Why Death Certificates Are Needed

At Moore Funeral Home, we understand that the passing of a loved one brings not only emotional pain but also practical responsibilities. One of the first and most important documents you’ll need is the death certificate—an official record that plays a key role in settling legal and financial matters.

Many families aren’t sure why a death certificate is needed or how many they should request. Here’s a helpful guide, including how the process works in Georgia, Alabama, and Tennessee—the three states we’re honored to serve—along with current costs.

What Is a Death Certificate?

A death certificate is a government-issued document that records essential details about a person's death—including the full name, date and place of death, cause of death, and other identifying information. Funeral homes like ours help complete and file the necessary paperwork on your behalf.

Why Are Death Certificates Important?

1. Legal Proof of Death: A certified death certificate is required to close financial accounts, file insurance claims, transfer property, and settle the estate.
2. Life Insurance and Benefits: Insurance companies, Social Security, pensions, and veteran benefits all require official proof of death to process claims and survivor benefits.
3. Estate and Probate Proceedings: Executors need certified copies to begin probate court filings, transfer titles, and handle other estate matters.
4. Finalizing Affairs: Utilities, credit cards, and subscriptions often require a death certificate to close accounts and avoid unnecessary charges or fraud.                           

How Many Certified Copies Do You Need?

We typically recommend 3 to 5 certified copies; however, your specific needs may vary depending on your loved one’s financial and legal situation.

You’ll need certified (not photocopied) versions for:

• Life insurance
• Bank accounts
• Property deeds and titles
• Social Security and VA benefits
• Pensions or retirement plans

State-by-State Information and Costs

Georgia:

• Filed with: Georgia Department of Public Health, Vital Records
• Processing Time: Usually 7–10 business days
• Who Can Request: Immediate family or legal representatives
• Cost:
• $25 for the first certified copy
• $5 for each additional copy ordered at the same time
• Note: Additional copies can be ordered later through the Dade County Probate Office or online through the Georgia State Office of Vital Records

Alabama:

• Filed with: Alabama Department of Public Health, Center for Health Statistics
• Processing Time: Typically 7–10 business days
• Who Can Request: Next of kin or individuals with legal interest
• Cost:
• $15 for the first certified copy
• $6 for each additional copy ordered at the same time
• Note: Requests can be made through the state, local county health departments, or online vendors.

Tennessee:

• Filed with: Tennessee Department of Health, Office of Vital Records
• Processing Time: Usually 10–14 business days
• Who Can Request: Immediate family or authorized legal agents
• Cost:
• $15 per certified copy (no discount for additional copies)
• Reminder: In Tennessee, even additional copies cost the full $15 each, so we recommend ordering enough up front to avoid multiple transactions.

How Moore Funeral Home Helps

Whether your loved one passed in Georgia, Alabama, or Tennessee, we:

• File the death certificate with the appropriate state agency
• Help you determine how many certified copies to request
• Assist in ordering additional copies if needed
• Guide you through what agencies and institutions to notify
• Notify Life Insurance Companies and submit death claim documents

Our goal is to lift the burden off your shoulders so you can focus on what matters most—honoring your loved one.

Need Help or Have Questions?

The process can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. Our caring team at Moore Funeral Home is here to guide you every step of the way.