Frequently Asked Questions
How many death certificates do I need?
The number of death certificates each individual needs varies. We recommend 3 certified copies for the average person. Death certificates may be required for:
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- Life insurance policy claims
- Real estate transactions
- Transfer of vehicle or boat titles
- Cashing or transferring individual stocks or bonds
- Oil & mineral rights leases
- Closing bank accounts in the deceased’s name
- Certificates of Deposit or IRAs
- Probating the Last Will and Testament
- Purchases or loans with credit life insurance
- Closing credit card accounts
- Pre-arranged funeral merchandise contracts
- Pre-arranged cemetery service contacts
- Social Security & SSI Benefits
- Pension & retirement plans
- Claiming city, state, or federal employee death/survivor benefits
- Genealogical purposes