How Do I Get a Death Certificate in California?
Use our free calculator to determine how many certified death certificates to order based on your specific situation, and see exactly what it will cost in your state.
Frequently Asked Questions
In California, each certified copy costs $26. Copies ordered together cost less than placing separate orders later. The executor checklist outlines each account and institution that typically requires a certified copy.
Death certificates in California are issued by the California Department of Public Health - Vital Records. Online ordering is available. Most funeral homes also assist families with ordering certificates at the time of death.
Processing times in California vary. Contact the California Department of Public Health - Vital Records for current turnaround times. Funeral homes typically handle initial certificate orders at the time of death.
In California, death certificates can be requested by: Parent, legal guardian, child, grandparent, grandchild, sibling, spouse, or domestic partner, Law enforcement or government agency conducting official business, Attorney representing registrant or estate, Surviving next of kin per HSC 7100. Requesters typically need to provide Valid photo ID and Notarized sworn statement for authorized copy requests.
The California Department of Public Health - Vital Records has death records from July 1905 to present. Records become public 50 years after the date of death.
The number of certified copies depends on the deceased's accounts and assets. Banks, insurance companies, government agencies, and retirement plans each typically require an original certified copy. Most families need between 8 and 15 copies. The California executor checklist lists each step of the estate settlement process to help determine the right number.
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California Estate Planning Resources
In-depth guides covering California probate laws, trust requirements, and estate planning strategies.
