When settling an estate after losing a loved one, you'll need certified copies of the death certificate. Sunset recommends using VitalCheck.
VitalChek is the authorized online partner for over 450 government vital records agencies across the United States, making it the fastest and most convenient way to order death certificates from home.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know about ordering death certificates through VitalChek, including costs by state and expected delivery times.
What is VitalChek?
VitalChek is the exclusive online processor authorized by government agencies nationwide to handle vital records requests. Unlike other online services that may add hidden fees or simply mail paper applications on your behalf, VitalChek submits your information directly to the issuing agency electronically. This typically results in faster processing times compared to traditional mail-in applications.
Key benefits of using VitalChek:
Convenience: Order 24/7 from any device
Speed: Electronic submission often reduces processing time significantly
Security: PCI-compliant with electronic identity verification
Tracking: Express shipping options allow you to track your package
Direct from source: Certificates ship directly from the government agency to you
What You'll Need to Order
Before starting your order, gather the following information:
About the deceased:
Full legal name (including maiden name if applicable)
Date of death
Place of death (city, county, and state)
Social Security Number (if known)
Date of birth
About yourself:
Valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID)
Your relationship to the deceased
Proof of your relationship (may be required in some states)
Payment:
Credit or debit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover accepted)
Step-by-Step Ordering Process
Step 1: Go to VitalChek.com
Visit www.vitalchek.com and select "Death Certificates" from the main menu.
Step 2: Select Your State
Choose the state where the death occurred. VitalChek will connect you with the appropriate vital records agency for that location.
Step 3: Complete the Application
Fill out the online form with the required information about the deceased. The form typically takes 5-10 minutes to complete. VitalChek provides helpful hints throughout the process to ensure accuracy.
Step 4: Verify Your Identity
VitalChek uses electronic identity verification through LexisNexis to confirm you're eligible to receive the death certificate. In some cases, you may need to upload additional documentation, such as:
A copy of your photo ID
Proof of your relationship to the deceased
Legal documentation (such as letters testamentary if you're the executor)
Step 5: Select Number of Copies
Choose how many certified copies you need. Each copy is an official, certified document that can be used for legal purposes.
💡 Sunset Tip: If you're using Sunset to help settle the estate, you typically only need 2-3 certified copies of the death certificate. Traditional advice suggests ordering 15 or more copies, but Sunset's digital processes and direct partnerships with financial institutions mean you can handle most tasks with far fewer physical certificates—saving you money upfront.
Step 6: Choose Your Shipping Method
Select your preferred delivery option:
Standard Mail (USPS): Usually free or low cost, but no tracking available
UPS Next Day Saver: Approximately $19-21, includes tracking and requires signature upon delivery
We recommend UPS shipping for the security and tracking capabilities.
Step 7: Review and Submit Payment
Review your order for accuracy, then submit payment. You'll receive a confirmation email with your order number and PIN, which you can use to track your order status.
Understanding the Costs
When ordering through VitalChek, your total cost includes several components:
State/Agency Certificate Fee: The base cost charged by the government agency (varies by state)
VitalChek Processing Fee: Typically $7-13 depending on the state
Shipping Fee: Free for standard mail; $15-21 for express UPS delivery
Rush/Priority Fee: Some states offer expedited processing for an additional $10-25
State-by-State Death Certificate Fees and Processing Times
Below is a comprehensive breakdown of death certificate costs and typical processing times for each state. Note that fees may change, and processing times can vary based on agency workload.
Alabama
First copy: $15
Additional copies: $6 each
Expedited fee: $15
Standard processing: 2-3 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Alaska
First copy: $30
Additional copies: $25 each
Standard processing: 2-4 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Arizona
Per copy: $20
Standard processing: 1-2 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Arkansas
Per copy: $12
Additional copies: $10 each
Standard processing: 2-4 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
California
Per copy: $21-28 (varies by county)
Standard processing: 2-4 weeks (can be longer at state level)
VitalChek processing fee: ~$12-13
Note: Order from the county where death occurred for faster service
Colorado
Per copy: $20
Standard processing: 2-3 weeks
Rush processing: 5-7 business days
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Connecticut
Per copy: $20
Standard processing: 3-4 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Delaware
Per copy: $25
Additional copies: $10 each
Standard processing: 2-3 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
District of Columbia
Per copy: $18
Standard processing: 2-4 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Florida
Per copy: $10
Rush fee: $10
Standard processing: 2-3 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$7
Note: Two versions available—one with cause of death (restricted access) and one without
Georgia
Per copy: $25
Additional copies: $5 each
Standard processing: 2-4 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Hawaii
Per copy: $12.50
Standard processing: 3-4 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Idaho
Per copy: $16
Rush fee: $10
Standard processing: 3-5 weeks
Rush processing: 2-3 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10.50
Illinois
Per copy: $19
Additional copies: $4 each
Standard processing: 4-6 weeks
Rush processing: 5-10 business days
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Indiana
Per copy: $10
Additional copies: $4 each
Standard processing: 2-3 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Iowa
Per copy: $20
Standard processing: 2-4 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Kansas
Per copy: $15
Standard processing: 2-3 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Kentucky
Per copy: $10
Standard processing: 2-4 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Louisiana
Per copy: $15
Standard processing: 2-4 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Maine
Per copy: $15
Additional copies: $6 each
Standard processing: 2-4 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Maryland
Per copy: $24
Standard processing: 3-4 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Massachusetts
Per copy: $20-32 (varies by municipality)
Standard processing: 3-5 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Michigan
Per copy: $26
Additional copies: $12 each
Standard processing: 3-4 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Minnesota
First copy: $13
Additional copies: $6 each
Standard processing: 2-3 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Mississippi
Per copy: $15
Additional copies: $5 each
Standard processing: 4-8 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Missouri
Per copy: $15
Standard processing: 2-4 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Montana
Per copy: $15
Standard processing: 2-4 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Nebraska
Per copy: $16
Standard processing: 2-3 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Nevada
Per copy: $25
Standard processing: 2-3 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
New Hampshire
Per copy: $15
Additional copies: $10 each
Standard processing: 2-4 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
New Jersey
Per copy: $25
Standard processing: 2-4 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
New Mexico
Per copy: $10
Standard processing: 2-4 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
New York (State)
Per copy: $30
Priority handling fee: $15 per copy
Standard processing: 2-4 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$8
New York City
Per copy: $15
Standard processing: 2-4 weeks (can be longer for older records)
Express delivery: $21 additional
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
North Carolina
First copy: $24
Additional copies: $15 each
Standard processing: Can be 10-15+ weeks at state level
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Note: County Register of Deeds offices often faster
North Dakota
Per copy: $10
Standard processing: 1-2 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Ohio
Per copy: $21.50
Standard processing: 2-3 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Oklahoma
Per copy: $20
Standard processing: 2-3 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Oregon
Per copy: $25
Additional copies: $25 each
Standard processing: 2-4 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Pennsylvania
Per copy: $20
Online processing fee: $10 additional
Standard processing: 3-4 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Rhode Island
Per copy: $22
Additional copies: $17 each
Standard processing: 2-3 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
South Carolina
First copy: $12
Additional copies: $3 each
Standard processing: 2-4 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
South Dakota
Per copy: $15
Standard processing: 2-3 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Tennessee
Per copy: $15
Additional copies: $5 each
Standard processing: 2-4 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Texas
First copy: $20
Additional copies: $3 each
Rush fee: $25
Standard processing: 5-6 weeks
Rush processing: 3-5 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Utah
Per copy: $22
Standard processing: 2-3 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Vermont
Per copy: $12
Standard processing: 2-3 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Virginia
Per copy: $12
Standard processing: 2-5 days (with VitalChek priority)
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Washington
Per copy: $25
Additional copies: $25 each
Standard processing: 4-5 business days (with VitalChek)
VitalChek processing fee: ~$11.50
West Virginia
Per copy: $12
Standard processing: 2-4 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Wisconsin
Per copy: $20
Standard processing: 2-3 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
Wyoming
Per copy: $13
Standard processing: 2-3 weeks
VitalChek processing fee: ~$10-13
How Many Death Certificates Do You Really Need?
Traditional estate planning advice often recommends ordering 10-20 certified death certificates because many institutions historically required original certified copies that they would retain. However, this guidance is outdated for most situations today.
Why Sunset Users Need Fewer Copies
If you're using Sunset to help settle the estate, 2-3 certified copies are typically sufficient. Here's why:
Digital processes: Many financial institutions now accept scanned or digital copies for initial verification
Sunset's direct partnerships: We work directly with 600+ financial institutions and can often verify death information through our established relationships
Certificates are returned: Most institutions that require original certified copies will return them after verification
On-demand ordering: If you need additional copies later, you can order them through VitalChek—it's easy to get more
When You Might Need More Copies
You may want to order additional copies if:
You're handling a large estate with many financial accounts that must be processed simultaneously
You need to work with multiple attorneys or courts at the same time
The estate involves real property in multiple states
You're not using Sunset or another estate settlement service
Cost Comparison
Consider the savings when ordering fewer certificates:
Copies Ordered | Approximate Total Cost* |
3 copies | $60-90 |
10 copies | $180-250 |
15 copies | $260-375 |
*Based on average state fees plus VitalChek processing and standard shipping
By ordering only what you need, you can save $100-300 or more—money that stays in the estate.
Tracking Your Order
After placing your order, you can track its status:
Go to VitalChek.com
Click "My Order" in the top navigation
Enter your order number and PIN (from your confirmation email)
View your current order status
If you selected UPS shipping, you'll also receive tracking information once the agency ships your certificates.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
"Record Not Found"
If the agency cannot locate the death record:
Verify the death occurred in that state/county
Check for spelling variations of the name
Confirm the date of death is accurate
The record may not yet be filed (allow 2-3 weeks after death for filing)
Identity Verification Failed
If electronic identity verification fails:
You'll be prompted to upload documentation
Follow the instructions carefully
Ensure all documents are clearly legible
Contact VitalChek customer service if problems persist
Delayed Processing
Processing delays can occur due to:
High volume periods
Incomplete applications
Additional verification requirements
Agency staffing issues
If your order is significantly delayed beyond the expected timeframe, contact VitalChek customer service at 1-800-255-2414.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who can order a death certificate? A: Typically, immediate family members (spouse, children, parents, siblings), legal representatives, funeral directors, and others with a direct legal or financial interest in the record. Requirements vary by state.
Q: Can I order death certificates for someone who died years ago? A: Yes, VitalChek can help you obtain death certificates for deaths that occurred many years ago, subject to state records availability. Very old records may require additional research fees.
Q: What's the difference between an "authorized" and "informational" copy? A: An authorized (or certified) copy is the official legal document you need for financial and legal matters. An informational copy is typically stamped "Not Valid for Legal Purposes" and is used mainly for genealogical research.
Q: Are VitalChek certificates legitimate? A: Yes. VitalChek is the authorized partner of government vital records agencies. The certificates come directly from the official government agency—VitalChek simply facilitates the ordering process.
Q: Can I get a refund if I order too many copies? A: No, VitalChek and government agency fees are non-refundable once the order is processed. This is why we recommend ordering only what you need.
Need Help?
If you're a Sunset user and have questions about how many death certificates to order or need assistance with the estate settlement process, our team is here to help. Reach out through your Sunset dashboard or contact our support team.
For VitalChek-specific questions, contact their customer service:
Phone: 1-800-255-2414
Website: www.vitalchek.com
Last updated: December 2024. Fees and processing times are subject to change. Always verify current fees on VitalChek.com or with your state's vital records office.