Guides / How many death certificates do you need?
How many death certificates do you need?
There's no official number. Count the companies and offices that will ask for one, then add a few spares.
How to count
Make a list of each place that may want a certified copy. Each life insurer, bank, investment firm, pension plan, county land office and motor vehicle office may ask. Some will accept a copy, so ask before you send a certified one. Ask whether they'll send it back.
Where to get them
Death certificates come from the state where the death happened. The CDC's list shows where to write in each state, and your state's page shows the office and price we could verify. The funeral home can often order copies too.
Who can order one
Many states limit certified copies to certain family members, such as a spouse, sibling or child. USA.gov says to check with the vital records office in the state of death.
Keep them safe
A death certificate contains private information. Mail it only to people who need it, and keep a list of where each copy went.
Where this comes from
Checked November 6, 2026. This is general information, not legal advice. See how we check facts or report a mistake.