Order official New Mexico Death Records and Vital Records online

Death records are crucial documents serving various essential functions, such as settling estates, proving family relationships, conducting genealogical research, and fulfilling legal requirements. Obtaining a New Mexico death certificate is a straightforward process when you understand the necessary steps and required materials. This guide will walk you through the application process, from eligibility to costs and processing times.

Who Can Request Death Records?

In New Mexico, death records are confidential and can generally only be accessed by individuals who have a direct and tangible interest in the record. This includes:

• • Immediate family members such as parents, children, spouse, or siblings;
• • Legal representatives;
• • Individuals with a court order;
• • Genealogists representing immediate family members.

What Documents Are Required?

To request a New Mexico death certificate, you will need to provide certain documents to verify your identity and eligibility. These documents include:

• • A completed application form, which can be downloaded here;
• • A valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport;
• • Proof of relationship or direct and tangible interest, such as birth certificates, legal documents, or court orders.

How to Obtain New Mexico Death Records

There are several ways to obtain New Mexico death records:

By Mail

Mail the completed application form, copies of the required documents, and a check or money order for the applicable fee to:

New Mexico Department of Health, Bureau of Vital Records and Health Statistics
P.O. Box 25767
Albuquerque, NM 87125

In Person

You can visit the New Mexico Bureau of Vital Records and Health Statistics office located in Santa Fe or Albuquerque. It is recommended to call ahead and verify the office hours and any specific requirements.

Online

For the convenience of online applications, you can use VitalChek, an authorized service provider. Apply through VitalChek for a secure and expedited process.

To ensure your application is processed smoothly, double-check that all forms are completed accurately, and include the correct payment and ID copies.

How Much Do Death Records Cost?

The cost for obtaining a New Mexico death certificate is $15 per copy. If you need expedited service, additional fees will apply when using providers like VitalChek.

Processing Time

Processing times can vary based on the method of application:

• • By Mail: Typically takes 6-12 weeks;
• • In Person: Same-day service in most cases, if submitted during office hours;
• • Online: Generally processed within 3-5 business days, plus shipping time, for standard service.

Expedited services, if available, can significantly reduce these times at an extra cost.

Following these guidelines carefully ensures a smooth process in obtaining the death records you need. If you have any specific questions or require further assistance, do not hesitate to contact the New Mexico Department of Health directly or visit their official website.

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.