How to obtain a death certificate in Illinois
After a loved one passes away, obtaining a death certificate is one of the most important steps that needs to be taken. This document is crucial for arranging the funeral, carrying out organ donation, executing the will, and other such actions.
The process of obtaining a death certificate varies from state to state and even from county to county. To make the process easier, we have compiled the information you need to obtain a death certificate based on your location.
If your loved one passed away in Illinois, you may order their death certificate online, through fax, in person, or by mail. Details for obtaining a death certificate in these different ways are below:
Online
Request a death certificate online by visiting VitalChek which is an independent third-party entity. There are fees charged by VitalCheck up to $40 depending on the form and speed you wish to receive your certificate in.
Through Fax
Send this application to the following fax number: (217) 523-2648. The application includes information on fees for the certificate, which are generally about $25.
In person
Visit the below address Monday - Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Make sure to bring a form of acceptable identification (outlined on the second page of this document) and a payment method (cash, personal check, money order, debit/credit card except Visa credit card):
Illinois Department of Public Health
Division of Vital Records
925 E, Ridgely Avenue
Springfield, Illinois 62702-2737
By Mail
Request a death certificate by mailing a completed application, including acceptable identification and a payment (check or money order payable to Illinois Department of Public Health), to the following address: