What is a Death Certificate?
It is a legal document issued by the government which states when a person died. It declares, among other details, the date, location, and causes of death. This document is required to solve any administration of assets and financial processes the deceased person was involved in. It is possible to need several copies for each individual legal purpose.
Where do I get a Death Certificate?
To get this document, you need to address yourself to the Vital Records Office of the state in which the death happened. You can order directly at the office or do a request through online platforms that provide this service. Vital Records Gov simplifies this process to you so you can order this record wherever you are, whenever you want. You will only need to provide essential information for the request and pay the corresponding fees. Then, wait for your document to arrive home.
How to get a Death Certificate?
It is the mortuary’s job to report and complete the Death Certificate form and get it signed off. Once it is finished, it has to be approved by the county. When you get the approval, you can proceed with the cremation or burial. On the other hand, if you want to ask for this document after a while has passed, it might be a little different. First, you will need to contact the Vital Records Office in the state in which the event occurred. Every state has its own forms you have to complete. Second, you will need to pay the corresponding fees and additional documentation (if required). Do not forget to show an ID with a picture to prove your identity. Finally, you will need to wait until your record is ready.
What is listed on a Death Certificate?
All death certificates contain important information relevant to the person concerned and all details surrounding their death. The list of details listed in this document varies geographically, since each state has the power to issue and regulate this document. However, these certificates generally include: - Full name - Address - Sex - Education and profession - Date and place birth - Date, place, and time of death - Conditions and causes of death - Progenitor's full name - Social Security number - Marital status
Are Death Certificates public records?
In fact, it is the state of interest that regulates access to this record. Generally speaking, this certificate is not a public record. So, in most of the cases, requesters have to prove the relationship with the deceased person. However, there are cases in which other people could have access, such as those needed for legal or medical proceedings. Also, after a certain amount of time prior to death, the access to the main information becomes more flexible.
How long does it take to get a Death Certificate?
On average, it takes from 5 days up to 2 weeks to receive the certificate. It all depends on the amount of work the funeral and the county office have at the time. However, if the descendant has been in hospes it can be faster.
How many Death Certificates do I need?
Certainly, the number of copies will depend on the number of financial assets the deceased has. Sometimes during procedures, when giving the original document, they take a copy and give you back the original. Yet, it is not always the case, so it is better to prepare several certificate copies. In general, family members will need between 6 and 10 copies. You can always get more from the county later.
How much does a Death Certificate cost?
As this record is issued by a state authority and not a national authority, its price varies among states. It could cost from $6 up to $25 for the first copy. However, adding other copies in the same request makes the other copies less expensive.