Order official South Dakota Death Records and Vital Records online

Death records are essential documents that provide proof of an individual's death and are critical for various legal, genealogical, and personal purposes. These records may be required for things such as settling estates, applying for family pensions, and conducting family history research. In South Dakota, death certificates are maintained by the Department of Health, and understanding the application process is important to ensure timely and accurate access to these records.

Who Can Request Death Records?

In South Dakota, death records are generally available to immediate family members, legal representatives, and those who can demonstrate a tangible interest. Immediate family members include spouses, parents, siblings, and children of the deceased. Legal representatives must provide documentation verifying their authority. Other requestors may need to provide specific reasons for their request and relationship to the deceased.

What Documents Are Required?

When requesting a South Dakota death certificate, it is necessary to provide specific documents to verify your identity and relationship to the deceased. Typically, you will require:

• • A completed application form for a Vital Record;
• • A photocopy of a valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, state ID card, or passport);
• • Documentation proving your relationship to the deceased (e.g., birth certificate, marriage certificate).

The application form can be downloaded from the South Dakota Department of Health's website here.

How to Obtain South Dakota Death Records

By Mail

To get a South Dakota death certificate by mail, follow these steps:

1. • Download and complete the application form from the South Dakota Department of Health's website;
2. • Enclose a photocopy of your valid ID and any other required documents;
3. • Include the required fee in the form of a check or money order payable to "South Dakota Department of Health";
4. • Mail the application to the address provided on the form.

In Person

You can also request death records in person at the South Dakota Department of Health's office:

1. • Bring the completed application form and your valid ID;
2. • Provide any required proof of relationship;
3. • Pay the associated fees directly at the office.

Online

For online applications, you can utilize the service offered by VitalChek:

• • Visit VitalChek to apply for a death certificate online;
• • Complete the online form and submit digital copies of the required documents;
• • Pay the fee using a credit or debit card.

Ensure that all information provided is accurate to avoid delays in processing.

How Much Do Death Records Cost?

The cost for obtaining a South Dakota death certificate is currently $15 per copy. Additional copies requested at the same time are also charged at $15 each.

Expedited service options may be available for an additional fee when ordering online through VitalChek.

Processing Time

The processing time for death record requests varies depending on the method used:

• • In-Person: Typically processed immediately while you wait;
• • By Mail: Generally takes 1-2 weeks from the date of receipt;
• • Online: Processing and delivery times depend on service options, with expedited options available.

In conclusion, obtaining a South Dakota death certificate involves following a series of well-defined steps to ensure proper verification and processing. By adhering to the outlined guidelines and providing all necessary documentation, you can expect a smooth and efficient application process. If you have specific questions or require further assistance, do not hesitate to contact the South Dakota Department of Health directly for support.

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.