Who Can Obtain a Death Certificate Copy
Pursuant to California Health and Safety Code Section 103526 only specific individuals are allowed to receive an authorized certified copy of a death record.
An authorized certified copy of a death record may be required to obtain death benefits, claim insurance proceeds, notify social security and obtain other services related to an individual's identity.
Individuals Permitted to Receive an Authorized Certified Copy
- A parent or legal guardian of the registrant
- A member of a law enforcement agency or a representative of another governmental agency, as provided by law, who is conducting official business
- A child, grandparent, grandchild, sibling, spouse or domestic partner of the registrant
- An attorney representing the registrant or the registrant’s estate, or any person or agency empowered by statute or appointed by a court to act on behalf of the registrant or the registrant estate
- Any funeral director or agent/employee of a funeral establishment acting within the scope of their employment who orders certified copies of a death on behalf of any individual specified in paragraphs (1) to (5), inclusive of subdivision (a) of Section 7100 of the Health and Safety Code
- Any individual specified in paragraphs (1) to (8) inclusive of subdivision (a) of Health & Safety Code 7100
Informational Certified Copies
Those who are not authorized or do not wish to submit the notarized Certificate of Identity may receive an Informational Certified Copy.
Informational Certified Copies have the words "INFORMATIONAL, NOT A VALID DOCUMENT TO ESTABLISH IDENTITY," imprinted across the face of the copy.
Death Record Request Options