Alabama makes ordering a death certificate straightforward through the state Department of Public Health and through every county health department. This guide explains every option, the cost, and how many copies you'll need to settle the estate.
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Which Agency Handles Vital Records in Alabama?
Death certificates in Alabama are issued by the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH), Center for Health Statistics, located in Montgomery. Every county health department in Alabama can also issue certified copies.
How to Order a Death Certificate in Alabama
- Online: Order through VitalChek, the state's authorized online vendor. Processing typically takes 2–3 weeks.
- By mail: Submit a completed application form, a copy of your government-issued ID, and a check or money order payable to "State Board of Health." Mail to: Alabama Vital Records, P.O. Box 5625, Montgomery, AL 36103-5625. Allow 4–6 weeks.
- In person — Montgomery: Walk-in service is available at the Center for Health Statistics. Same-day service in many cases.
- County health department: Every Alabama county health department can issue certified copies — typically the fastest local option.
- Through the funeral home: The funeral home can order certified copies on your behalf in the days after death.
How Much Does a Death Certificate Cost in Alabama?
The fee is $15 for the first certified copy and $6 for each additional copy ordered at the same time. County health departments typically charge the same.
Pro tip
Every Alabama county has a health department that issues certified death records — you don't have to drive to Montgomery. Call your local county health department for hours and walk-in availability before traveling.
What will it cost in Alabama?
- First certified copy
- $15
- Each additional copy
- $6
- Total for 10 copies
- $69
- Typical across all states
- $137Below average
Fees come from this guide and can change. Confirm with the issuing office before paying.
How Many Copies Should You Order?
Most Alabama families need 8–12 certified copies: each bank, life insurance policy, the county Probate Court, Social Security, real estate transfers, vehicle titles, and retirement accounts.
How many copies do I need?
Check each institution you'll need to notify in Alabama.
Check the boxes above for a suggestion. 2 spares are included by default.
Omuna's free checklist tracks all of this for you.
Death certificates are just one of 40+ tasks families face after a loss. Omuna's After-Loss Checklist walks you through everything — bank accounts, insurance, subscriptions, and more.
See the full checklist →Who Is Eligible to Request a Death Certificate in Alabama?
Alabama restricts certified copies to people with a direct interest. Eligible requestors include the spouse, parent, child, sibling, grandparent, or grandchild of the deceased; the personal representative of the estate; attorneys representing the estate; legal guardians; and authorized government officials. You must provide government-issued photo ID.
What to Do After You Receive Your Death Certificates
Once you have your certified copies in hand, these are the immediate next steps:
- Notify financial institutions — bring a certified copy to each bank, brokerage, and credit union where the deceased held accounts.
- File life insurance claims — each insurer needs an original certified copy.
- Contact Social Security — report the death at (800) 772-1213 or visit your local SSA office.
- Begin probate if the estate requires it — not every estate does.
- Update property titles — real estate, vehicles, and other titled assets each need a certified copy.
- Send notifications — Omuna's free notification templates help you draft letters to banks, insurers, and government agencies.
- Create a memorial page — Omuna's memorial editor lets you build a lasting tribute your family can share.
Pro tip
Omuna's After-Loss Checklist tracks all 40+ post-loss tasks so nothing gets missed.
You're reading about death certificates in Alabama. Here's what else is on the list.
- Notify close family and friends
- Select a funeral home or provider
- Apply for death certificates (Multiple copies)this guide
- Locate the Will and legal documents
- Apply for social security survivor benefits
- Find and close bank accounts
- + 62 more tasks across all four phases
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws in Alabama may change. Consult a licensed Alabama attorney for guidance specific to your situation.