Order official West Virginia Death Records and Vital Records online

Death records are vital documents that serve multiple purposes. They provide essential information for legal processes, genealogy research, and personal record-keeping. In West Virginia, obtaining a death certificate requires following specific procedures to ensure the request is authorized and processed efficiently. This guide will help you navigate the application process for West Virginia death records, including who can request them, necessary documentation, application methods, costs, and processing times.

Who Can Request Death Records?

In West Virginia, death records are restricted to certain individuals to protect the privacy and sensitivity of the information. The following parties are typically eligible to request a death certificate:

• • Immediate family members (spouse, parents, children, and siblings);
• • Legal representatives;
• • Individuals with a court order;
• • Genealogists representing family members (with proof of authorization).

What Documents Are Required?

When applying for a West Virginia death certificate, you must provide certain documents to verify your identity and eligibility. These documents include:

• • A completed application form (you can download it here);
• • A copy of your government-issued photo ID;
• • Proof of relationship to the deceased, if applicable;
• • Any additional documentation required by law or specific circumstances (e.g., court orders).

How to Obtain West Virginia Death Records

There are several ways to request death records in West Virginia:

By Mail

To request by mail, send your completed application form, copies of required documents, and payment to the West Virginia Vital Registration Office. Ensure all materials are correctly filled out to avoid delays.

In Person

Visit the office in person at the following address: 350 Capitol Street, Room 165, Charleston, WV 25301-3701. Bring the completed application, necessary documentation, and payment. In-person requests are typically processed faster.

Online

For added convenience, you can apply online through VitalChek, a trusted partner for the state of West Virginia. This method allows you to order records securely from the comfort of your home.

How Much Do Death Records Cost?

The fee for a certified copy of a West Virginia death certificate is $12. Additional copies requested simultaneously are $12 each. Expedited services are available for an additional fee when ordering through VitalChek.

Processing Time

Processing times vary based on the application method:

• • Mail: Typically processed within 5-7 business days upon receipt;
• • In Person: Same day, if all documentation is in order;
• • Online: Expedited processing through VitalChek generally takes 2-3 business days.

In conclusion, obtaining a West Virginia death certificate is a straightforward process if you follow the proper guidelines. Be sure to provide all required documents and double-check the application form for accuracy. If you have any questions or need further assistance, do not hesitate to reach out to the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources directly through their official website. This will ensure a smooth and timely processing of your request.

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.