How Getting Death Certificates Works

From submitting your form to receiving certified copies - here's exactly what happens at every step.

Online ordering through this site is not available right now. You can order a certified death certificate directly from your state vital records office - this is usually the fastest and cheapest option. Find your state office.

Requests Filed in All 50 States
Timing Depends on the State Office
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How to get a certified death certificate

  1. Find the right office. Certificates are issued by the vital records office of the state (or county) where the death occurred.
  2. Check eligibility and documents. Most offices limit who can request a certified copy and ask for photo ID and proof of relationship.
  3. Submit the request to the office. Offices accept requests by mail, online, or in person; methods, fees and timing vary and change.
  4. Receive the certified copies. Many families need several copies for banks, insurers and agencies.

Online ordering through this site is not available right now. Order directly from your state vital records office: