Death certificates
How do I get a death certificate?
Short answer
The funeral home files the death certificate with the county. Once it is registered, you can order certified copies from the county vital records office or recorder. Most families need 8–12 certified copies. Ask the funeral home how many to order before…
What this usually means
The funeral home files the death certificate with the county. Once it is registered, you can order certified copies from the county vital records office or recorder. Most families need 8–12 certified copies. Ask the funeral home how many to order before they file.
What to do next
- Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
- Find California county phone numbers for coroner, vital records, and local offices.
- Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
- Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.