Order official Washington Divorce Records and Vital Records online

Obtaining divorce records is essential for various legal, financial, and personal reasons. Having a Washington divorce certificate can be critical for matters such as name changes, remarriage, child custody, and property settlements. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to get divorce records in Washington, detailing the application process, costs, required documents, and differences in processing times.

Who Can Request Divorce Records?

In Washington, divorce records are available to the general public. However, only authorized individuals can request certified copies. These typically include the parties involved in the divorce, their immediate family members, and legal representatives. Having the correct information and permissions ensures compliance with state regulations and privacy standards.

What Documents Are Required?

To apply for a Washington divorce certificate, you will need to provide some essential documents and information:

• • A completed application form, which is available on the Washington State Department of Health website.
• • A valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license, passport).
• • Proof of relationship if you are not one of the parties involved in the divorce.
• • Payment for the applicable fees.

Ensure all forms are accurately filled out and signed to prevent delays in processing your request.

How to Obtain Washington Divorce Records

By Mail

To request divorce records by mail:

• • Complete the application form available on the Washington State Department of Health website.
• • Include a photocopy of your government-issued ID.
• • Enclose the required fee as a check or money order.
• • Mail to the appropriate address provided in the application instructions.

In Person

You can also obtain divorce records by visiting the Washington State Department of Health office:

• • Bring a completed application form and valid ID.
• • Pay the required fee using cash, check, or credit card.

Online

For convenience, you can order divorce records online through VitalChek:

• • Visit the VitalChek website.
• • Follow the online application process.
• • Provide all necessary information and payment.

Tip: Double-check all information for accuracy to avoid delays in processing your application.

How Much Do Divorce Records Cost?

The cost for obtaining a Washington divorce certificate varies:

• • Standard copy fee: $20 per certified copy.
• • Additional charges may apply for expedited service or extra copies.
• • Online services through VitalChek may include additional processing fees.

Processing Time

Processing times for divorce records can differ based on the application method:

• • Mail: Typically takes 2-4 weeks.
• • In-person: Same-day service if the document is available.
• • Online: Varies, but generally faster than mail.

Note: Mailing times may extend during peak periods or holidays. Online services usually offer expedited options for quicker processing.

By following these guidelines carefully, you ensure a smooth process in obtaining the necessary divorce records. If you have any specific queries or need further assistance, it is always a good idea to reach out directly to the Washington State Department of Health.

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.