How to Obtain a Death Certificate in the City of Boston

To obtain a death certificate in Boston, Massachusetts, you must go through City Hall. You may either visit the Registry Division at City Hall, located in Governement Center, or send a written letter requesting the document.

Instructions

1. Visit the Registry Division of City Hall and fill out the Application for Death Certificate form. You will receive the document that day.

2. Download the Death Certificate request form, which is in PDF format, from the City Hall website. You must complete the form in its entirety and mail it to the address given to ensure an accurate and speedy process.

3. Write a letter of request to the Registry Division that includes the name of the person whose death certificate you are requesting, the date and location of death, and your relationship to this person. You must sign the letter and include your mailing address, or your request may be rejected.

Tips & Warnings

• A fee is required to acquire a death certificate. When mailing your request form or letter, make sure to include a personal check or money order for the correct fee made out to the "City of Boston." As of September 2009, the fee is $15, and your request may take up to four weeks to be fulfilled. If obtaining the certificate in person at City Hall, the fee is $12. There is a $10 research charge for death certificates dated before 1870.

• Phone requests are not accepted.

References

• Death Certificate - City of Boston