Order official Florida Death Records and Vital Records online

Death records, such as the Florida death certificate, are significant documents that serve numerous essential uses including legal proceedings, genealogical research, and personal record-keeping. Obtaining these records accurately and promptly is crucial for closing estates, claiming insurance, and understanding family history.

Who Can Request Death Records?

In Florida, access to death records is generally restricted to certain individuals. Immediate family members, legal representatives, and other individuals with a direct interest in the record may request them. The eligible requestors include:

• • Spouses;
• • Parents and legal guardians;
• • Children, grandchildren, and siblings (adult only);
• • Legal representatives of any of the above-described individuals;
• • Other individuals who can provide evidence of a direct and tangible interest, such as for property claims.

What Documents Are Required?

When applying for a Florida death certificate, certain documents are necessary to verify your identity and eligibility. These include:

• • A completed application form;
• • Proof of identity, such as a government-issued photo ID;
• • Documentation proving your relationship to the deceased, if required.

The application form can be downloaded from the Florida Department of Health's official website.

How to Obtain Florida Death Records

There are several methods to obtain a Florida death certificate:

By Mail:

Send a completed application form, proof of identity, and payment to the Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics. Ensure all documents are properly filled out to avoid delays.

In Person:

Visit the Bureau of Vital Statistics office to submit your application in person. Bring along all necessary documents and payment.

Online:

You can request Florida death records online through portals like VitalChek. Use this VitalChek link to start your online application.

For all methods, double-check your information to ensure accuracy and completeness.

How Much Do Death Records Cost?

The cost for obtaining death records in Florida varies depending on the method of application and the required number of copies. Typically:

• • The first certified copy costs around $5;
• • Additional copies ordered at the same time are approximately $4 each.

Expedited services may incur extra fees, so be sure to check with the application method you choose.

Processing Time

The processing time for death records in Florida varies:

• • By mail: Expect processing within 5-7 business days, plus mailing time;
• • In person: Often processed the same day;
• • Online: Processing typically takes around 3-5 business days, not including shipping time.

In conclusion, obtaining Florida death records is a crucial process that requires careful attention to details and the submission of the correct documents. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth and prompt application process. Should you have any further questions or need specific assistance, do not hesitate to contact the Florida 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.