Order official Delaware Death Records and Vital Records online

Death records are vital documents that serve various essential purposes, such as settling estates, claiming insurance benefits, and conducting genealogical research. Obtaining a Delaware death certificate involves specific steps that ensure the protection and accurate documentation of sensitive information. This guide provides a detailed overview of the application process, required documents, eligibility, costs, and processing times for obtaining death records in Delaware.

Who Can Request Death Records?

In Delaware, death records are considered confidential, and access is restricted to specific individuals. Generally, certified copies can be requested by:

• • Immediate family members (spouse, parent, child, or sibling);
• • Legal representatives of the deceased's estate;
• • Individuals with a court order;
• • Government agencies or entities requiring the information for legal purposes.

What Documents Are Required?

To apply for a Delaware death certificate, you will need to provide specific documents to verify your identity and eligibility. The required documents typically include:

• • A completed application form;
• • A valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, etc.);
• • Proof of relationship or legal interest in the death certificate.

How to Obtain Delaware Death Records

There are several ways to obtain death records in Delaware:

• • By mail: Fill out the Delaware state application form, include the required documents and payment, and mail them to the Division of Public Health Office of Vital Statistics.
• • In person: Visit any of the Office of Vital Statistics locations with your completed application and required documents.
• • Online: Use the VitalChek service to submit your application and payment electronically. Ensure all details are accurate to avoid delays.

To ensure a smooth application process, double-check that all forms are filled out correctly, all required documents are included, and payments follow the instructions provided.

How Much Do Death Records Cost?

The cost of obtaining a Delaware death certificate varies depending on the method of application and whether expedited service is requested:

• • Standard processing fee for one copy: $25.00;
• • Each additional copy: $25.00;
• • Expedited service (optional) may incur additional fees as provided by the respective service, such as VitalChek.

Processing Time

The processing time for death records in Delaware depends on the submission method:

• • By mail: Approximately 2-4 weeks;
• • In person: Usually processed while you wait;
• • Online: Processing times vary but generally take 1-2 weeks, with options for expedited service available.

Adhering to the outlined guidelines ensures a seamless and efficient acquisition of death records in Delaware. It's crucial to be thorough and precise with your application and support documents. For specific questions or further assistance, it's recommended to contact the Delaware Division of Public Health Office of Vital Statistics 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.