How Do I Get a Death Certificate in Minnesota?

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.

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Death certificate requirements and fees vary by state and are subject to change. This calculator provides estimates based on publicly available data. Contact your state vital records office for current pricing and availability.Data verified 2026-04-21

Frequently Asked Questions

In Minnesota, the first certified copy costs $13, with additional copies at $6 each when ordered at the same time. Copies ordered together cost less than placing separate orders later. The estate settlement plan outlines each account and institution that typically requires a certified copy.

Death certificates in Minnesota are issued by the Minnesota Department of Health - Office of Vital Records. Contact the office directly for ordering options. Most funeral homes also assist families with ordering certificates at the time of death.

Processing times in Minnesota vary. Contact the Minnesota Department of Health - Office of Vital Records for current turnaround times. Funeral homes typically handle initial certificate orders at the time of death.

In Minnesota, death certificates can be requested by: All Minnesota death records are public, Anyone may buy a noncertified (informational only) death record, Certified copies require proof of eligibility. Requesters typically need to provide Photo ID and Forms signed in front of notary for mail/fax orders, or in front of county staff for in-person.

The Minnesota Department of Health - Office of Vital Records has death records from 1908 to present. Pre-1908 records only available from county where death occurred

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 Minnesota estate settlement plan lists each step of the estate settlement process to help determine the right number.

Death Certificates in Minnesota

Most families underestimate how many certified death certificates they need. Banks, insurance companies, government agencies, and financial institutions each typically require an original certified copy with a raised seal. The first copy costs $13 and additional copies cost $6 each when ordered together — significantly less than placing separate orders later.

Estate settlement in Minnesota begins with notifying banks, insurers, and government agencies — each requiring a certified copy. The probate timeline starts at 4 months for simple estates, with a 4 months creditor claim window. Delays in obtaining certificates can extend this timeline further.

The Minnesota estate settlement plan walks through every step from obtaining death certificates to final distribution. For a full breakdown of probate fees and timeline, see the probate cost calculator.