Death Certificates 101
The one paper everything else will ask for.
In short
The death certificate is the one document nearly every step ahead will ask for. Banks, insurers, Social Security, the court. You will need more certified copies than you expect. Most families use 5 to 10. The funeral home usually orders them; say yes, and order extras.
Who orders
usually the funeral home, or you through the county vital records office.
Cost
commonly 10 to 35 dollars per certified copy; each state sets its own fee.
Time
days to a few weeks.
How many
one per insurer, bank, and agency is the safe rule.
Certified or photocopy
A certified copy is the only version most institutions accept. Depending on the state it may carry a raised seal or be printed on security paper without one; both are valid. Some institutions return it, many do not.
Photocopies are for your own records.
Who can request one
Rules vary by state. Typically: spouse, parent, child, sibling, or the executor.
Bring ID, and sometimes proof of relationship.
If the cause is pending
You can usually get a certificate marked pending, which is enough to start most practical steps. An updated version follows.
Watch-outs
- Ask each institution first whether a photocopy will do; save the certified ones for those that insist.
- Mail them tracked, always.
- Reordering later works, but it is slower and pricier in small batches.
Words you will meet
- vital records office
- the government office that issues certificates.
- informant
- the person who provided the personal details, often you.
Sources
- State directory for ordering certified copies of death certificatesopens in a new tab
- Application guidelines for requesting vital records, including identity, relationship, and fee detailsopens in a new tab
- Who may obtain an authorized certified copy in California, an example of state eligibility rulesopens in a new tab
Related
- Survivor Benefits 101
- The notification letter
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