Divorce records are important legal documents that serve various essential purposes. They provide proof of marital status, are required for name changes, and are necessary when applying for certain benefits or legal proceedings. This guide aims to help you understand the process of obtaining a Pennsylvania divorce certificate.
In Pennsylvania, divorce records are considered private and are only accessible to specific individuals. These include the individuals named on the record, their immediate family members, and authorized legal representatives. Always verify your eligibility before submitting a request.
To request a Pennsylvania divorce certificate, you will need to provide some specific documents. These typically include:
Ensure you fill out the form completely and accurately to avoid any processing delays. You can find the application form and instructions here.
The Pennsylvania Department of Health provides several methods to obtain a divorce certificate:
To request by mail, send the completed application form along with the required identification and payment to:
Pennsylvania Department of Health
Division of Vital Records
P.O. Box 1528
New Castle, PA 16103
You can also request divorce records in person at any Pennsylvania Department of Health Vital Records office. Ensure you bring your completed application form, identification, and payment.
For convenience, you can order a Pennsylvania divorce certificate online through the VitalChek service. Visit the VitalChek website here to get started. Make sure to have your identification and payment method ready.
The cost for a Pennsylvania divorce certificate typically includes a basic fee, with additional charges for expedited services or extra copies. The basic fee is generally around $20 per copy. For expedited services, additional fees apply. Visit the Pennsylvania Department of Health website for detailed pricing.
The processing time for obtaining Pennsylvania divorce records varies depending on the method of application:
Following these guidelines carefully ensures a smooth application process for obtaining your Pennsylvania divorce certificate. If you have any specific questions or need further assistance, do not hesitate to reach out to the Pennsylvania Department of Health directly. Properly managing these details can significantly ease the process, ensuring you receive the records you need without unnecessary delays.
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.
Address | P.O. Box 1528, New Castle, PA. 16103-1528 |
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Phone number | (724) 656-3100 |
Website | https://www.health.pa.gov/Pages/default.aspx |