In West Virginia, certified death certificates are issued by West Virginia Department of Health, Health Statistics Center, Vital Registration Office. The state fee is $12 for the first certified copy and the same 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 West Virginia
| Item | State fee |
|---|---|
| First certified copy | $12 |
| Each additional copy | $12 |
'The cost of a certificate is $12 per copy. The fee includes a non-refundable search fee.' Extra searches $12 per three-year period. Mail: check or money order only. Online orders go through third-party vendors (the state links VitalChek) that charge their own fees; 'the state receives $12 per copy.'.
Who can order a certified copy
Informant listed on the death certificate; Parents/grandparents; Adult children/grandchildren; Adult siblings; Spouse; Legal representatives (with proof of legal representation).
How to order
- Online (official vendor: VitalChek)
- In person
Not addressed on the state page; the CDC page directs pre-1917 records to the Clerk of County Court.
How long it takes
State page: in person is the fastest, 'Same-day walk in service' at 350 Capitol Street, Charleston – 'Please allow at least a 15-minute wait time'. No mail or online time stated.
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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.
The state page links VitalChek for online orders but describes all online orders as handled by 'third-party vendors'. Proof of relationship may be required.
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 West Virginia
State law sets who has the right to make funeral arrangements. See who has the right to make funeral decisions in West Virginia.
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
- West Virginia Department of Health, Health Statistics Center, Vital Registration Office
- CDC: Where to Write for Vital Records (West Virginia)
- West Virginia Department of Health, Health Statistics Center, Vital Registration Office (PDF)
Checked 2026-09-24. General information, not legal advice.