Final Steps Help

New York · 62 counties

When someone dies in New York

Two things matter first: getting certified death certificates, and, if money is short, reaching the burial assistance program in the county where the death happened. Pick your county below for exact contacts.

The paperwork

Death certificates in New York

Order certified copies from the New York vital records office. The CDC keeps the official directory of every state office: find the New York vital records office. The funeral home can also order copies for you. Most families need about 10.

Planning ahead

Nobody has died yet? Set up a power of attorney

If someone you love is aging or ill, the cheapest protection your family can get is a power of attorney, and it must happen while they can still sign. We cover New York's exact rules and official forms.

New York power of attorney rules

Pick your county

New York counties (62)