Order official Arkansas Death Records and Vital Records online

Death records are essential documents that provide critical information about an individual's death, including the date, location, and cause of death. They are often required for various legal purposes such as settling estates, claiming life insurance, and tracing genealogical history. Accessing these records correctly ensures their validity and legal acceptance.

Who Can Request Death Records?

In Arkansas, death records are considered confidential and are only accessible by certain individuals. Eligible requestors include:

• • Immediate family members (spouse, parent, child, sibling, grandparent);
• • Legal representatives with proper documentation;
• • Individuals with a tangible legal interest or a court order.

Before making a request, ensure that you fall within one of these categories to avoid delays in processing.

What Documents Are Required?

When applying for an Arkansas death certificate, you will need the following documents:

• • A completed and signed application form;
• • Valid photo identification (e.g., driver’s license, state ID, passport);
• • Proof of relationship or legal interest (e.g., birth certificate, court order).

You can download the application form and find detailed instructions on the Arkansas Department of Health’s official website here.

How to Obtain Arkansas Death Records

There are several methods to obtain Arkansas death records:

By Mail

To request by mail:

• • Complete the application form;
• • Include a copy of your valid photo ID;
• • Enclose the required fee (check or money order payable to the Arkansas Department of Health);
• • Mail the packet to the address specified on the form.

In Person

For in-person requests:

• • Visit the Arkansas Department of Health’s Vital Records office;
• • Submit your completed application along with valid ID and necessary fee.

Online

For online requests:

• • Use the authorized service provider VitalChek;  Click Here to Order Online from VitalChek;
• • Follow the website’s instructions to complete the process.

Always double-check your application for accuracy to ensure smooth processing.

How Much Do Death Records Cost?

The cost for obtaining an Arkansas death certificate is $10 for the first copy and $8 for each additional copy ordered at the same time. An expedited service is available for an additional fee, particularly for online orders through VitalChek, which may also include shipping costs. Ensure you understand the full cost before submitting your request.

Processing Time

Processing times vary based on the method of request:

• • Mail requests: Allow up to 10-14 business days for processing, plus mailing time;
• • In-person requests: Usually processed the same day or within 2-3 business days;
• • Online requests: Typically processed within 5-7 business days, with expedited options available through VitalChek.

Timely submission of all required documents helps expedite the process.

In conclusion, following the outlined steps and ensuring you meet all requirements will help you obtain your Arkansas death records efficiently. If you have specific questions or require further assistance, do not hesitate to contact the Arkansas Department of Health directly.

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.