How to Get a Death Certificate in Georgia

Georgia has 159 counties — more than any state except Texas — which means death certificate requests and estate administration can touch multiple county-level offices. Here's how to navigate Georgia's vital records process efficiently.

Which Agency Handles Vital Records in Georgia?

Georgia death certificates are issued by the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH), Office of Vital Records. County health departments across all 159 Georgia counties can also issue certified copies for deaths that occurred in their county — often faster than going through the state office.

How to Order a Death Certificate in Georgia

• In person at a county health department: Visit the county health department where the death occurred. Many offer same-day or next-day service — usually the fastest option.
• Online: Order through Georgia's ROVER online portal or VitalChek. Processing runs 5–7 business days plus shipping, plus an $8 nonrefundable online processing fee (expedited FedEx shipping adds $16).
• By mail: Mail a completed application, a copy of your government-issued ID, and payment (personal checks are not accepted — use a certified check, money order, or card) to: Georgia Office of Vital Records, 200 Piedmont Avenue SE, Atlanta, GA 30334. Allow 8–10 weeks.
• Through the funeral home: In the days after death, the funeral home can typically order certified copies during the death registration process.

How Much Does a Death Certificate Cost in Georgia?

The Georgia DPH charges $25 for the first certified copy and $5 for each additional copy ordered at the same time. County health departments may charge similar fees, though exact amounts can vary slightly by county.

Who Is Eligible to Request a Death Certificate in Georgia?

Georgia allows:

• The surviving spouse, parent, child, sibling, or grandparent
• The executor or administrator of the estate
• A licensed attorney representing the estate
• Law enforcement agencies
• Any person with a documented legitimate interest

You'll need a copy of your government-issued ID and a statement of your relationship to the deceased.

How Many Copies Should You Order?

Plan for 8–12 certified copies. If your loved one owned real estate in more than one Georgia county, remember that property transfers in each county require a separate original — Georgia's 159-county system can mean more paperwork than in states with fewer jurisdictions.

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.