Public death records are vital records which are the prime sources of genealogical information. A death record is a legal document which is signed by the attending physician and proves the date and cause of a person’s death. These are maintained by civil authorities. Death records play an important role in genealogy research, because they can often provide details on family members.

Certified copies of death records have been made available since the year 1919. The vital records also include birth, death, marriage and divorce records. There are certain websites which offer information on how to obtain vital records from each state, territory and county of the United States. The death record usually contains the full name of the person, the date of birth, the date of death, and the county, state or town where the death took place. Death records often mention where the dead body is buried and specify the name of the person who reported the death. Sometimes death records may help people to find ancestors. Any relative of a deceased individual is defined as an heir.

These records are kept in a central repository, which is usually a part of the Department of Health. The funeral director submits the forms upon an individual’s death to the State for recording of the death. Those who want a death record can apply for a copy of that from their state’s Bureau. The copy can be obtained through local county offices such as county clerk’s offices or registrar’s offices depending on the state. The applications in person and by mail, overnight mail service and fax are accepted by most offices. Some states offer an application process through the Internet also. The death certificate information being confidential, only immediate family members, guardians and legal representatives are allowed access to them. The cost of a death record ranges from $34.95 to $57.95.

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