How Do I Get a Death Certificate in Virginia?
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 Virginia, each certified copy costs $12. 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 Virginia are issued by the Virginia Department of Health - Office of Vital Records. Online ordering is available. Most funeral homes also assist families with ordering certificates at the time of death.
Standard processing in Virginia takes Currently experiencing delays beyond normal 2 weeks due to high volume. Funeral homes typically handle initial certificate orders at the time of death.
In Virginia, death certificates can be requested by: Immediate family only: mother, father, current spouse, child, brother, sister, grandparents, Aunts, uncles, cousins, in-laws NOT eligible. Requesters typically need to provide Valid photo ID.
The Virginia Department of Health - Office of Vital Records has death records from 1912 to present. Records become public 25 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 Virginia executor checklist lists each step of the estate settlement process to help determine the right number.
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Virginia Estate Planning Resources
In-depth guides covering Virginia probate laws, trust requirements, and estate planning strategies.
