subject: Simple Ways To Find Death Records [print this page] Once the search for death records begins, one can see how hard it is to access them. States tend to store their records in varied ways and the access will vary, as well. Many believe that because so much is available online, they should easily located the records of those who have passed on.
In many states, death information is stored in the vital records department along with birth record and marriage information. Some states use the local health department to handle their records, and even still, the records may be in the state's archives. Before the Internet existed, people either visited those departments personally or called and made a request for information, so that they may send in money to pay for it through the mail.
Death records can be located in many different areas or in fact, may not have been filed at all. Because of the vastness of the Internet, it has become easier to find what one needs. To save time an online record search can often narrow down the location and allow one to place an order for the death certificate if the state allows.
To close out the estate of someone who has dies, death information is needed. Those eligible to collect under social security or military benefits am also find these records to be necessary. The same goes for life insurance. If one builds a family tree, the information on death certificates can be used for accuracy.
Prices that each state lists for death certificates will vary. In some states a certificate can be obtained for under ten dollars. There are then states that charge over twenty dollars to retrieve records.
Online databases are intuitive enough so that users may be led to the correct area in which to search for records. The same users will find additional information on what is needed before making a request. One state may need more information than another state.
