How to Get a Death Certificate in Connecticut

Connecticut runs one of the more decentralized death certificate systems in the country: every one of the state's 169 town clerks can issue certified copies of any Connecticut death record, not just deaths that happened in their own town. That usually makes the town clerk's office your fastest option. Here's how the full process works.

Which Agency Handles Vital Records in Connecticut?

Connecticut death certificates are issued by the Connecticut Department of Public Health, Vital Records Office, based in Hartford. Uniquely, any town clerk in Connecticut can also issue certified copies of any Connecticut death record — you are not limited to the clerk in the town where the death occurred.

How to Order a Death Certificate in Connecticut

• In person — town clerk: Any town clerk in the state can issue a certified copy of any Connecticut death record. Same-day service is common. This is typically the fastest option.
• In person — state office: Walk-in service is available at the State Vital Records Office in Hartford.
• Online: Order through VitalChek, the state's authorized vendor. Processing runs roughly 2–3 weeks plus shipping, and VitalChek adds its own service fee on top of the state fee.
• By mail: Send a completed application, a copy of your government-issued photo ID, and a check or money order payable to "Treasurer, State of Connecticut" to: State Vital Records Office, 410 Capitol Avenue MS#11VRS, P.O. Box 340308, Hartford, CT 06134. Allow 4–6 weeks.
• Through the funeral home: The funeral home can typically order certified copies on your behalf shortly after death.

How Much Does a Death Certificate Cost in Connecticut?

Connecticut charges a flat $20 per certified copy, whether ordered from the state office or a town clerk — there is no discount for ordering multiple copies at once. Online orders through VitalChek carry an additional processing fee on top of the $20 state fee. The spouse, child, or parent of a deceased veteran can request one free certified copy by presenting ID and proof of relationship.

Who Is Eligible to Request a Death Certificate in Connecticut?

Connecticut restricts certified long-form copies (which include cause of death) to:

• The spouse, parent, child, sibling, grandparent, or grandchild of the deceased
• The executor or administrator of the estate
• An attorney representing the estate
• A legal guardian
• Authorized government officials

You'll need government-issued photo ID and must state your relationship to the deceased.

How Many Copies Should You Order?

Plan for 8–14 certified copies. Because Connecticut requires an estate tax return to be filed for every probate estate — even ones owing no tax — Connecticut families typically need more copies than families in states without that requirement. Budget one copy each for the Probate Court, banks, life insurance carriers, Social Security, real estate transfers, vehicle titles, and retirement accounts, then add a few extra.

What to Do After You Receive Your Death Certificates

Once you have your certified copies in hand, these are the immediate next steps:

1. Notify financial institutions — bring a certified copy to each bank, brokerage, and credit union where the deceased held accounts.
2. File life insurance claims — each insurer needs an original certified copy.
3. Contact Social Security — report the death at (800) 772-1213 or visit your local SSA office.
4. Begin probate if the estate requires it — not every estate does.
5. Update property titles — real estate, vehicles, and other titled assets each need a certified copy.
6. Send notifications — Omuna's free notification templates help you draft letters to banks, insurers, and government agencies.
7. Create a memorial page — Omuna's memorial editor lets you build a lasting tribute your family can share.