “RUSH” on the envelope exterior.

Check or money order payable to: General Treasurer, State of Rhode Island. No cash. No refunds.

Application Address

RI Department of Health
Office of Vital Records, Room 101
3 Capitol Hill
Providence, RI 02908-5097

Physical Address

RI Department of Health
Office of Vital Records, Room 101
3 Capitol Hill
Providence, RI 02908-5097

Phone/Fax

(401) 222-2811 or (401) 222-5960

Online Applications Information

http://www.health.ri.gov/records/

State Specific Info

The state of Rhode Island keeps death records for 50 years general access.

For earlier records, write to the city or town clerk where the death occurred or the Rhode Island State Archives at 337 Westminster Street, Providence RI 02903

Other Information

In lieu of a government-issued picture ID, two pieces of mail showing the correct name and address of the individual requesting the death record are acceptable.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in South Carolina

The state of South Carolina permits immediate family member’s, their legal representative, and anyone with a tangible and direct interest for property and personal rights to obtain a death certificate. Those without these qualifications can receive a statement showing the date and county of the death.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in South Carolina

• Name of deceased
• Date of death
• Age at death
• Place of death
• Sex
• Social security number
• Name of Requester
• Relationship to deceased
• Address
• Phone number
• Email
• Copy of current government photo ID
• Reason for request

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in South Carolina

$12.00 non-refundable search fee, which includes one (1) certified copy. Additional copies ordered at the same time are $3.00.

Money order or a cashier’s check payable to: SCDHEC – Vital Records. No cash unless ordered in person. Credit and debit cards accepted.

Application Address

Office of Vital Records
SC DHEC
2600 Bull Street
Columbia, SC 29201

Physical Address

Office of Vital Records
SC DHEC
2600 Bull Street
Columbia, SC 29201

Phone/Fax

(803) 898-3630

Online Applications Information

http://www.scdhec.gov/VitalRecords/

State Specific Info

State death records date to January 1915.

Other Information

If death occurred within the last five (5) years, a certified copy may be obtained from the county where the event happened.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in South Dakota

To obtain a death certificate from the state of South Dakota, the requester must be a spouse, parent, child, guardian, grandparent/child, designated agent, attorney, physician, funeral director, or someone with property or personal rights.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in South Dakota

• Name of deceased
• Date of death
• Place of death
• Sex
• State file number
• Name of Requester
• Relationship to deceased
• Address
• Phone number
• Copy of current government photo ID
• Notarized signature

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in South Dakota

$15.00 non-refundable search fee, which includes one (1) certified copy. Additional copies ordered at the same time are $15.00.

Money order or check payable to: South Dakota Department of Health. No cash.

Application Address

Vital Records
State Department of Health
207 East Missouri Avenue, Suite 1-A
Pierre, SD 57501

Physical Address

Vital Records
State Department of Health
207 East Missouri Avenue, Suite 1-A
Pierre, SD 57501

Phone/Fax

(605) 773-4961

Online Applications Information

http://doh.sd.gov/Records/

State Specific Info

Mail-in applicants must send in a clear copy of a government-issued photo ID OR have their signature notarized.

Other Information

South Dakota has death records dating to July 1905.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Tennessee

The qualifications to obtain a death certificate in the state of Tennessee are tight. Only a parent, legal guardian, child, spouse, or legal representative to the deceased may do so.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Tennessee

• Name of deceased
• Date of death
• Age at death
• Place of death
• Sex
• Name of Funeral Service
• Location of Funeral Home
• Name of Requester
• Relationship to deceased
• Phone number
• Copy of current government photo ID
• Reason for request
• Whether cause of death is to be listed or not

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Tennessee

$15.00 non-refundable search fee, which includes one (1) certified copy. Additional copies ordered at the same time are $7.00. Expedited orders add $5.00.

Money order or check payable to: Tennessee Vital Records. No cash accepted.

Application Address

Tennessee Vital Records
1st Floor, Andrew Johnson Tower
710 James Robertson Parkway
Nashville, TN 37243

Physical Address

Tennessee Vital Records
1st Floor, Andrew Johnson Tower
710 James Robertson Parkway
Nashville, TN 37243

Phone/Fax

(615) 741-1763

Online Applications Information

https://www.tn.gov/health/health-program-areas/vital-records.html

State Specific Info

A photocopy of a valid government issued form of identification which includes the requestor’s signature, usually a driver’s license, must accompany the request.

Other Information

Death records are kept in Vital Records for 50 years. Older records are maintained by Tennessee Library and Archives, Archives Division, Nashville, TN 37243-0312.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Texas

To obtain a death certificate in the state of Texas, the requester must be a child, sibling, parent, grandparent, or spouse.

Any others seeking copies must have court orders, a formal release to obtain (which could simply be a notarized, written statement signed by any member of the immediate family). The statement must include requester’s full name and photocopy of a valid picture ID.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Texas

• Name of deceased
• Date of death
• Place of death
• Sex
• Name of father and mother (maiden)
• Name of Requester
• Relationship to deceased
• Address
• Phone number
• Copy of current government photo ID
• Reason for request

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Texas

$20.00 (non-refundable) for the search and 1^st copy. $3.00 for each additional copy of the death record.

Personal check or money order payable to: the DSHS. Express service is an additional $5.00; if mail service is requested, add $8.00; $17.50 if express mail is to be used. No cash. Credit cards may be used for online orders.

Application Address

Texas Vital Records
Department of State Health Services
P.O. Box 12040
Austin, TX 78711-2040

Physical Address

Texas Department of State Health Services
1100 West 49th Street
Austin, Texas 78756-3199

Phone/Fax

(512) 776-5625

Online Applications Information

http://www.dshs.texas.gov/vs/default.shtm

State Specific Info

Texas death records date to 1903.

Other Information

Request for certified copies of death certificates can be made via the internet, with a credit card, through Texas.gov. The application can be completed and sent by overnight service or by USPS Express Mail, with a check or money order, to the address on the application. Expedited requests require 10 – 15 business days to complete.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Utah

The only persons permitted to obtain a death certificate in Utah are parents, siblings, spouse, children, grandparents/children, or anyone with written permission by an immediate family member.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Utah

• Name of deceased
• Date of death
• Place of death
• Place of birth
• Date of Birth
• Decedent’s former address
• Father name
• Mother maiden name
• Name of spouse
• Name of Requester
• Relationship to deceased
• Address
• Phone number
• Copy of current government photo ID
• Reason for request

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Utah

$18.00 non-refundable to search; one certified copy provided. Additional copies ordered at same time $10.00 each.

Check or money order payable to: Vital Records. No cash accepted.

Application Address

Office of Vital Records and Statistics
Utah Department of Health
P.O. Box 141012
Salt Lake City, UT 84114-1012

Physical Address

Office of Vital Records and Statistics
Utah Department of Health
288 North 1460 West
Salt Lake City, UT 84114-1012

Phone/Fax

(801) 538-6105

Online Applications Information

https://vitalrecords.utah.gov/

State Specific Info

Death records in Utah date to 1905. Records become public after 50 years.

Other Information

Mailed requests must include an enlarged and easily identifiable photocopy of the back and front of your ID. If not enclosed, the application will be returned.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Vermont

No one is restricted from obtaining a death certificate in the state of Vermont.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Vermont

• Name of deceased
• Date of death
• Age at death
• Place of death
• Sex
• Name of Funeral Service
• Name of Requester
• Relationship to deceased
• Address
• Phone number
• Email
• Copy of current government photo ID
• Reason for request
• Self-addressed stamped envelop

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Vermont

$10.00 non-refundable to search; one certified copy provided. Additional copies ordered at same time $10.00 each.

Check or money order payable to: Vermont Department of Health. No cash accepted.

Application Address

Vermont Department of Health
Vital Records Section
P.O. Box 70
Burlington, VT 05402-0070

Physical Address

Vermont Department of Health
Vital Records Section
108 Cherry Street
Burlington, VT 05402-0070

Phone/Fax

(802) 863-7275

Online Applications Information

http://www.healthvermont.gov/stats/vital-records

State Specific Info

Death records are archived in Vermont dating to 1857.

Other Information

Because the Vermont Department of Health only keeps death records dating five (5) years back, all others are kept by the Vermont State Archives and Records Administration.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Virginia

To obtain a death certificate in the state of Virginia, the requester must be the spouse, a parent, legal guardian, child, sibling, or grandparent. The legal guardian must provide proof via custody order. The executor of the estate and someone with power of attorney may also obtain a copy.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Virginia

• Name of deceased
• Date of death
• Age at death
• Place of death
• Sex
• Race
• Name of Hospital
• Mother’s maiden name
• Father’s name
• Name of Requester
• Relationship to deceased
• Address
• Phone number
• Copy of current government photo ID
• Reason for request

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Virginia

$12.00 non-refundable to search; one certified copy provided. Additional copies ordered at same time $12.00 each.

Check or money order payable to: State Health Department. No cash accepted unless request made in-person.

Application Address

Division of Vital Records
P.O. Box 1000
Richmond, VA 23218-1000

757-787-5880 or 757-824-5616; Fax: 757-787-5841

Physical Address

2001 Maywill Street
Richmond, VA 23230

Phone/Fax

(804) 662-6200

Online Applications Information

http://www.vdh.virginia.gov/eastern-shore/vital-records/

State Specific Info

State office has records from January 1853 to December 1896 and since June 14, 1912.

Other Information

Valid government-issued photo ID is required for all requests.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Washington

Anyone is able to obtain a death certificate in the state of Washington.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Washington

• Name of deceased
• Date of death
• Place of death
• Date of birth
• Name of spouse
• Name of Requester
• Address
• Phone number
• Email

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Washington

$20.00 non-refundable to search; one certified copy provided. Additional copies ordered at same time $20.00 each. $31.50 by phone, sent regular mail. $31.50 online, sent regular mail. Additional fees apply for expedited service dependent on where and how delivery is to be made. Express mail add $18.30. FedEx add $15.00. Delivery via FedEx to Hawaii, Alaska, Canada, or Mexico add $25.00.

Check or money order payable to: Department of Health. No cash accepted. Visa and Mastercard are accepted for in-person requests.

Application Address

Department of Health
Center for Health Statistics
P.O. Box 47814
Olympia, WA 98504-7814

Physical Address

Town Center 2
111 Israel Rd S.E.
Tumwater, WA 98501

Phone/Fax

360-236-4313 or 800-525-0127

Online Applications Information

https://www.doh.wa.gov/LicensesPermitsandCertificates/BirthDeathMarriageandDivorce/OrderCertificates

State Specific Info

State office has records from July 1, 1907 to 2 months before present date.

Other Information

If a record is not located, $12 of the $20 certificate fee will be refunded. There is an $8 charge for the record search. Certificates ordered online and by phone include $5 agency expedite charge and $6.50 processing charge. These charges are nonrefundable.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in West Virginia

Those who may obtain a death certificate in the state of West Virginia include parents, grandparents, children, spouse, grandchildren, siblings, funeral director, and any person with a valid legal interest.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in West Virginia

• Name of deceased
• Date of death
• Place of death
• Sex
• Name of Requester
• Relationship to deceased
• Address
• Phone number
• Email
• Copy of current government photo ID
• Reason for request

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in West Virginia

$12.00 non-refundable to search; one certified copy provided. Additional copies ordered at same time $12.00 each.

Check or money order payable to: Vital Registration. No cash accepted.

Application Address

Vital Registration Office
Room 165
350 Capitol Street
Charleston, WV 25301-3701

Physical Address

Vital Registration Office
Room 165
350 Capitol Street
Charleston, WV 25301-3701

Phone/Fax

(304) 558-2931

Online Applications Information

http://www.wvdhhr.org/bph/hsc/vital/birthcert.asp

State Specific Info

State records for West Virginia date to January 1917. Records prior to this date may be available by writing to the appropriate Clerk of County Court (location of death).

Other Information

VitalChek provides expedited orders online for West Virginia. Non-rush costs $30.50 + shipping; Rush orders cost $35.50 + shipping. Orders by mail require between five and 19 business days.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Wisconsin

Those seeking to obtain a death certificate in the state of Wisconsin must be of direct descent or provide proof of lawful claim of need. Parents, children, domestic partner or spouse, sibling, grandparent may obtain easily. Legal guardians, representatives of any family member, or anyone who believes the record is necessary to protect property or personal rights must furnish proof including notarized authorization from a family member (for representative).

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Wisconsin

• Name of deceased
• Date of death
• Social security number
• Place of death
• Date of birth
• Occupation
• Name of spouse
• Mother’s maiden name
• Father’s name
• Name of Requester
• Relationship to deceased
• Address
• Phone number
• Copy of current government photo ID
• Photo ID number
• Reason for/purpose of request

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Wisconsin

$20.00 non-refundable to search; one certified copy provided. Additional copies ordered at same time $3.00 each.

Check or money order payable to: State of Wisconsin Vital Records. No cash accepted.

Application Address

WI Vital Records Office
P.O. Box 309
Madison, WI 53701-0309

Physical Address

WI Vital Records Office
1 West Wilson Street
Madison, WI 53701-0309

Phone/Fax

608-266-1373

Online Applications Information

https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/vitalrecords/index.htm

State Specific Info

Wisconsin has death records dating to October 1907.

Other Information

For records older than 1907, the requester may find records, but they will be incomplete.

Qualifications to Obtain a Death Certificate in Wyoming

Those permitted to obtain a death certificate in the state of Wyoming are immediate family members, their legal representatives, executor of the estate, insurance companies, banks, or any others needed the record to pay a death benefit or policy.

Information Needed to Obtain a Death Certificate in Wyoming

• Name of deceased
• Date of death
• Place of death
• Surviving spouse
• Name of Requester
• Relationship to deceased
• Address
• Copy of current government photo ID
• Reason for request

Cost to Obtain a Death Certificate in Wyoming

$10.00 non-refundable to search; one certified copy provided. Additional copies ordered at same time $10.00 each.

Check or money order payable to: Vital Statistics Services. No cash accepted.

NOTE: A personal check is accepted only if personalized with the name and current address of individual signing the request.

If the date of death is not known, a $13.00 search fee applies to each 5-year period searched. The fee includes either verification of no record or a certified copy of the death record.

Application Address

Vital Statistics Services
Hathaway Building
Cheyenne, WY 82002

Physical Address

Vital Statistics Services
2300 Capitol Avenue
Cheyenne, WY 82002

Phone/Fax

(307) 777-7591

Online Applications Information

https://health.wyo.gov/admin/vitalstatistics/

State Specific Info

A legible photocopy of a current state issued ID or passport which bears the signature of the applicant is required. ID with no expiration date is not accepted unless recently issued and additional proof of identification may be requested.

Other Information

Death records more than 50 years old should be obtained from the Wyoming State Archives at (307) 777-7826 or [email protected]

Death records are used for many reasons. One of the most common is genealogical research. Another is for financial matters related to a recent loss in the family. In fact, this is often the most pressing reason. Why? When someone passes, families are often unprepared. At times, money is an issue. When this is the case, they may be expecting to have a life insurance settlement which will take care of the costs. However, it can take days, even weeks to obtain a death certificate and insurance companies will generally not release the funds without one. Even when there is a clear beneficiary, the policy of insurance carriers is to have proof of the loss. This proof is provided via the death certificate. Also, whether the estate enters probate or not, at some point someone will have to begin settling debts and reassigning assets. Banks will need proof of your loss; employers will need proof to release certain benefits; even some social media sites will require proof of loss before shutting down the account of a deceased loved one. Finally, just as some like to keep the obituary as a memento of their loss, others like to have a copy of the death certificate. It can help with closure…with grieving. The Neptune Society is dedicated to helping families avoid the sudden shock and lack of preparation that often accompanies loss. We hope the information provided on these pages is useful to you and yours when needed. If you are facing such a time and need our assistance, click here for additional important information related to the next steps.

Death certificates are completed by a joint effort between a medical examiner (or coroner or attending physician) and a licensed funeral director.

In all 50 states, immediate family members or their legal representatives have access to death certificates. Some states permit anyone to obtain the record. In most states, however, a requester must hold a valid and legal purpose for obtaining the record. Still other states offer privacy copies which do not include the cause of death so that members of genealogical and other research organizations may obtain, though outside the realm of normal need.

Death certificates can be obtained online. If death records are older than 50 years, they become public record and may be obtained free of charge through various websites dedicated to genealogical research. However, if a requester is seeking a certificate for a recent death (less than 50 years ago), there will be fees involved. If a website promises to provide a recent, certified copy of a death certificate for free, be very wary. Each state charges a fee for death certificates and to be of practical use to survivors, the document must be a properly certified copy from the state in which the death occurred. Every state charges even for a non-certified copy.

The length of time to obtain a death certificate depends on several factors. Generally, the reporting of a death occurs no more than five days following. However, the Public Health Department may not issue the death certificate until receipt from the medical examiner. If the Coroner is involved, it may not be issued until an investigation has concluded. When death is by natural causes including disease, a death certificate is issued quickly. If there were any questions to be answered related to the death, it will take longer, perhaps much longer.

Although some death records make the statement upon the certified copy that it is illegal to make copies, this is not exactly correct. In the few locations where this still occurs, the statement generally fails to convey the proper intent: Most businesses and government entities needing a death certificate do need a certified copy. A photocopy will not suffice. For general purposes, it is fine to make copies of a death certificate, especially when family members may want a copy for their own purposes, often sentimental.

In some states, the death certificate is a public record easily obtained by anyone making request. Others have strict requirements in place to restrict public access. In all cases wherein the public can gain access, the document does not contain certain personally identifying information (PII) such as the social security number (though this is often needed to obtain the record). The only exceptions exist when someone goes through the courts and demonstrates a valid, legal purpose for making the request.

Starting in 1967, many U.S. states began using the social security number as a simplified way to index and look up the records. Because of concerns over identity theft, many of those same states later implemented tighter restrictions on who may access these records; others offer the detailed versions only to family members and authorized legal entities while providing edited versions for research purposes, such as genealogy.

Some states show the cause of death on the death certificate, but most have eliminated it for privacy reasons. In some states, such as Florida, two versions may be obtained; one showing the cause of death and the other without. Furthermore, most states do not restrict this information when the records are greater than 50 years old.