Illinois Death Records

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

Death records in Illinois are really a wealth of historical and genealogical information, and can also be important in many different situations. Yet, largely due to the extent of coverage, it can often be difficult to find the Illinois death records you're searching for.

The most thorough source of Illinois death records is probably the Illinois Department of Public Health, which has records dating back to 1917. However, this is not the only resource researchers can use.

The Illinois Regional Area Depository and the Illinois State Archives both have resources involving these useful records, with varying coverage. Additionally, records prior to 1917 may be available through county resources.

In Illinois, death records are considered public 20 years after the fact, with more recent records available to family and those with legal interest. Generally speaking, requests can be presented in person or through the mail, but perhaps the quickest way to find Illinois death records is to use the internet and an online public records finder.

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

You may obtain Illinois death certificates by making your request to the state office if the death occurred from the year 1916 to the present. Earlier death certificates may be obtained from the county clerk in the county the death occurred in. The fee is $17.00 for a certified copy, and $10.00 for a genealogical copy. You may be required to provide proof of relationship or legal right to the copy you request. You may also need to provide ID. For more information visit: Illinois Department of Public Health