The paperwork · Michigan
Almost everything that comes after a death, from the bank to the life insurance company, asks for a certified copy. Here is what a copy costs in Michigan, where to order it, and how many to get.
Order about 10 certified copies at the start. It costs less to buy them together than to come back for more later, and nearly every office will want an original, not a photocopy.
From the state vital records office
Cost of a certified copy: $34.00 (Rush fee additional $12.00)
Mail requests to: Vital Records Request P.O. Box 30721 Lansing, MI 48909
State office has records of deaths that occurred and were filed with the state since 1867. Some of the records (especially pre-1897 deaths) were not filed with the state. Death records are not restricted so anyone can order. Personal check or money order should be made payable to State of Michigan. Fees are $34.00 for the search and first certified copy of any death record. Additional copies of any record ordered at the same time are $16.00 each. To request an application the telephone number is (517) 335-8666 and press option #1. This will be a recorded message. To speak to a customer service representative call 517-335-8666 and press option #3. Information on how to obtain certified copies is also available via the Michigan Department of Health & Human Services website. City of Detroit Vital Records office was closed effective 12/13/13 and all records transferred to Wayne County. You may obtain Detroit records from the State Office or the Wayne County Office.Marriage
If the family cannot afford a funeral, call the county burial assistance program before signing anything with a funeral home. Find your county on the Michigan help page, and see what else is owed to you in the first 48 hours checklist.
Questions families ask
The state vital records office lists the cost of a certified copy as: $34.00 (Rush fee additional $12.00) Fees can change, so confirm on the official site before you send payment.
Most families need about 10. Banks, life insurance, Social Security, the vehicle title office, retirement accounts, and property transfers each tend to want an original certified copy, and many will not accept a photocopy.
Yes. Funeral homes file the death record for you and can usually order certified copies at the same time. If you are using a county burial program instead, ask the caseworker how copies are ordered.
Eligibility rules are set by Michigan. Spouses, children, parents, and the executor named in the will are commonly eligible, and you may be asked for photo ID and proof of your relationship. The state office confirms the exact rules.
This page is general information, not legal advice. Costs and rules come from the official Michigan vital records listing and can change; confirm with the office before you send payment.
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Reviewed by the Final Steps Help research team.
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