Right after it happens
What if someone dies in another state but lived in California?
Short answer
The death certificate will be issued in the state where they died. You will need to work with that state's vital records office for the certificate, but California may still govern probate and property. Call the county where they lived for local…
What this usually means
The death certificate will be issued in the state where they died. You will need to work with that state's vital records office for the certificate, but California may still govern probate and property. Call the county where they lived for local next steps.
What to do next
- Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
- Find California county help for coroner contacts, vital records, cost tools, and paperwork.
- Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
- Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.