Massachusetts Death Records

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

The search for Massachusetts death records can often be complicated, even for experienced researchers. One reason for this is that death records in Massachusetts date back almost 400 years to 1635 in some cases. This means millions upon millions of records to search through. Moreover, all records in Massachusetts aren't kept in the same place.

The oldest records, those from 1635 to 1840, are available in the municipality or city where they were created. Records from 1841 to 1915 are kept in the Massachusetts State Archives. However, the most recent of records, those dating from 1916 to the present, are available by contacting the Massachusetts Registry of Vital Records and Statistics.

The request process for each of these entities can be somewhat different and confusing, but all are bound by Chapter 46, Section 2A of the Massachusetts General Law, which governs who can and can't access certain public records. While this is a lot of data to process, there may be an easier way to find the Massachusetts death records you're searching for. Online searches can be fast, convenient, and best of all effective at finding exactly what you need.

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

Death records have been kept in Massachusetts since 1916. For earlier information you may contact the Massachusetts Archives. If you want to order a copies of Massachusetts death certificates you may apply in person or through the mail. The fees are $18.00 for a copy requested in person, $28.00 through the mail, and $3.00 for archived copies. You may be required to provide photo ID and other information. For more information visit: Massachusetts Department of Health and Human Services