How Many Death Certificates Do I Need? (And Who Requires One)
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Who Needs a Certified Copy
Each bank or financial institution
Each life insurance company
Social Security Administration
DMV (to cancel license)
The court (for probate filing)
+4 more
How to Order Them
Ask the funeral home to order 15 copies ...
Additional copies can be ordered later f...
Some states allow online ordering
Processing time varies from days to week...
Certified vs Regular Copies
Certified copies have a raised seal or s...
Regular photocopies are NOT accepted by ...
Always order certified copies — they are...
Track your progress — assign tasks, check things off, share with family
Get my planWho Needs a Certified Copy
Each of these institutions typically requires its own original certified death certificate:
Each bank or financial institution
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Each life insurance company
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Social Security Administration
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DMV (to cancel license)
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The court (for probate filing)
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The IRS (for final tax return)
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Each retirement account provider (401k, IRA)
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The mortgage company
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Each vehicle title transfer
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How to Order Them
The funeral home files the initial paperwork. Certified copies come from your county vital records office.
Ask the funeral home to order 15 copies at the time of filing
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Additional copies can be ordered later from your county vital records office
Tap “Get my plan” above for detailed how-to instructions, questions to ask, and insider tips for this step.
Some states allow online ordering
Tap “Get my plan” above for detailed how-to instructions, questions to ask, and insider tips for this step.
Processing time varies from days to weeks depending on your state
Tap “Get my plan” above for detailed how-to instructions, questions to ask, and insider tips for this step.
Certified vs Regular Copies
There is an important difference.
Certified copies have a raised seal or stamp from the issuing authority
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Regular photocopies are NOT accepted by banks, insurance, or government agencies
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Always order certified copies — they are the only ones that work
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make photocopies of a death certificate?
You can make photocopies for your records, but most institutions require an original certified copy with a raised seal. Photocopies are generally not accepted for legal, financial, or government purposes.
How long does it take to get death certificates?
It varies by state. Some issue them within days, others take 2-4 weeks. The funeral home can usually provide a preliminary document for urgent needs while you wait for certified copies.
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