Order official Minnesota Death Records and Vital Records online

Death records are significant documents that provide essential information about an individual’s life and death. They are crucial for legal purposes such as settling estates, claiming benefits, genealogical research, and fulfilling certain legal procedures. Obtaining these records correctly and efficiently involves understanding the application process, required documents, and associated costs.

Who Can Request Death Records?

In Minnesota, death records are classified as either certified or non-certified. Certified death records are only available to individuals with a tangible interest in the deceased, such as immediate family members, legal representatives, or those with a court order. Non-certified copies can be requested by anyone but are typically marked as informational and not valid for legal purposes.

What Documents Are Required?

The documents required to obtain a Minnesota death certificate vary depending on whether a certified or non-certified copy is requested. Generally, you will need:

• • A completed death record application form (available here).
• • Proof of identity, such as a government-issued ID.
• • Legal documents proving your relationship to the deceased, if requesting a certified copy.

Ensure all forms are filled out completely and accurately to prevent delays in processing.

How to Obtain Minnesota Death Records

There are several ways to obtain death records in Minnesota:

By Mail

You can request death records by mailing the completed application form, along with the required documents and payment, to the Minnesota Department of Health. Ensure you use a traceable method of mailing to confirm delivery.

In Person

Death records can also be requested in person at the Minnesota Department of Health or any local county vital records office. Bringing the necessary documents and payment in person can sometimes expedite the process.

Online

For convenience, you can request death records online through VitalChek, an authorized service provider. This method often provides faster processing and mailing options.

How Much Do Death Records Cost?

The cost for obtaining death records in Minnesota varies:

• • Certified copies typically cost around $13 for the first copy, and $6 for each additional copy in the same order.
• • Non-certified copies may be priced differently.

Expedited services and additional copies often incur extra fees. Payment can generally be made by check, money order, or online using a credit card.

Processing Time

The processing time for death records depends on the method of application:

• • By Mail: Typically processed within several weeks.
• • In Person: May be processed the same day, depending on office workload and completeness of the application.
• • Online: Generally faster, with options for expedited shipping.

For any specific processing time queries, contacting the Minnesota Department of Health directly is recommended.

Obtaining Minnesota death records requires following certain guidelines and submitting the proper documentation. By understanding the requirements and costs, and choosing the most convenient application method, you can ensure a smoother process. Should you have any specific questions or need additional assistance, do not hesitate to reach out to the Minnesota Department of Health.

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.