How to Get a Death Certificate in Delaware

Delaware keeps things simple by operating three vital records offices — Newark (New Castle County), Dover (Kent County), and Georgetown (Sussex County) — so in-person ordering is convenient no matter where in the state you are. Here's everything your family needs to know to order certified copies.

Which Agency Handles Vital Records in Delaware?

Delaware death certificates are issued by the Delaware Office of Vital Statistics, a division of the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services, with walk-in offices in Newark, Dover, and Georgetown.

How to Order a Death Certificate in Delaware

• In person — Newark, Dover, or Georgetown: Walk-in service is available at any of the three Office of Vital Statistics locations, Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–4 p.m. Same-day service is common.
• By mail: Send a completed application, a copy of your government-issued photo ID, and a check or money order payable to "Office of Vital Statistics" to: Office of Vital Statistics, Jesse S. Cooper Building, 417 Federal Street, Dover, DE 19901. Allow 4–6 weeks.
• Online: Order through VitalChek, Delaware's authorized online vendor. Processing typically takes 2–3 weeks, plus a VitalChek service fee on top of the state fee.
• Through the funeral home: The funeral home can typically order certified copies on your behalf in the days after death.

How Much Does a Death Certificate Cost in Delaware?

Delaware charges a flat $25 per certified copy, under a fee that state law (16 Del. C. § 3132) caps at $25 — there is no reduced rate for ordering additional copies at the same time. The spouse, child, or parent of a deceased veteran can receive one certified copy free of charge when the copy is needed to settle the veteran's affairs; all other copies are charged the standard fee.

Who Is Eligible to Request a Death Certificate in Delaware?

Delaware restricts certified copies to people with a direct and tangible interest in the record, which generally includes:

• The spouse, parent, child, sibling, or other close relative of the deceased
• The executor or administrator of the estate
• An attorney representing the estate
• A person who can document a legal or financial interest requiring the record

You'll need government-issued photo ID for any request.

How Many Copies Should You Order?

Plan for 8–12 certified copies. Delaware estates typically need one for the Register of Wills (where Delaware probate is filed), plus copies for each bank, life insurance policy, Social Security, real estate transfers, vehicle titles, and retirement accounts.

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.