South Dakota Death Records

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

South Dakota death records, like most other public records, can be useful, but they can also seem somewhat mysterious or foreboding. People may feel that accessing South Dakota death records is either not possible or too complicated for them to handle. Actually, finding South Dakota death records is relatively straightforward for those that know a few basic search principles.

In South Dakota, the Vital Records Office maintains death records and has records that were filed beginning in 1905. While official records are not available for public viewing, informational copies of death records may be issued to those who do not meet all the requirements for viewing certified certificates.

Those needing to receive copies of South Dakota death records would have originally been limited to mailing in their requests. But new internet technology such as public records searches means that researchers may be able to find the information they need from home, often in far less time than with traditional written methods.

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

South Dakota death certificates and records are available from the state office, dating back to 1905. There is a fee of $15.00, which may be paid with personal check or money order. You may need to prove eligibility by either relationship or legal necessity. You will also have to provide a photo ID, and your signature. For more information visit: South Dakota Department of Health