How to Get a Death Certificate in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania's vital records office is centralized in New Castle — not the state capital — which surprises many families. Knowing where to go (and how to go there quickly) can save weeks. Here's everything your family needs to get certified death certificates in Pennsylvania.

Which Agency Handles Vital Records in Pennsylvania?

Death certificates in Pennsylvania are issued by the Pennsylvania Department of Health, Division of Vital Records. The office is located in New Castle, PA (not Harrisburg). Phone: (724) 656-3100, or toll-free (844) 228-3516.

How to Order a Death Certificate in Pennsylvania

• Online: Order through mycertificates.health.pa.gov or VitalChek. Processed in 5–7 business days plus shipping; a $10 service fee applies to online orders.
• By mail: Mail a completed application form, a copy of your photo ID, and a check or money order payable to "Vital Records" to: Division of Vital Records, Death Certificate Processing Unit, P.O. Box 1528, New Castle, PA 16103. Allow 4–6 weeks.
• In person: Walk-in service is available at any of six Vital Records Branch Offices statewide, or the main New Castle office. Bring government-issued ID and payment. Same-day or next-day service is often available.
• Through the funeral home: In the immediate days after a death, the funeral home can file the death registration and order certified copies on your behalf.

How Much Does a Death Certificate Cost in Pennsylvania?

Each certified copy costs $20, and each additional copy ordered at the same time is also $20 — unlike some states, Pennsylvania does not offer a reduced rate for additional copies. Online orders add a $10 service fee.

Who Is Eligible to Request a Death Certificate in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania allows requests from: the spouse, parent, child, sibling, grandparent, or other next of kin; the executor or administrator of the estate; a licensed attorney representing the estate; government agencies with authorized need; and any person with a "legitimate purpose" (documented). You'll need a copy of your government-issued ID.

How Many Copies Should You Order?

Plan for 8–12 certified copies. Keep in mind that Pennsylvania has a unique inheritance tax (separate from estate taxes) — administered by the PA Department of Revenue. You may need an additional copy for that process, plus copies for banks, insurance, Social Security, and property transfers.

What If There's an Error on the Certificate?

File an amendment application with the Division of Vital Records. Include your supporting documentation (birth certificate, marriage license, etc.) to substantiate the correction. Medical certifier corrections (cause of death) require the certifying physician or coroner to complete and submit paperwork. Amendment processing can take 6–10 weeks.

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.