Order official New Hampshire Death Records and Vital Records online

Death records play a crucial role in various legal and genealogical contexts. They provide necessary information for settling estates, verifying identity, conducting family history research, and more. This guide will walk you through the steps needed to obtain a New Hampshire death certificate, ensuring you understand the process, the costs involved, and the necessary documents required.

Who Can Request Death Records?

In New Hampshire, access to death records is limited to specific individuals to protect privacy. Authorized individuals include:

• • Immediate family members (spouse, parents, children, or siblings);
• • Legal representatives acting on behalf of the family;
• • Persons with a direct and tangible interest.

Documentation verifying your relationship or interest will be required.

What Documents Are Required?

To request a New Hampshire death certificate, you will need to provide various forms of identification and supporting documentation. Typically, you need:

• • A completed application form for a death certificate;
• • A government-issued photo ID (e.g., a driver’s license or passport);
• • Proof of relationship or legal interest;
• • A certified check or money order for the processing fee.

You can download the application form and find detailed instructions on how to complete it on the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services website.

How to Obtain New Hampshire Death Records

There are several ways to request a death certificate in New Hampshire:

In Person

You can visit the New Hampshire Division of Vital Records Administration Office or any town or city clerk's office in New Hampshire. Make sure to bring all required documents and payment.

By Mail

Mail your completed application, copies of identification, proof of relationship or legal interest, and payment to:

New Hampshire Department of State
Division of Vital Records Administration
71 South Fruit Street
Concord, NH 03301

Online

New Hampshire partners with VitalChek to offer an online ordering service for death certificates. Ensure all required documents are ready for upload during the application process to avoid delays.

How Much Do Death Records Cost?

The cost for a New Hampshire death certificate varies and typically includes:

• • A standard fee of $15 for the first certified copy; and
• • A fee of $10 for each additional copy ordered at the same time.

Expedited services may be available for an additional fee through VitalChek. Check their website for specific costs and service options.

Processing Time

Processing times can vary based on the method of application:

• • In Person: Generally processed the same day;
• • By Mail: Typically takes 7 to 10 business days;
• • Online: Processing times through VitalChek vary, but expedited processing options may reduce this time.

By following the guidelines outlined above and providing all necessary documents, you can ensure that your request for a New Hampshire death certificate is handled smoothly. For further assistance or specific questions, do not hesitate to contact the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services 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.