Certified Death Certificate: What Makes a Copy Certified
A certified death certificate is an official copy of the death record issued by the government office that holds it. Institutions treat it as proof of death, unlike a plain photocopy.
What vital record do you need?
Choose your certificate to start your order.
Where certified copies are required
Government and financial offices commonly ask for one. The Alameda County Superior Court (California) lists several examples: recording a joint tenancy affidavit for real property, changing ownership of a bank account, transferring a vehicle title or securities, and filing life insurance or retirement death benefit claims. The Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation asks for a "certified copy of the death certificate" when a death is reported. USAGov also notes that most agencies ask for certified copies.
Certified versus informational copies
Some states also issue non-certified copies. Washington's Department of Health, for example, says its informational copies cannot be used for legal purposes and carry a watermark saying so. Check the issuing state's rules before you order, since the names and content of each copy type vary.
Frequently asked questions
Is a photocopy of a death certificate enough?
Usually not. The offices named above ask for a certified copy, so confirm with each office before you rely on a photocopy.
Who can request a certified copy?
Rules vary by state. Many states limit certified copies to relatives, legal representatives or others with a documented interest.
Does every office keep the certified copy?
Some do. PBGC, for instance, asks you to send one. Ask each office whether it returns the copy, and consider keeping a count of how many you give out.
Sources
US Records is a private company and is not a government agency. Government agencies issue certified records; we help you order them.
Written By
US Records TeamThe US Records Team writes and reviews guides on birth, death, marriage and divorce certificates, using state statutes, agency instructions and court records as sources.
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