Obtaining a Death Certificate after a Loved One’s Passing

How to Get a Death Certificate for a Loved One in Jacksonville, FL

Dealing with the death of a loved one in Jacksonville is incredibly challenging. However, it’s necessary to handle their affairs even during the grieving process. A death certificate is one of the most important documents to complete these tasks. A legal record of death is needed to settle estates, file insurance claims and handle other legal and financial matters.

In his video, “How to Get a Death Certificate,” Jacksonville Probate Attorney Bill O’Leary explains that obtaining a death certificate is one of the first things you should do after the death of a loved one in order to handle the financial and legal affairs of the deceased person.

What Is a Death Certificate?

A death certificate is an official document that records the details of a person’s death. It typically includes the deceased’s name, date of birth, date of death, place of death and the cause of death. Many financial and legal institutions require a death certificate to recognize a person’s death and begin acting accordingly.

Some of the main reasons you might need a death certificate include:

• Settling the Estate: You will need a death certificate to manage and distribute the deceased’s estate. Financial institutions, probate courts and other entities will require this document to release funds, transfer property and settle debts.
• Filing Insurance Claims: Life insurance companies require a death certificate to process claims and release benefits to the beneficiaries. Without this document, the claim cannot proceed.
• Closing Accounts: To close or transfer accounts held in the deceased’s name, whether bank accounts, credit cards, or utility services, you will need a death certificate.
• Government Benefits: Agencies such as Social Security and the Veterans Administration require a death certificate to stop benefits and possibly apply for survivor benefits.

Find a checklist of other items to take care of after a loved one’s death in our article, What to Do When Your Spouse Dies in Florida: A Comprehensive Guide

Who Can Get a Copy of a Death Certificate?

Death certificates are typically available to immediate family members, such as spouses, children, parents and siblings. Additional individuals who are connected to the estate of the deceased such as executors, trustees, beneficiaries or heirs may also request a copy.

How Can I Obtain a Death Certificate?

There are a few places you can obtain a certified death certificate. Three options include:

Through the Funeral Home: The easiest way to get a death certificate is through the funeral home handling the arrangements. Funeral directors usually take care of the paperwork and can request multiple copies of the death certificate on your behalf.

From the Department of Vital Statistics: If you need additional copies or did not obtain them through the funeral home, you can request them from the Florida Health Vital Statistics office.  You can find contact information online if your loved one died in Duval County. However, if your loved died in another county, you will need to contact the vital statistics office in the county in which they died to request a death certificate.

Online Services: Several online services specialize in obtaining vital records, including death certificates. Websites like VitalChek provide online order services.

What Information Should I Provide?

When ordering a death certificate either in person or online for a loved one in Jacksonville, you must provide certain information to verify your identity and relationship to the deceased. This information typically includes:

• Full name of the deceased
• Date and place of death
• Last county of residence of the deceased
• Your relationship to the deceased
• Reason for requesting the certificate
• Your contact information and an ID

Be prepared as well to pay a service fee for each copy requested, which can range in price from $5 to $30 a copy.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Death Certificate?

The time it takes to receive a death certificate can vary. According to NerdWallet, it takes about two to four weeks after the death is registered. This time frame can be longer if there are delays in the paperwork or if additional copies are requested later.

How Many Death Certificate Copies Do You Need?

It’s advisable to get several certified copies of the death certificate. Many institutions will require an original copy, and having multiple copies can speed up settling the deceased’s affairs. Jacksonville Probate Lawyer Bill O’Leary recommends getting 10 copies of the short form death certificate. The short form is the 8 1/2 by 11 sized certificate that does not include the cause of death.

Estate Planning Can Help You Handle the Death of a Loved One

Dealing with a loved one’s death is never easy. However, having a plan in place can make the process more manageable. A last will and testament can clarify questions of inheritance, while trusts can preserve the value of your estate and direct your assets to specific goals.

Legacy Planning Law Group is your source for compassionate, knowledgeable support after the passing of a loved one.  If you have questions about estate administration or need assistance managing the Florida probate process, schedule a free discovery call with our team today.

Key Takeaways

• Essential for Legal Processes: Death certificates are required to settle estates, file insurance claims and close accounts.
• Multiple Sources Available: Death certificates can be obtained through funeral homes, state vital records offices, or online services.
• Have Required Information: Be prepared to provide details like the deceased’s name, date of death and your relationship to the deceased.
• Multiple Copies Needed: Getting several certified copies for different institutions is advisable.

Reference: NerdWallet (Jan. 18, 2023) “How to Get a Death Certificate, How Long It Takes”