Ordering Death Certificates By Mail
Note: Only the spouse, child* or parent of the deceased is authorized to request and receive a death record. If you are not a spouse, child or parent, and you have a legal need for the document, please refer to step 6 below.
*A child of the deceased must provide a copy of their own birth certificate showing deceased parent listed as proof of relationship.
1. Print the online request form.
2. Complete and sign the form.
3. Include a check or money order payable to the Office of Vital Statistics, or a signed credit card form. The fee is $30.00 for the first certified copy and $15.00 for each additional copy of the same certificate when ordered at the same time. If you pay by check, you must include your phone number on the check.
4. Include a signed copy of your identification. Examples of acceptable identification are:
- Photo driver license with signature
- Non-driver photo license with signature
- Passport with signature
- Military ID with signature
- Employer's photo ID with signature
- Photo social services card with signature
If the identification you are submitting has your information on the front and your signature on the back, you must send a copy of both sides. Please make sure the copy is readable. Enlarging and lightening the image of your identification on the copier may help.
5. Mail the request to: Office of Vital Statistics, 421 Montgomery Street, Room 20 Basement Civic Center, Syracuse, NY 13202. A certificate will only be issued after a completed request form, a copy of your identification, and payment are received.
6. If you are not the spouse, child or parent of the deceased, but have a legal need for the death certificate, you must also submit a letter from the office or agency that needs the document. The letter must:
- Be on the company’s letterhead
- Be addressed to you
- Specifically state that a copy of the deceased’s death certificate is needed
- Be signed by a company representative
- Be mailed with a copy of your identification, request form and payment information
Express Mail (2 to 3 day delivery) is available for an additional $20.00. Next business day delivery is available for an additional $25.00. All other orders will be sent U.S. Mail. Regular mail requests will take approximately 7-10 business days to be processed.
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