Order official Alaska Death Records and Vital Records online

Death records are essential documents that serve numerous legal, financial, and genealogical purposes. In Alaska, obtaining a death certificate can help settle estates, claim life insurance benefits, conduct family history research, and comply with legal requirements. The Alaska Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) handles these vital records and has specific procedures for requesting them.

Who Can Request Death Records?

In Alaska, death records are considered confidential and are restricted to certain individuals. The following persons are eligible to request an Alaska death certificate:

• • Immediate family members, such as parents, children, spouses, or siblings;
• • Legal representatives of the deceased or the deceased's estate;
• • Persons with a direct and tangible interest, such as those needing to determine property rights.

What Documents Are Required?

To apply for an Alaska death certificate, the following documents are typically required:

• • A completed Death Certificate Request Form;
• • A copy of a government-issued photo ID for the applicant;
• • Payment for the applicable fees (see below for cost details).

Ensure all sections of the application form are filled out accurately to prevent delays in processing.

How to Obtain Alaska Death Records

There are several ways to obtain Alaska death records:

By Mail

Send a completed request form, a copy of your ID, and payment to:

Alaska Vital Records
P.O. Box 110675
Juneau, AK 99811-0675

In Person

Visit the Alaska Vital Records office in Juneau, Anchorage, or Fairbanks. Bring your completed request form, a valid photo ID, and payment.

Online

You can order death certificates online through VitalChek, an authorized third-party service. Visit this VitalChek link for more details.

Tip: Make sure all information is correct and legible to avoid processing delays.

How Much Do Death Records Cost?

The cost for a certified Alaska death certificate is $30 for the first copy and $25 for each additional copy ordered at the same time. Expedited services may be available for an additional fee.

Processing Time

Processing times can vary depending on the method used:

• • By Mail: 2-4 weeks;
• • In Person: Same day service, but subject to office hours and availability;
• • Online via VitalChek: Processing times may vary, but expedited options are available.

Following these guidelines carefully can ensure a smooth process. Should you have any specific questions or require further assistance, do not hesitate to contact the Alaska DHSS Vital Records office directly. Obtaining an Alaska death certificate is a significant step in managing after-death duties and helps provide necessary closure for loved ones.

If the event was recorded locally or if you need immediate access to detailed records, it is preferable to contact your county vital records office directly. Find the contact details of your local county vital records office here.