Informant: Who Provides Details for a Death Certificate
An informant is the person who gives the personal information about the deceased that goes on the death certificate. The CDC's handbook for funeral directors says the preferred informants, in order, are a spouse, a parent, an adult child, another relative, or another person with knowledge of the facts.
What vital record do you need?
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What the informant provides
The informant supplies the decedent's personal information. The informant's name, relationship to the decedent and mailing address must appear on the certificate, since they are used for follow-up questions.
Why it matters when ordering copies
Some offices give weight to the informant when issuing copies. In Texas, an informant listed on the death certificate can be issued death certificates because the informant provided the information on the record. Applicants, including informants, must still present identification that meets the state's requirements.
Informant versus certifier
The informant gives personal details. The certifier completes the medical section, including cause of death.
Frequently asked questions
Does the informant sign the medical section?
No. The certifier completes and signs that section.
Can anyone be an informant?
The CDC lists a preferred order, starting with a spouse, but allows another person with knowledge of the facts.
Does being the informant guarantee I can order copies?
Not in every state. Rules vary by state, and identification is still required.
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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