Arkansas Death Records

To begin, add a death record or view a list of locations and resources for Arkansas death records.

Death records are a valuable part of many types of research, especially genealogy. Searches focusing on a specific state are often the most effective, which could easily explain interest in Arkansas death records.

Arkansas has death records dating back to February of 1914, and some older records that may be as old as 1881, all of which are held by the Department of Health in the Vital Records Office. In addition, the Arkansas History Commission keeps a list of the names of the deceased from 1914-1949, but does not have actual death records.

Arkansas Statute 20-18-305 stipulates that death records that are less than 50 years old are not considered public record, however anyone may order an older record. If you need a death record more recent than this, you may still be eligible if you're related to the deceased, researching genealogy, or are otherwise registered.

To place an order, you may choose to mail in your request and wait several weeks. If you need more rapid results, internet searches can help you get exactly what you need in far less time.

To receive a death record fill out the Arkansas Death Certificate Mail-in Form. Mail your application to:

Arkansas death certificates are available from 1914 to now for deaths occurring in the state of Arkansas. You may obtain some death certificates which date as far back as 1881 in Little Rock and Fort Smith, AR. When you apply, you will need to pay the small, non-refundable fee of $10.00 by check or money order. Death records are available to anyone who is an immediate family member of the deceased person, and certain other parties who would need to prove their right to and need for the copy requested. For more information visit: Arkansas Department of Health