Order official Wisconsin Death Records and Vital Records online

Death records serve as vital documents for various purposes, including genealogical research, legal procedures, and personal record-keeping. They provide official documentation of a person's death, which is essential when handling matters such as estate settlements, insurance claims, and other legal affairs. If you need to obtain a Wisconsin death certificate, understanding the application process and requirements will ensure a smooth and efficient experience.

Who Can Request Death Records?

In Wisconsin, death records are considered confidential and can only be requested by certain individuals. These include:

• • Immediate family members such as a spouse, parent, child, sibling, or grandchild;
• • Legal representatives or agents acting on behalf of the decedent or their family;
• • Genealogists or researchers conducting legitimate historical research with proper authorization.

What Documents Are Required?

When applying for a Wisconsin death certificate, you must provide the following:

• • A completed Application for a Copy of a Death Certificate form, which can be accessed and downloaded from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services website;
• • Proof of identity, such as a driver’s license, state ID, or passport;
• • Any required fees (discussed in a later section).

For detailed instructions and to download the form, visit the official Wisconsin Department of Health Services website.

How to Obtain Wisconsin Death Records

By Mail

To request death records by mail:

• • Complete the application form and gather the necessary documents;
• • Send your application and payment to the Wisconsin Vital Records Office's mailing address.

In Person

Visit the State Vital Records Office or your local County Register of Deeds. Bring the completed application form, identification, and payment. This method often provides faster processing times.

Online

You can also request death records online via VitalChek, an authorized online service provider. This method offers the convenience of processing from home and options for expedited shipping.

Ensure all information is accurate and complete to avoid any delays. Double-check the required documents and forms before submission.

How Much Do Death Records Cost?

The cost of obtaining a Wisconsin death certificate is as follows:

• • The first copy: $20;
• • Additional copies of the same record ordered at the same time: $3 each.

Expedited service options are available through online requests for an additional fee. Prices may vary, so it's best to check the latest details on the Wisconsin Department of Health Services website or the VitalChek site.

Processing Time

Processing times for death records applications depend on the method used:

• • Mail: Typically 1-2 weeks;
• • In Person: Same day if no issues arise;
• • Online: Varies, but expedited options can result in faster processing.

During peak times or due to unforeseen circumstances, processing times may be extended. It's recommended to submit requests well ahead of when the records are needed.

Following these guidelines carefully will help ensure a smooth and efficient process when obtaining Wisconsin death records. If you have any specific questions or require further assistance, do not hesitate to contact the Wisconsin Department of Health Services directly. Their dedicated staff are ready to help you with any inquiries or additional support you may need.

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.