Getting a death certificate is an important part of handling final affairs for a deceased loved one. Many details must be gathered and verified before a death certificate can be issued. This process involves coordination between funeral homes, doctors, and government vital records offices.
Typical Timeline for Receiving a Death Certificate From a Funeral Home
It usually takes 1-2 weeks to receive a death certificate from a funeral home. Here are some key steps in the timeline:
- The funeral home files paperwork with the local health department within 24-48 hours of the death. This includes submitting a proof of death statement.
- The health department verifies the death and prepares the official death certificate. This can take 3-5 business days.
- Once approved, the health department sends copies of the death certificate to the funeral home. The funeral home typically receives certificates within 7-10 days.
- The funeral home then distributes certificates to the deceased’s next of kin or executor of estate. This adds another 1-3 days.
So in total, expect to wait 1-2 weeks to get death certificates from a funeral home under normal circumstances. Delays can occur during busy seasons or if more verification is needed. Follow up with the funeral home if you don’t receive certificates after 2 weeks.
Factors That Can Delay a Death Certificate
Here are some common reasons a death certificate may take longer than the typical 1-2 weeks:
- Cause of death is unknown and more investigation is needed. This includes pending autopsies and medical tests.
- Submission errors that require paperwork to be re-filed. This includes mistakes or missing information.
- Backlogs at the health department’s vital records office, especially during peak seasons.
- Extensive family coordination is needed to verify the deceased’s information.
- Death occurred out of state and records must be transferred.
- Holidays or office closures lead to processing delays.
If you encounter delays, check with the funeral home for status updates. Provide any additional information needed to complete the death certificate.
Paying Extra for Expedited Processing
Some health departments offer expedited processing for an additional fee, such as:
- Same-day issuance for in-person requests
- 24-48 hour processing for mail requests
- Online requests with electronic delivery
Check with your local health department for options to expedite death certificate requests. Funeral homes can also request rush processing, with costs passed onto the family.
Ordering Extra Death Certificate Copies
It’s smart to order plenty of extra death certificate copies up front. Having multiple originals avoids delays later when you need to request additional certified copies.
The funeral home can order extra copies on your behalf directly through the health department. Some tips when ordering:
- Order at least 10-20 copies to start. You’ll use these for financial accounts, insurance, closing accounts, and other estate matters.
- Check the cost per copy in your state first. Fees typically range from $10-$25 per certified copy.
- Store certificates securely, such as in a safe deposit box. They are difficult to replace if lost or damaged.
Ordering extra death certificates with the initial processing ensures you have plenty of official copies for handling affairs.
How many death certificates should I order?
Order at least 10-20 copies to start. You’ll need an original certificate for each financial account, insurance policy, government agency, and other entities.
Can I get a copy of the death certificate online?
Some states allow you to order certified copies online through the health department’s website. Check if your state offers online death certificate ordering.
What if I need a death certificate quickly?
You can pay an expedited processing fee to get a death certificate faster, often within 24-48 hours. Check with the health department on rush order options.
What happens if I lose a death certificate?
Contact the health department’s vital records office to order a replacement. You typically need to fill out an application and pay a fee per copy. Protect certificates to avoid the hassle of replacing lost ones.
Summary – Getting a Death Certificate From a Funeral Home
Expect to receive a death certificate through the funeral home within 1-2 weeks under normal circumstances. Be prepared for potential delays from verification issues, backlogs, or other administrative factors. Order extra copies up front to avoid needing to request more later. Follow up politely with the funeral home if you don’t receive the certificates within 2 weeks.