DeBordSnyder.com Blog
May, 2017
This is one of the most common questions that we are asked at DeBord Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory. It is often followed up with statements like “Well, Mom hadn’t worked for years” or “We can just make copies, right?”
The difficulty with answering this question is that the answer varies with each individual. First of all, Death certificates say very clearly on the top
WARNING: It is illegal to duplicate this copy by Photostat or Photograph.
So, when making your funeral plans, either for yourself or a loved one, keep a few things in mind:
If the individual received any government benefits like Social Security or Veterans Benefits, you will probably need a copy for each government agency.
Also, if the individual had bank accounts with different banks or safety deposit boxes, each bank will most likely require a certified death certificate. With that in mind, any bonds, treasury bills and retirement accounts will also need a death certificate in order to be closed.
Certified death certificates are required to alter title of ownership for real estate and all registered motor vehicles.
Insurance accounts (home, auto, life, etc) will also require death certificates in order to process claims or change accounts into another name.
You will want to have additional death certificates available for your attorney, credit card companies (if they are self insured) and the post office to set up mail forwarding to the next of kin.
Be sure to keep a death certificate to submit to the IRS and to the state with the individual’s final tax return.
Finally, you may want to keep a few death certificates for any additional or unexpected needs that may arise.
One last note, for 90 days after the date of death, DeBord Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory is able to obtain additional copies for you from the local registrar for $6 each. After 90 days, additional copies can only be ordered through Vital Records which charge $9 per copy.
https://www.vitalchek.com/vital-records/pennsylvania/pennsylvania-vital-records.
As you can see, there is no “one size fits all” answer to this question. Each individual has their own requirements. Our caring staff at DeBord Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory is here to help you answer this question and any others that you may have.
When searching for a trusted, community-based funeral home in Lancaster PA, you can rely on DeBord Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory. Contact us today. (717) 394-4097.
Lily Johnson
The death certificate is crucial to close the deceased one’s estate and affairs and update their status with the government and financial institutions. Unfortunately, the close relatives and spouses of decadents often have a great deal of legal responsibility to register the death of their loved one. And yes, thanks for sharing a piece of helpful information!
Fatimatu lbrahim
My father died so many years ago and I need death certificate, he die in the house. How can I get death certificate
Ms. Judy A. Williams
Your info was not only useful to me and others; I know but also very, very helpful with straight answers and facts .
Very easy to understand, “PLAIN TALK.”
Thank you so kindly.
Ms. Williams