Pennsylvania Death Records

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

Pennsylvania death records are sometimes difficult to find but are generally well worth the trouble for those who need the documents for legal reasons as well as for other research. Finding Pennsylvania death records can be made much easier if you understand how death records are stored in the state.

In Pennsylvania, death records are kept by the Division of Vital Records. This office has records dating back to 1906, but older records are available on the county level and/or through the Pennsylvania State Archives.

Conventional wisdom holds that the only way to order death records is to send a written request to the office that has the record. However, internet public records locators can frequently offer a quicker and easier way to get the same Pennsylvania death records that you may need.

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

Pennsylvania death certificates and records have been kept in the state office since 1906. In order to receive a copy of a Pennsylvania death certificate or information you must fill out an application, pay the fee of $10.00, provide a copy of a government issued photo ID, and your signature. Only the person named, immediate family members, and those with a legal need for it may obtain a copy. For more information visit: Pennsylvania Department of Health