Order official Wisconsin Divorce Records and Vital Records online

Divorce records play a significant role in various legal and personal matters. They are crucial for processing name changes, verifying marital status, and handling aspects related to inheritance and property settlements. Therefore, it is essential to understand how to obtain a Wisconsin divorce certificate efficiently.

Who Can Request Divorce Records?

In Wisconsin, divorce records are considered confidential and can only be requested by those who are directly involved in the divorce or have a legitimate purpose. This generally includes:

• • The individuals listed on the divorce record (the former spouses);
• • Immediate family members;
• • Legal representatives with proper authority;
• • Court-appointed personnel.

What Documents Are Required?

When requesting a Wisconsin divorce certificate, the following documents are typically required:

• • A completed application form, which can be downloaded from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) website;
• • Valid photo identification (such as a driver's license or passport);
• • Proof of relationship, if applicable (for example, a birth certificate if you are a child of the divorced individuals);
• • Payment for the required fees.

The application form and detailed instructions can be accessed here.

How to Obtain Wisconsin Divorce Records

There are several ways to obtain a Wisconsin divorce certificate:

By Mail

To request by mail, complete the application form and send it along with the required documents and payment to the following address:

Wisconsin Vital Records Office
PO Box 309
Madison, WI 53701-0309

Ensure all information is accurate to avoid delays.

In Person

You can also request divorce records in person by visiting the Wisconsin Vital Records Office located at:

1 West Wilson Street
Room 158
Madison, WI 53703

Office hours are typically Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Bring all required documents and payment.

Online

For convenience, you can order online through the VitalChek service. Follow the instructions on their website, providing necessary documentation and payment electronically.

How Much Do Divorce Records Cost?

The cost for obtaining a Wisconsin divorce certificate is approximately $20 for the first copy and $3 for each additional copy ordered at the same time. Expedited services may incur additional fees, and charges may vary slightly based on the method of request.

Processing Time

By Mail: Typically processed within 2-3 weeks.

In Person: Usually processed the same day if all documents are in order.

Online: Processing times vary but are generally faster, often within a week.

For the most accurate processing times, contact the Wisconsin Vital Records Office directly.

Following these guidelines carefully will ensure a smooth process when obtaining your Wisconsin divorce certificate. If you have specific questions or need further assistance, do not hesitate to reach out to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services directly. Their team is available to provide support and help resolve any issues that may arise during your application process.

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.