How many death certificates do I need?
Get a personalized, accurate estimate based on your specific situation. Our calculator uses official state fee data and financial industry requirements to help you order the right number of certified copies the first time.
Your Situation
Tell us about the assets and tasks you need to handle. We'll calculate exactly how many certified copies you need.
Financial & Benefits
Usually requires certified copies
401k, IRA, pension plans
Schwab, Fidelity, Vanguard, etc.
Checking, savings, CDs
For account closure
Veterans Affairs benefits
Property & Titles
Houses, condos, land
Cars, trucks, boats, motorcycles
Courts & Government
This is standard practice and recommended
Other Services
Phone, internet, cable, electricity, gas
Recommended: 2-3 extra copies in case one is held for records, mail delays, or unexpected needs.
Your Estimate
Based on official requirements
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Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about death certificates and the ordering process.
Who needs certified vs photocopy?
Certified copies required: Life insurance companies, DMVs for title transfers, probate courts, and most financial institutions for large accounts.
Photocopies often accepted: Credit card companies, utilities, and some banks for account closures.
Should I order through the funeral home?
Yes, when possible. Funeral homes can order multiple copies at the time of death, which is often more convenient and less expensive than ordering additional copies later through the state.
Typical timeline: 1-2 weeks through funeral home vs 3-8 weeks through state.
What if I run out of copies?
You can order additional copies through your state's Department of Health or vital records office. Check the CDC's "Where to Write" directory for your state's specific process and current fees.
Pro tip: Some agencies scan and return originals, so you may be able to reuse them.
Does Social Security need a copy?
Usually not. Most funeral homes automatically notify SSA electronically through the Electronic Death Registration System (EDRS). SSA offices may make a copy of your certificate and return the original.
Bottom line: Don't over-order just for SSA—they're typically handled automatically.
Why Trust Our Calculator?
Our death certificate estimator is built on official data from state health departments, CDC guidelines, and real requirements from financial institutions nationwide.
Official Data Sources
Fees and requirements sourced directly from state health departments and the CDC.
Trusted by Families
Used by thousands of families to avoid over-ordering or running short on copies.
Regularly Updated
Data refreshed monthly to ensure accuracy as state fees and requirements change.
Complete Guide: Death Certificate Copies by State
When someone passes away, obtaining the right number of certified death certificate copies is crucial for settling their estate. This comprehensive calculator helps you determine exactly how many copies you need based on your specific situation.
How Many Death Certificates Do I Need?
The number of death certificates you need depends on several factors including the deceased's assets, financial accounts, and property holdings. Our experience shows most families need between 8-12 certified copies, but this can vary significantly.
Death Certificate Requirements by Institution Type
- Life Insurance Companies: Always require certified copies for claim processing
- Banks and Credit Unions: Usually require certified copies for large accounts; may accept photocopies for smaller accounts
- Investment and Brokerage Accounts: Typically require certified copies for account transfers
- Real Estate and Vehicle Titles: DMVs and county recorders usually require certified copies
- Probate Courts: Generally need 3-5 certified copies for various court filings
- Credit Card Companies: Often accept photocopies for account closure
State-Specific Death Certificate Costs
Death certificate costs vary significantly by state. For example, California charges $24 per copy, while Florida charges $5 for the first copy and $4 for additional copies. New York City has its own fee structure with $15 per copy plus a $40 application processing fee.
Best Practices for Ordering Death Certificates
- Order through your funeral home when possible - it's often cheaper and faster
- Add 2-3 extra copies as a buffer for unexpected needs or mail delays
- Keep track of which institutions accept photocopies to save money
- Some agencies will scan and return your original certified copy
- Order extra copies initially rather than ordering more later, which takes longer and costs more