Death Certificates

The Death Certificate is a legal document declaring the legal death of an individual. Death certificates are often requested by government agencies (ie IRS, SSA, State departments, etc), banks, insurance companies, employers, and bill collectors.  It is a good idea to obtain multiple copies of a death certificate as most agencies require a certified certificate and not a photocopy, however bill collectors will usually accept a photocopy.

How Soon Can I Get The Death Certificates?

There are 2 portions of a death certificate - personal (which the Funeral Home completes) and Medical (which the doctor providing care during death completes). Once both portions are completed and digitally signed, the death certificates can then be obtained from either the State or local township.  

What if I need more death certificates after the service?

A death certificate can be obtained through a funeral home, however they will still need to order through the township where the deceased passed or through the State Vital Statistics office. However, a funeral home does not need to request them, a spouse, parent, child, or sibling can request the death certificate from the same.

How Much Does a Death Certificate Cost?

The cost of death certificates varies by township / state.  As funeral directors, we are able to obtain the death certificates initially from Lower Township who charges $10 per certified death certificate.  After Lower Township files the death certificate with the state, then the only the State or the township where the deceased passed away can provide the death certificate.  The state charges $25 for the first copy, $2 for each additional, and a $5 shipping charge (only applies up to 7 copies, does not apply after 8th copy).