Death records are significant documents that serve various purposes, such as settling estates, genealogical research, and fulfilling legal requirements. In Massachusetts, obtaining a Massachusetts death certificate involves a straightforward but specific process. This guide will help you navigate the application process, understand the costs involved, and ensure you have the required documents to successfully obtain death records.
Who Can Request Death Records?
In Massachusetts, death records are considered public records, meaning that anyone can request a Massachusetts death certificate without demonstrating a direct relationship to the deceased. However, some sensitive information may be redacted for privacy reasons.
What Documents Are Required?
When applying for a Massachusetts death certificate, you will need to provide:
- • A completed application form. You can download the form from the Massachusetts Registry of Vital Records and Statistics website.
- • A valid government-issued photo ID (Driver’s License, Passport, etc.).
- • Payment for the applicable fees.
Ensure you fill out the application form accurately to avoid any delays in processing your request.
How to Obtain Massachusetts Death Records
The Massachusetts Registry of Vital Records and Statistics provides several methods to obtain death records:
By Mail
- • Download, print, and fill out the application form.
- • Include a copy of your government-issued photo ID.
- • Attach a check or money order for the applicable fee.
- • Mail the completed application to: Registry of Vital Records and Statistics 150 Mt. Vernon Street 1st Floor Dorchester, MA 02125-3105
In Person
- • Visit the Registry of Vital Records and Statistics at the address above.
- • Bring a completed application form and your photo ID.
- • Pay the fee using cash, check, or money order.
Online
- • Use the online service provided by VitalChek.
- • Complete the online application form and upload a copy of your photo ID.
- • Pay the fee using a credit or debit card.
- • Online requests often offer expedited processing for an additional fee.
How Much Do Death Records Cost?
- • In-person requests: $20 per copy.
- • Mail-in requests: $32 per copy.
- • Online requests through VitalChek: $32 per copy, plus expedited service fees if selected.
- • Additional copies of the same record ordered at the same time: $3 each.
Processing Time
- • In-person requests: Typically processed on the same day.
- • Mail-in requests: Usually processed within 2-4 weeks.
- • Online requests: Processing times vary based on the service level chosen but typically range from a few days to a couple of weeks.
By carefully following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth and efficient process for obtaining Massachusetts death records. Should you have any further questions or need specific assistance, do not hesitate to reach out to the Massachusetts Registry of Vital Records and Statistics directly. They can provide personalized help to address any of your concerns.
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.
Registry of Vital Records and Statistics
| Address | 150 Mount Vernon Street, 1st Floor, Dorchester, MA 02125-3105 |
|---|---|
| Phone number | (617) 740-2600 |
| Website | https://www.mass.gov/orgs/registry-of-vital-records-and-statistics |