FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

DEATHS
  

 

 

  1. What death records can I access at the Rockingham County Register of Deeds office?

  2. How do I obtain a certified copy of my relative's death certificate?

  3. Who may obtain a certified copy of a death certificate?

  4. What is the cost of a Death Certificate?

  5. What are the acceptable forms of identification?

  6. Can I get a death certificate if the death occurred outside of Rockingham County?

  7. My loved one has passed away. How do I file the Will and obtain a Letter of Testamentary?

1. What death records can I access at the Rockingham County Register of Deeds office?

Death records from 1913 for those deaths that occurred in Rockingham County.

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2. How do I obtain a certified copy of my relative's death certificate?

To obtain a certified death certificate (one with a raised seal):

  • You must be an eligible party
  • Complete form: Application for Certified Copy of Vital Record
  • Present a valid photo ID
  • Agents or legal representatives must furnish documentation of authority and identification
  • Cost is $10 for each certified copy
  • For mail requests, enclose a stamped, self-addressed envelope

 We strive to process the request within 24 hours of receipt.

NC Vital Records maintains births, adoptions, deaths and marriage records for the State of North Carolina. For more information, visit their website at http://vitalrecords.dhhs.state.nc.us or call NC Vital Records at 919.733.3526.

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3. Who may obtain a certified copy of a death certificate?

Pursuant to NCGS 130A-93(c):

North Carolina law allows the issuance of a certified death certificate ONLY to:

  • The applicant's spouse

  • The applicant's children

  • The applicant's parents

  • The applicant's brother/sister

  • The applicant's stepchildren/stepparents

  • The applicant's grandchildren/grandparents

  • Anyone seeking information for legal determination of personal or property rights

  • An authorized agent, attorney, or legal representative of the applicant. Proof required.

GS 130A-93(b)(c1) provides that certified copies of death certificates may be obtained by funeral directors and licensed funeral services.

 

Proper picture identification and fee must be presented.

 

Complete the form "Application for Certified Copy of Vital Record".

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4. What is the cost of a Death Certificate?

$10 per certified copy.

An uncertified copy of a death certificate is .25 per copy in person. If the request is by mail, add an additional $1 for processing and enclose a stamped, self-addressed envelope for faster return.

We accept checks and money orders by mail, made payable to the Rockingham County Register of Deeds. Cash may be used when a request is made in person - please do not send cash in the mail.

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5. What are the acceptable forms of identification?

One valid government-issued identification with a photograph, such as:

  • State Driver's License

  • State Issued Identification Card

  • U.S. Passport

  • Military Identification Card

Agents, attorneys, or legal representatives must also furnish documentation of authority in order to receive a certified certificate on an individual.

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6. Can I get a death certificate if the death occurred outside of Rockingham County?

This office only registers those deaths that occur within Rockingham County. You will need to check with the county where the death occurred. If you know the death occurred in North Carolina, but you do not know the county, you may contact the NC Department of Health & Human Services at 919.733.3526 or http://vitalrecords.dhhs.state.nc.us/vr/index.html for more information.

 

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7. My loved one has passed away. How do I file the Will and obtain a Letter of Testamentary?

Contact the Estates Division of the Clerk of Court at 336.342.8700 or visit them on the first floor of the Rockingham County Courthouse in Wentworth, North Carolina.

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See section on "Deaths" for more information.

 

©2008 Rockingham County Register of Deeds