Besides the financial ramifications of a person’s death, dealing with all the administrative details and paperwork can be very stressful for the family members of the deceased.
Registration of Death Form
This is usually filled out at the funeral home when the funeral arrangements are being made. It is a permanent legal record of the death. It is the responsibility of the spouse, next of kin or person who has full knowledge of the facts surrounding the person who has passed away to complete a Registration of Death Form.
Medical Certificate of Death
This will have been completed by an attending physician or medical examiner. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will sometimes become involved in the case of an unexplained or sudden death. You can order a photocopy of the Medical Certificate of Death from Vital Statistics if required.
Certificate of Death
Vital Statistics uses the information on the Registration of Death Form to create an official Certificate of Death. The executor/personal representative or other eligible person should order a Certificate of Death. Many organizations will require this document before decisions can be made on behalf of the deceased. Until you receive the Certificate of Death, the funeral director will issue a Statement of Death that you can use.
Federal Government Programs
Contact our office if you need any assistance in dealing with the financial paperwork related to the death of a loved one.
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