Order official Maryland Death Records and Vital Records online

Obtaining death records is an essential task for various administrative, legal, and genealogical purposes. The information contained in a Maryland death certificate can provide critical details for settling estates, pursuing insurance claims, or tracing family history. Understanding the process, costs, and requirements will help ensure that you obtain the records you need efficiently.

Who Can Request Death Records?

In Maryland, only certain individuals are authorized to request death records. These include the immediate family members of the deceased, their legal representatives, and individuals who can provide a tangible legal interest. Proof of eligibility is typically required when making a request.

What Documents Are Required?

To request a Maryland death certificate, you will need to provide specific documents. These often include:

• • A completed application form for a death certificate (download the form here);
• • Valid government-issued photo identification;
• • Proof of your relationship to the deceased, such as a birth or marriage certificate, if applicable;
• • Proof of legal interest, if you are not an immediate family member.

How to Obtain Maryland Death Records

There are several ways to request death records in Maryland, including by mail, in person, and online.

By Mail

To request by mail, fill out the required application form and enclose copies of the necessary identification and proof documents. Mail these items along with the required fee to:

Division of Vital Records
6764B Reisterstown Road
Reisterstown Road Plaza
Baltimore, Maryland 21215

In Person

You can visit the Division of Vital Records office at the above address to make a request in person. Make sure to bring all the required documents for verification.

Online

For a more convenient option, you can order Maryland death certificates online through VitalChek, a trusted service provider.

How Much Do Death Records Cost?

The cost for obtaining a death certificate in Maryland is $10. Additional copies can also be requested at a fee of $10 each. For expedited service through VitalChek, additional processing fees may apply.

Processing Time

The processing time for death records can vary:

• • Mail requests: Typically processed within 4-6 weeks;
• • In-person requests: Usually processed the same day if all documents are in order;
• • Online requests: Generally processed within 2-3 weeks, potentially faster with expedited services.

In conclusion, following these guidelines carefully will help ensure that your application for Maryland death records is processed smoothly and efficiently. If you have any specific questions or require further assistance, do not hesitate to reach out directly to the Maryland Division of Vital Records.

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.