In Michigan, certified death certificates are issued by Division for Vital Records and Health Statistics, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. The state fee is $34 for the first certified copy and $16 for each additional copy.
Here is who can order a certified copy, how to order it, and how long it takes, taken from the office’s own pages. Fees and times change, so check the office’s page before you pay.
How much a death certificate costs in Michigan
| Item | State fee |
|---|---|
| First certified copy | $34 |
| Each additional copy | $16 |
$34 base fee includes a one-year search and one certified copy; $16 each additional copy; $12 per extra year searched if the year is unknown; $12 optional rush processing. VitalChek adds an online processing fee.
Who can order a certified copy
Anyone. Per the MDHHS application, "Death records are not restricted documents in Michigan.".
How to order
- Online (official vendor: VitalChek)
- In person
Not addressed on the MDHHS pages read. CDC notes Detroit records moved to Wayne County effective 12/13/13 and are available from the state or Wayne County.
How long it takes
MDHHS order page (current): regular "10 – 12 Weeks", expedited "8 – 10 Weeks"; VitalChek Will Call 2-5 business days. The application form still states 4 to 6 weeks (rush 2 to 3 weeks), so the web page figures are more current.
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The funeral home’s role
The office’s pages do not describe the funeral home’s role. Many families ask the funeral director to order the first copies when arrangements are made.
Records back to 1867, though some pre-1897 deaths were never filed with the state. In-person service is by appointment on Tuesdays and Thursdays; there is also a lobby drop box. Photo ID is not required for death record copies.
How many copies to order
Most banks, insurers, pension plans and government agencies each want their own certified copy. Count the accounts and policies before you order, because ordering more later means another application and fee. How many death certificates you need has a worksheet.
Who decides the funeral in Michigan
State law sets who has the right to make funeral arrangements. See who has the right to make funeral decisions in Michigan.
Related guides
- What to do when someone dies: the first 24 hours
- Who to call when someone dies, and in what order
- How much a funeral costs, line by line
- Help paying for a funeral: Social Security, VA and FEMA
- Official funeral resources for every state
Sources
- Division for Vital Records and Health Statistics, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services
- CDC: Where to Write for Vital Records (Michigan)
- Division for Vital Records and Health Statistics, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (PDF)
Checked 2026-09-24. General information, not legal advice.