Genealogical Copy: An Uncertified Vital Record for Family Research
A genealogical copy is an uncertified copy of an older birth, marriage or death record that a state issues for family history research. It shows the record's information but, according to state health departments, is not valid for establishing identity or for legal purposes.
What vital record do you need?
Choose your certificate to start your order.
Two states as examples
New Jersey. The Department of Health covers birth, death and marriage records of deceased people for genealogical requests, in set time windows. Its page lists births more than 80 years ago, marriages more than 50 years ago and deaths more than 40 years ago. It provides an uncertified informational copy with no proof of relationship required, and states that this copy "is not valid for establishing identity or legal purposes." A certified copy requires proof of your relationship to the person on the record.
New York. The Department of Health provides uncertified copies "for genealogy research purposes." Births must generally be on file for at least 75 years and the person known to be deceased. Deaths must be on file for at least 50 years, and marriages at least 50 years with both spouses known to be deceased. The time periods are waived for direct-line descendants who provide proof of relationship and proof of death. New York City records are not filed by the state Department of Health.
When to use it
A genealogical copy suits research into ancestors. If you need a record to prove identity, apply for a benefit or file a legal matter, ask the issuing office about a certified copy and who may request it. The rules, years and fees vary by state.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a genealogical copy as ID?
No. New Jersey says the genealogical copy is not valid for establishing identity or legal purposes.
Do I have to prove I am related?
In New Jersey, not for the uncertified informational copy. In New York, proof of relationship can waive the time periods for direct-line descendants.
Are all genealogical records held by the state?
No. New York notes that New York City records, and some earlier city records, are held by local offices.
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.
Most popular definitions
- Birth Certificate Number: What It Is and What the Digits Mean
- Adoption Birth Certificate: The New Certificate Issued After Adoption
- Affidavit of Birth: A Sworn Statement Used to Establish a Birth
- Amended Birth Certificate: What It Is and How It Appears
- Apostille: What It Is and When You Need One
- Authentication Certificate: Preparing U.S. Documents for Non-Hague Countries
- Authorized Requester: Who Can Order a Certified Vital Record
- Beneficiary: Who Receives Insurance, Accounts or an Estate
Recent definitions
- Adoption Birth Certificate: The New Certificate Issued After Adoption
- Affidavit of Birth: A Sworn Statement Used to Establish a Birth
- Amended Birth Certificate: What It Is and How It Appears
- Apostille: What It Is and When You Need One
- Authentication Certificate: Preparing U.S. Documents for Non-Hague Countries