Order official New Jersey Death Records and Vital Records online

Death records are crucial documents that serve various essential purposes, such as legal proof of an individual's death, processing inheritance claims, obtaining life insurance benefits, and performing genealogical research. Obtaining a New Jersey death certificate requires understanding the application process, the required documents, and the associated costs. This guide will provide detailed instructions on how to get New Jersey death records conveniently and efficiently.

Who Can Request Death Records?

In New Jersey, death records are not public records. Therefore, only certain individuals are eligible to request them. These include:

• • Immediate family members of the deceased (spouse, children, parents, siblings);
• • Legal representatives with authorization;
• • Persons with a court order;
• • Governmental agencies for official purposes.

What Documents Are Required?

When applying for a New Jersey death certificate, you must provide specific documents to verify your eligibility and identity. Required documents include:

• • A completed application form;
• • Valid government-issued photo identification (e.g., driver's license, passport);
• • Proof of relationship to the deceased or legal authorization, if applicable;
• • Payment of the required fee.

For detailed instructions on completing the application form, visit the New Jersey Department of Health website.

How to Obtain New Jersey Death Records

There are several ways to obtain New Jersey death records:

By Mail

To request a death certificate by mail, follow these steps:

• • Complete the application form;
• • Include a photocopy of your valid ID;
• • Provide proof of your relationship to the deceased or legal authorization;
• • Enclose payment (check or money order);
• • Mail the packet to the specified address on the application form.

In Person

You can visit the New Jersey Department of Health vital records office or a local registrar's office to request a death certificate in person. Bring the completed application form, necessary identification, proof of relationship or authority, and the required payment.

Online

For a convenient online service, you can request New Jersey death records through VitalChek. Complete the online application, upload required documents, and pay the fee using a credit or debit card.

How Much Do Death Records Cost?

The cost for obtaining a New Jersey death certificate varies:

• • Death certificate copy: $25 for the first copy, and $2 for each additional copy ordered at the same time;
• • Expedite service: Additional fees apply for express processing and shipping options available through VitalChek.

Processing Time

Processing times differ depending on the method of application:

• • By mail: Generally takes 4-6 weeks, potentially longer during peak periods;
• • In person: Same-day service if all documents are in order;
• • Online: 2-5 business days, plus shipping time for expedited options through VitalChek.

Following these guidelines will help ensure a smooth and efficient application process. Should you have any specific questions or require further assistance, do not hesitate to contact the New Jersey 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.