Death Records: How To Get One, Costs and More

Published March 25, 2024

Many institutions demand a certified copy of the death certificate when someone dies. Thus, it’s only ideal that you know everything about it. It would help in life scenarios when it calls for one.

In this article, we’ll discuss death records: what they are, how to get them, how long they will take, and other related topics. We’ll leave no FAQs unanswered. Let’s get started.

What Is a Death Certificate?

A death certificate is an official government-issued account that declares everything about an individual’s passing. It declares the cause of death, location of death, time of death, and some other personal data.

It serves several purposes. It acts as legal proof of death. It aims to settle estates. It can resolve insurance claims. Further, it can also assist in public health research by rendering information on causes of death.

The information contained in a death record typically includes:

1. The full name of the deceased
2. The date and place of birth
3. The date and place of death
4. The cause of death is often differentiated between immediate and underlying causes
5. Occupation of the deceased
6. Marital status at the time of death
7. Residential address
8. The name of the informant
9. The signature of the medical professional who validated the death

The process for obtaining a death certificate varies by jurisdiction. However, in general, it involves a medical professional certifying the cause of death. Then, the medical professional submits the necessary paperwork to a local or state vital records office. Family members or legal representatives can then request copies of the death certificate.

Can Anyone Get a Copy of a Death Certificate?

Only defined family members may be able to acquire a death certificate following someone’s passing. This includes a spouse, siblings, and children. Yet death records can be requested by anyone when they become public records. In some states, they are released 25 or more years after death.

When To Use a Certified Copy of a Death Certificate?

You will need to buy a certified copy of the death record for tasks such as:

1. Notifying the Social Security Administration, Veterans Affairs, or other government bodies
2. Closing or transferring credit cards as well as bank accounts
3. Claiming a person’s life insurance or pension
4. Probate courts for settling estates and wills
5. Transferring titles or deeds

How Long Does It Take To Get a Death Certificate?

The time it takes to obtain a death certificate can differ. Many factors are involved, such as the jurisdiction, cause of death, and the efficiency of the local government agencies responsible for its issuance.

Still, it typically takes a few days to a few weeks in many states. In some cases, expedited services may be available for an additional fee.

How To Get a Death Certificate

1. Determine the appropriate vital records office.

The first step is to rule the local vital record office or health department to the city or county where the death occurred. It is where death certificates are filed and kept.

Suppose the death happened recently. This office would be your primary point of contact.

2. Understand eligibility requirements

Before requesting a death record, you must ensure you are eligible to receive it. Eligibility criteria can include being a spouse, parent, child, or a legal representative of the deceased.

Some jurisdictions may allow other relatives or individuals to obtain the record as long as they have a legal right.

3. Complete an application form.

You will need to complete an application form for a death certificate. These forms are usually accessible online at the vital records office or health department site. Be prepared to render critical information to the deceased. Also, what is the reason for requesting the certificate?

4. Provide valid identification

You will also likely render a copy of valid identification to prove your identity and relationship to the deceased. Accepted forms of ID typically include a driver’s license, passport, or state ID card.

5. Pay the required fee.

There is usually a payment for acquiring a death certificate. Fees can differ by jurisdiction. Also, the number of copies requested.

You can check the specific fee structure on the vital record office’s website or call their office directly.

6. Submit your application

You can submit your application for a death certificate in person, by mail, or online. Ensure that all demanded documents and their payment fees are included with your application.

7. Wait for processing

After you submit your application, the process will begin. It can take a few days to several weeks. Once processed, the death record will be mailed to you or made available for pick up.

How Much Is a Death Certificate?

The cost of a death certificate can vary depending on the county, state, or jurisdiction where it is issued. Still, a general guide to its cost ranges around $10 to $25 per copy.