Proof of Relationship: Documents That Show Your Connection to a Record
Proof of relationship is documentation that shows you are connected to the person named on a vital record, such as a parent, child, spouse or legal representative. States ask for it before releasing certified copies to someone other than the person named.
What vital record do you need?
Choose your certificate to start your order.
What states ask for
Requirements differ by state. Some examples:
- New York asks for valid government ID plus documentation proving your qualifying relationship to the deceased for certified death records. Both have linked lists of acceptable documents.
- Texas says applicants outside the immediate family list must provide legal documentation of a direct, tangible interest, for example a guardianship court order or an insurance policy naming them as beneficiary.
- Minnesota requires a legal custodian, guardian or conservator to have a court order naming them, and a health care agent to hold a valid health care power of attorney.
Documents that often show a relationship
Documents can include a birth certificate that lists a parent, a marriage certificate for a spouse, or a court order for a guardian. Which ones your state accepts is set by the issuing office, so check its list.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need proof of relationship for my own record?
Usually you show ID instead. Proof of relationship applies when you are ordering for someone else.
Is proof of relationship the same as ID?
No. ID shows who you are. Proof of relationship shows how you are connected to the record.
What if I do not have the documents?
Contact the issuing vital records office. It can explain accepted alternatives, such as a court order.
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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