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Before you order:
- One of the following is required to order online: email, fax machine, scanner, or smart device.
- The only people entitled to order online are the spouse, child, parent or sibling of the deceased, a legal representative of an entitled party, or somebody with a legal need for the death certificate (see step 7).
- Children and siblings must also provide proof of relationship. This can be a copy of your birth certificate showing your parents’ names, or a copy of an obituary showing your relationship to the deceased.
- You must use your own card if you are using the online form. If someone else will be paying, please order by mail or fax.
- We only offer domestic shipping for online orders. Please contact us if you need international shipping.
- Orders will be processed within 7-10 business days.
To Order a Death Certificate:
- Complete the online request form (secure server). Please be sure to complete the applicant and mailing address portions.
- Review the form: Please be sure to complete the applicant and mailing address portions. The decedent’s name and date of death are required on the form, but we may require additional information to verify which record you need.
- Payment: Discover, MasterCard and Visa credit cards are accepted. The cardholder’s name must match the applicant’s name. The fee is $30.00 for the first certified copy and $15.00 for each additional duplicate when ordered at the same time.
- Cover sheet: Once “Complete Order” button is clicked, a signature verification sheet will be e-mailed to you. Please sign and date the cover sheet then return it. Note: Every time you click “Complete Order” your card will be charged! If you are experiencing difficulties please contact our office at (315) 435-3241.
- ID: Include a signed copy of your identification. If your ID has a signature or information on the front and back you must send a copy of both sides. Please make sure the copy is readable, large and clear. Examples of acceptable identification are:
- Photo drivers license with signature
- Non-driver photo ID with signature
- Passport with signature
- Military ID with signature
- Employer’s photo ID with signature
- Photo social services card with signature
- Verification: Your completed cover sheet and proper ID can be faxed to (315) 435-3614, or scanned and attached to an e-mail to vsorders@ongov.net. A certificate is only issued after a completed request form, signed cover sheet, proper identification, and payment are received.
- Letter of legal need: If you are not an entitled party, or a legal representative of an entitled party, you must submit a letter from the company, office or agency that needs the document. A letter of legal need is:
- On letterhead (of company, office, or agency)
- Addressed to you
- Specifically states that a copy of the decedent’s death certificate is required
- Included in addition to a completed application, and ID
Expedited Orders (Domestic Shipping Only)
- Priority Mail (USPS delivery 2-3 business days) Add $20.00
- Next Business Day (UPS delivery) Add $25.00
- All other orders are sent by USPS First-Class Mail. Certificates typically arrive within 1 – 2 weeks, but delivery may take up to 1 month.
