Wisconsin Death Records

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

As important as birth records can be, genealogical researchers would often find themselves unable to go forward without the type of information provided on death certificates. Establishing the dates on your family tree can be an interesting and rewarding challenge, but depending on which state the record is in, there are different rules that determine its availability. Getting a hold of Wisconsin death records means familiarizing yourself with the state's vital records guidelines.?

Unlike a lot of states, vital records registration in Wisconsin was voluntary until 1907, and it is estimated that less than half of all events were recorded before this time. Each Wisconsin county has its own registration date cut-offs, so depending on where the record is, finding it may be quite easy even if it is older than 1907. Death records from 2003 to the present are kept with more confidential files, so if you need to access information about a more recent death, you will need to get help from a?vital records staff member to complete your search.

No matter when or where they died within Wisconsin, however, chances are good that you can still find some record of their passing.

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

Wisconsin death certificates are available from the state office from the year 1907 to the present, and only some records being available from 1857 to 1907. There is a fee of $20.00, which may be paid with personal check or money order. You may also need to provide a photo ID, and the reason you want a copy. For more information visit: Wisconsin Department of Health Services