How to obtain a death certificate in Pennsylvania

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 Pennsylvania, you may order their death certificate online, by phone, or by mail. Details for obtaining a death certificate in these different ways are below:

  1. Online

    To order a death certificate online, visit VitalChek, Pennsylvania’s authorized service provider, and follow the prompts. Payment by credit card will be required. 

  2. By Phone

    To order a death certificate by phone, call VitalChek, Pennsylvania’s authorized service provider, at (866) 712-8238, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Payment by credit card will be required. 

  3. By Mail

    To order a death certificate by mail, fill out an application and mail it to the address below. Remember to include a payment and copy of photo ID as specified on the application.

    Division of Vital Records

    Death Certificate Processing Unit

    PO Box 1528

    New Castle, PA 16103