Death Certificates

The Death Certificate

A death certificate is important for a number of personal, statistical and legal reasons. When a loved one passes away, obtaining a death certificate is a critical part of estate settlement. In the days and weeks after a loss, certified death certificates will be required by different agencies. Death certificates can be ordered for you by the funeral director assisting you.

In some cases, there may be a need to obtain a certified copy of the death certificate without a cause of death. These certificates are needed to transfer the title on a house, mobile home, and automobile or in some cases for court procedures. You should make this request when ordering the certified copies.
death certificates Sherman's Flatbush

Personal Reasons

While the death certificate is required for legal purposes by many agencies, there are also personal reasons to obtain one. One of the most important aspects of obtaining a death certificate is to provide the family with closure and peace of mind. The death certificate gives the family a document listing the official cause of death and is helpful in accepting the loss. Not only that but it makes the legal proceedings that follow a death that much easier and thus less stressful.

Legal Reasons

Whether you are applying for insurance benefits, settlement of pension claims, or transfer of property; a death certificate will be required. It is a legal document that identifies the deceased’s cause of death and final disposition. If the question of death arises in a legal proceeding, the death certificate serves as evidence and proof of death.

Statistical Reasons

Death certificates are a vital part of state national statistics. In addition to measuring the health status of regions at the local, state, national and international level, it is also used to set public health goals. Much of medical research funding is used to determine which medical conditions receive funding.

How to Get a Death Certificate

Before you are able to settle an estate or any other business and legal matters, a certified copy of the death certificate is often necessary. In many cases, agencies will only accept certified death certificates and not photocopies. We recommend that you order multiple copies as you may require more that you believe. Certified copies of the death certificate can be order through either:
  • Your Funeral Director
  • The Register of Vital Statistics in your area
In some cases, it may be necessary to obtain a certified copy of the death certificate without a cause of death listed. This is often the case when transferring the title on a home, mobile home, and automobile or in some cases for court procedures. This request should be made when ordering the certified copies.

For more information about death certificates or how to obtain a copy, please contact us. A member of our staff would be happy to assist you.
Share by: