Where Can I Look Up a Death Record for Free?

Death records can often be traced through cemeteries.

Death records can usually be found for free. Each state has these records available for the asking. If you want a copy of the death certificate however, there is usually a fee which will vary by state. Free genealogy sites will have some information, but most end up linked to sites with fees.

Social Security Death Index

The Social Security Death Index, or SSDI, contains the records for over 74 million deaths that have been reported to the Social Security Administration. While this won't include everyone who has died in the United States, many records can be found online here.

Newspapers and Obituaries

There are several free searches online for mentions in newspapers and obituaries. If you have a little information, like names or locations, you can often find something listed somewhere.

Cemetery Records

While not every cemetery has its records online, many do. Some can be searched online or will send you information if you contact them. If you are doing genealogy research, this is a good way to find ancestors.

References

• Your Family Tree: Free Death Records
• Social Security Death Index: Family History

Resources

• USA Search
• Social Security Death Index: Family History