How to Find Pennsylvania Death Records: Difference between revisions

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{{breadcrumb
''[[How to Find United States Death Records|How to Find United States Deaths]] [[Image:Gotoarrow.png]]'' '''Pennsylvania Deaths'''<br> __NOTOC__  
| link1=[[United States Genealogy|United States]]
| link2=[[United States Vital Records|U.S. Vital Records]]
| link3=[[How to Find United States Death Records|How to Find United States Deaths]]
| link4=[[Pennsylvania Vital Records|Pennsylvania Vital Records]]
| link5=[[How to Find Pennsylvania Death Records|Pennsylvania Deaths]]
}}
__NOTOC__  


Statewide registration for Pennsylvania deaths began in 1906. Prior to the state keeping death records counties kept death records beginning in 1893.  
Statewide registration for Pennsylvania deaths began in 1906. Prior to the state keeping death records counties kept death records beginning in 1893.  
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== '''Next Step:<br>When did the death occur?'''  ==
== '''Next Step: When did the death occur? '''  ==


| width="55%" bgcolor="#dcdcdc" style="width: 300px" |  
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:<span style="font-size: 120%">'''Death Records'''</span>  
:<span style="font-size:120%">'''Death Records'''</span>  
:<span style="font-size: 120%">Choose a time period:</span><br>
:<span style="font-size:120%">Choose a time period:</span><br>


:*<span style="font-size: 120%">'''[[How to Find Pennsylvania Death Records#Deaths_before_1852|Before 1852]]'''</span>  
:*<span style="font-size:120%">'''[[How to Find Pennsylvania Death Records#Deaths_before_1852|Deaths before 1852]]'''</span>  
:*<span style="font-size: 120%">'''[[How to Find Pennsylvania Death Records#Deaths_1852-1854|1852-1854]]'''</span>  
:*<span style="font-size:120%">'''[[How to Find Pennsylvania Death Records#Deaths_1852-1855|Deaths 1852-1855]]'''</span>  
:*<span style="font-size: 120%">'''[[How to Find Pennsylvania Death Records#Deaths_1855-1892|1855-1892]]'''</span>  
:*<span style="font-size:120%">'''[[How to Find Pennsylvania Death Records#Deaths_1856-1892|Deaths 1856-1892]]'''</span>  
:*<span style="font-size: 120%">'''[[How to Find Pennsylvania Death Records#Deaths_1893-1905|1893-1905]]'''</span>  
:*<span style="font-size:120%">'''[[How to Find Pennsylvania Death Records#Deaths_1893-1905|Deaths 1893-1905]]'''</span>  
:*<span style="font-size: 120%">'''[[How to Find Pennsylvania Death Records#Deaths_1906-1966|1906-1973]]'''</span>  
:*<span style="font-size:120%">'''[[How to Find Pennsylvania Death Records#Deaths_1906-1962|Deaths 1906-1962]]'''</span>  
:*<span style="font-size: 120%">'''[[How to Find Pennsylvania Death Records#Deaths_1964-Present|1964-Present]]'''</span>  
:*<span style="font-size:120%">'''[[How to Find Pennsylvania Death Records#Deaths_1963-Present|Deaths 1963-Present]]'''</span>  
:*<span style="font-size: 120%">'''[[How to Estimate United States Death Information|Death year unknown]]'''</span>
:*<span style="font-size:120%">'''[[How to Estimate United States Death Information|Death year unknown]]'''</span>


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== '''Deaths before 1853'''  ==
 
West Virginia did not exist at this time and was known as the state of Virginia.'''Before 1853, no deaths were recorded by the county or state'''. You must search [[Substitute Records For United States Death Information|substitute records]] to locate your ancestor’s death date and place.
 
{| width="70%" border="1" style="margin: 1em auto;"
|-
| align="center" colspan="3" | &nbsp; '''Records that give death information:'''
|-
| width="35%" |
:[[West Virginia Cemeteries|Cemetery Records]]
:[[West Virginia Newspapers|Newspapers]]
:[[West Virginia Probate Records|Probate (wills, etc)]]
:[[West Virginia Taxation|Tax Records]]
 
| width="35%" |
:[[West Virginia Church Records|Church Records]]
:[[West Virginia Census|Census]]
:[[West Virginia Bible Records|Bible Records]]
 
|}
<center>[[How to Find West Virginia Death Records#Next_Step:_When_did_the_death_occur.3F|Return to top: Choose another death year]]</center>
<br>
 
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== '''Deaths from 1853 thru 1916'''  ==
 
:*1853 - Virginia law required counties to record deaths, although records are incomplete
:*1863 - West Virginia was created from the state of Virginia
:*1917 - West Virginia Statewide death registration began
 
If you cannot locate your ancestor in the databases below try searching for death information in [[Substitute Records For United States Death Information|other records]]. <br>
 
For deaths that exist during the time period, try the following databases. Try each link.
 
{| width="100%" cellspacing="1" cellpadding="6" border="0"
|-
| align="left" colspan="3" | '''West Virginia Deaths Databases - Includes Index and Digital Images'''
| <br>
| <br>
|-
| align="left" colspan="2" | ''Try 1st:''
| <br>
| <br>
|-
| <br>
| width="25%" | [http://www.wvculture.org/vrr/va_select.aspx 1853-1970 - At West Virginia Division of Culture and History]
| width="65%" | '''Free;''' dates vary by county and some only go to 1962; [http://www.wvculture.org/vrr/va_dcsearch.aspx list of database county coverage (right side of the screen)on WV website]
|-
| align="left" colspan="2" | ''Try 2nd:''
| <br>
| <br>
|-
| <br>
| {{RecordSearch|1417434|1853-1970 - At FamilySearch.org}}
| '''Free;''' dates vary by county and some only go to 1962; [http://www.wvculture.org/vrr/va_dcsearch.aspx list of database county coverage (right side of the screen)on WV website]; click on "view partner website" to see a copy of the image
|-
| align="left" colspan="2" | '''Can't find your ancestor in the online index?'''
| [[Tips for Searching an Online Index|Tips for searching online indexes]]
| <br>
|-
| align="left" colspan="2" | '''No death record for your ancestor?'''
| [[Substitute Records For United States Death Information|Other records with death information]]
|}
<center>[[How to Find West Virginia Death Records#Next_Step:_When_did_the_death_occur.3F|Return to top: Choose another death year]]</center>
<br>
 
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== '''Deaths from 1917 thru 1970'''  ==
 
The state of West Virginia began recording deaths in January 1917.
 
==== '''STEP ONE: Find Death Information'''  ====
 
For deaths that exist during this time period, try the following databases. Try each link.
 
{| width="100%" cellspacing="1" cellpadding="6" border="0"
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| align="left" colspan="3" | ''' Indexes and Digital Images'''  
| align="left" colspan="3" | '''West Virginia Deaths Databases - Includes Index and Digital Images'''  
|  
|  
|  
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|-
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| width="10%" | ''Try:''  
| ''Try 1st:''  
|  
|  
|  
|  
|-
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| width="25%" | [http://www.wvculture.org/vrr/va_select.aspx 1853-1970 - At West Virginia Division of Culture and History]
| width="65%" | '''Free;''' dates vary by county and some only go to 1962; [http://www.wvculture.org/vrr/va_dcsearch.aspx list of database county coverage (right side of the screen) on WV website]
|-
|-
| ''Try 2nd:''
|  
|  
| [http://search.ancestry.com/search/db.aspx?dbid=2487 1852-1854, Pennsylvania, Deaths at Ancestry.com]
|  
|  
|-
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|  
| width="65%" | '''($),  [http://search.ancestry.com/search/db.aspx?dbid=2487 Free at FamilySearch centers.]'''
| {{RecordSearch|1417434|1853-1970 - At FamilySearch.org}}
| '''Free;''' dates vary by county and some only go to 1962; [http://www.wvculture.org/vrr/va_dcsearch.aspx list of database county coverage (right side of the screen) on WV website]; click on "view partner website" to see a copy of the image
|-
| ''Next try:''  
|  
|  
|  
|  
|-
| align="left" colspan="3" | '''Ancestry Database: Includes Index Only'''
| <br>
| <br>
|-
| align="left" colspan="2" | ''Choose one of the following:''
|  
|  
|  
|  
|-
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| width="10%" | <br>
|  
| [http://search.ancestryinstitution.com/search/db.aspx?dbid=2568 1853-1973 - use Ancestry Institution at FamilySearch Centers/Libraries]
|  
| '''Free at FamilySearch Centers and Libraries;''' [https://www.familysearch.org/locations Find your local FamilySearch Center]
|  
|-
|-
|  
|  
| [https://www.familysearch.org/search/collection/1999196 1683-1994, Pennsylvania, Probate Records at FamilySearch.org]<br>
|  
|  
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| width="65%" | '''Free at FamilySearch Centers and Libraries;''' [https://www.familysearch.org/centers/locations/ Find your local FamilySearch Center] This is an incomplete database which includes county records as well as church records. Below are the counties included in the collection.
|  
|  
|-
|-
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| width="10%" | <br>
|{{RecordSearch|3535178|1720-1999, Pennsylvania Deaths and Burials}}, index.
| [http://search.ancestry.com/search/db.aspx?dbid=2568 1853-1973 - use your Ancestry subscription]
|
| '''$,''' [http://www.ancestry.com/cs/offers/freetrial?o_iid=48816&o_lid=48816&o_sch=Web+Property To obtain a subscription to Ancestry]; Ancestry is often available for free through your local public library
|
| At FamilySearch Historical Records, free.
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| align="left" colspan="2" | '''Can't find your ancestor in the index?'''
|  
|  
|  
| width="25%" | ''Can't access Ancestry?''
| [[Tips for Searching an Online Index|Tips for searching indexes]]  
| Go to Step Two Part B listed below. You may be able to order the death record for your ancestor from the [http://www.wvdhhr.org/bph/hsc/vital/birthcert.asp West Virginia Department of Health State Office].
|-
| align="left" colspan="2" | '''Can't find your ancestor in the online index?'''
| [[Tips for Searching an Online Index|Tips for searching online indexes]]  
|  
|  
|-
|-
| align="left" colspan="2" | '''No death record for your ancestor?'''  
| align="left" colspan="2" | '''No death record for your ancestor?'''  
|
| [[Substitute Records For United States Death Information|Other records with death information]]
|
| [[Substitute Records For United States Death Information|Other records with death information]]  
|
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<center>[[How to Find Pennsylvania Death Records#Next_Step:When_did_the_death_occur.3F|Return to top: Choose another death year]]</center>
<br>


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==== '''STEP TWO: Obtain the Certificate'''  ====
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== '''Deaths before 1852''' ==
'''PART A: You know the exact date of death '''  


Pennsylvania did not record deaths on a state level until 1906. Prior to 1906 some attempts were made to record deaths but these were usually done on the county level and not until about 1893. To determine a date of death for an individual church and cemetery records are the primary records to search. There are also [[Substitute Records For United States Death Information|substitute records]] which can be searched when there is an absence of death records.
If the image was not included in the index entry above, you can order a copy of the death record for a fee from the following locations:


{| width="70%" border="1" style="margin: 1em auto"
{| width="100%" cellspacing="1" cellpadding="6" border="1"
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| align="center" colspan="4" | '''To Order Death Certificates'''
|-
|-
| align="center" colspan="3" |   '''Records that give death information:'''
| width="50%" align="center" colspan="2" | [http://vitalrec.com/wv.html#County From County of Death]
| width="50%" align="center" colspan="2" | [http://www.wvdhhr.org/bph/hsc/vital/birthcert.asp From WV Dept. of Health State office]
|-
|-
| width="35%" |  
| width="25%" align="center" | '''Pros'''
:[[Pennsylvania Bible Records|Bible Records]]
| width="25%" align="center" | '''Cons'''
:[[Pennsylvania Cemeteries|Cemetery Records]]
| width="25%" align="center" | '''Pros'''
:[[Pennsylvania Church Records|Church Records]]
| width="25%" align="center" | '''Cons'''
 
| width="35%" |
:[[Pennsylvania Newspapers|Newspapers]]
:[[Pennsylvania Probate Records|Probate (wills, etc)]]
:[[Pennsylvania Taxation|Tax Records]]
 
|}
<center>[[How to Find Pennsylvania Death Records#Next_Step:When_did_the_death_occur.3F|Return to top: Choose another death year]]</center>
<br>
 
{| width="99%" border="0" align="center" class="FCK__ShowTableBorders"
|-
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| May be less expensive and faster than ordering from the state
| County websites can be more difficult to use
| Offers a search of the state index for an additional fee
| May be more expensive than ordering from the county
|}
|}


== '''Deaths 1852-1854'''  ==
See [[How to Find West Virginia Death Records#Restrictions_for_Obtaining_Death_Records|list of restrictions]] for ordering death records


'''1852-1854''' - grouped by county and record type, then arranged by certificate number, these records of death were kept by the Register of Wills for each county with returns sent to the Department of State. These returns are available for 49 of the 64 counties existing at that time; however, they are not complete for each county. Digital images of the records along with a search capability are available at [http://search.ancestry.com/search/db.aspx?dbid=2487 www.ancestry.com]. Film copies of the death records can also be found at the FamilySearch Library in Salt Lake City, Utah.  
If you do not want to order the death record, you can search [[Substitute Records For United States Death Information|other records with death information]].  


{| width="99%" class="FCK__ShowTableBorders"
'''PART B: You don't know the exact date of death'''
|-
| valign="top" |
*[[Adams County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Adams]] 
*[[Allegheny County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Allegheny]] 
*[[Armstrong County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Armstrong]] 
*[[Beaver County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Beaver]] 
*[[Bedford County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Bedford]] 
*[[Berks County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Berks]] 
*[[Bradford County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Bradford]]
*[[Butler County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Butler]]
*[[Cambria County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Cambria]]
*[[Carbon County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Carbon]]


| valign="top" |
If you do not know the exact date or place of death:<br> For a fee, the [http://www.wvdhhr.org/bph/hsc/vital/birthcert.asp West Virginia Department of Health office] will do a 3 year search (click on the death certificates tab).<br>  
*[[Centre County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Centre]]
*[[Chester County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Chester]]
*[[Clearfield County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Clearfield]]
*[[Cumberland County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Cumberland]] 
*[[Columbia County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Columbia]]
*[[Dauphin County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Dauphin]] 
*[[Delaware County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Delaware]] 
*[[Elk County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Elk]] 
*[[Franklin County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Franklin]]
*[[Greene County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Greene]]
 
| valign="top" |
*[[Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Huntingdon]]
*[[Indiana County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Indiana]]
*[[Juniata County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Juniata]]
*[[Lancaster County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Lancaster]]
*[[Lawrence County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Lawrence]]
*[[Lehigh County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Lehigh]] 
*[[Luzerne County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Luzerne]]
*[[Lycoming County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Lycoming]] 
*[[McKean County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|McKean]] 
*[[Mercer County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Mercer]]
 
| valign="top" |
*[[Mifflin County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Mifflin]] 
*[[Monroe County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Monroe]]
*[[Montgomery County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Montgomery]]
*[[Montour County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Montour]]
*[[Northampton County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Northampton]]
*[[Northumberland County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Northumberland]]
*[[Perry County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Perry]]
*[[Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Schuylkill]]
*[[Somerset County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Somerset]]
*[[Susquehanna County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Susquehanna]]
 
| valign="top" |
*[[Tioga County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Tioga]]
*[[Union County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Union]]
*[[Venango County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Venango]]
*[[Warren County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Warren]]
*[[Washington County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Washington]]
*[[Wayne County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Wayne]]
*[[Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|Westmoreland]]
*[[York County, Pennsylvania#Vital_Records|York]]
 
|}
 
If you cannot locate your ancestor in the databases below try searching for death information in [[Substitute Records For United States Death Information|other records]]. <br>
 
== '''Deaths 1855-1892'''  ==
*'''1850-1880:''' {{RecordSearch|3512181|Pennsylvania Mortality Schedules, 1850-1880}} at FamilySearch - [[Pennsylvania Mortality Schedules- FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]
*'''1856-1971:''' {{RecordSearch|4138690|Pennsylvania, Historical Society of Pennsylvania, Deaths and Burials, 1856-1971}} at FamilySearch - [[Pennsylvania, Historical Society of Pennsylvania, Deaths and Burials - Familysearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index & images <br><br>
Prior to 1852 the state of Pennsylvania did not record statewide deaths. Search church, cemetery and probate records in the area where the individual died to determine the death date for an individual. You must search [[Substitute Records For United States Death Information|substitute records]] to locate your ancestor’s death date and place.
 
{| width="70%" border="1" style="margin: 1em auto"
|-
| align="center" colspan="3" |  '''Records that give death information:'''
|-
| width="35%" |
:[[Pennsylvania Bible Records|Bible Records]]
:[[Pennsylvania Cemeteries|Cemetery Records]]
:[[Pennsylvania Church Records|Church Records]]


| width="35%" |
See [[How to Find West Virginia Death Records#Restrictions_for_Obtaining_Death_Records|list of restrictions]] for ordering death records
:[[Pennsylvania Newspapers|Newspapers]]
:[[Pennsylvania Probate Records|Probate (wills, etc)]]
:[[Pennsylvania Taxation|Tax Records]]


|}
<br> If you do not want to order the death record, you can search [[Substitute Records For United States Death Information|other records with death information]].
<center>[[How to Find Pennsylvania Death Records#Next_Step:When_did_the_death_occur.3F|Return to top: Choose another death year]]</center>  
<center>[[How to Find West Virginia Death Records#Next_Step:_When_did_the_death_occur.3F|Return to top: Choose another death year]]</center>  
<br>  
<br>  


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== '''Deaths 1893-1905'''  ==
== '''Deaths after 1970'''  ==
*'''1856-1971:''' {{RecordSearch|4138690|Pennsylvania, Historical Society of Pennsylvania, Deaths and Burials, 1856-1971}} at FamilySearch - [[Pennsylvania, Historical Society of Pennsylvania, Deaths and Burials - Familysearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index & images<br><br>
'''1893-1905''' - Deaths were recorded by the Clerk of Orphans Court at each county courthouse. While the State Archives holds microfilm copies of these records for some counties for use by on-site researchers, inquiries should be directed to the courthouse of the county in which the death occurred. These records are not complete. Microfilm copies of some records can also be found at the FamilySearch Library in Salt Lake City, Utah.


For addresses and phone numbers for Pennsylvania courthouses websites use this [http://www.health.pa.gov/MyRecords/Certificates/Genealogy/Pages/608673.aspx#.WfDPl9G1vIU link].
'''PART A: You know the exact date of death '''


<br>
With an exact date (from your records), you can order a copy of the death record for a fee from the following locations:  
<center>[[How to Find Pennsylvania Death Records#Next_Step:When_did_the_death_occur.3F|Return to top: Choose another death year]]</center>
<br>


{| width="99%" border="0" align="center" class="FCK__ShowTableBorders"
{| width="100%" cellspacing="1" cellpadding="6" border="1"
|-
| align="center" colspan="4" | '''To Order Death Certificates'''
|-
| width="50%" align="center" colspan="2" | [http://vitalrec.com/wv.html#County From County of Death]
| width="50%" align="center" colspan="2" | [http://www.wvdhhr.org/bph/hsc/vital/birthcert.asp From WV Dept. of Health State office]
|-
| width="25%" align="center" | '''Pros'''
| width="25%" align="center" | '''Cons'''
| width="25%" align="center" | '''Pros'''
| width="25%" align="center" | '''Cons'''
|-
|-
! valign="middle" bgcolor="#302040" scope="col" |  
| May be less expensive and faster than ordering from the state
| County websites can be more difficult to use
| Offers a search of the state index for an additional fee
| May be more expensive than ordering from the county
|}
|}


== '''Deaths 1906-1973'''  ==
See [[How to Find West Virginia Death Records#Restrictions_for_Obtaining_Death_Records|list of restrictions]] for ordering death records
*'''1856-1971:''' {{RecordSearch|4138690|Pennsylvania, Historical Society of Pennsylvania, Deaths and Burials, 1856-1971}} at FamilySearch - [[Pennsylvania, Historical Society of Pennsylvania, Deaths and Burials - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index & images
*'''1906-1964:''' [https://www.myheritage.com/research/collection-10724/pennsylvania-death-index-1906-1964?utm_source=organic_blog&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=supersearch&tr_funnel=supersearch&tr_country=US&tr_creative=aug19historicalrecords&utm_content=aug19historicalrecords Pennsylvania Death Index, 1906-1964] ($), index
<br>
'''1906''' began the period of state wide registration for deaths. Currently death certificates 1906-1966 are available at the State Archives. The certificates may be reviewed in person during public research hours, Wednesday-Friday, 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.


An index is available on the website of the [http://www.phmc.pa.gov/Archives/Research-Online/Pages/Vital-Statistics.aspx Division of Vital Records] and at the Pennsylvania Archives. When visiting the Archives, researchers will be limited to ten certificates per day for records with known file numbers. No telephone or e-mail requests in advance of one's visit to the Archives will be accepted. Researchers should plan to allow a minimum of 20-40 minutes for retrieval of these records.  
If you do not want to order the death record, you can search [[Substitute Records For United States Death Information|other records with death information]].  


Records for this time period are available through Ancestry - $<br>  
<br> '''PART B: You don't know the exact date of death'''


:*Currently [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/5164/ 1906-1970 Death Certificates] are available
If you do not know the exact date or place of death:<br> For a fee, the [http://www.wvdhhr.org/bph/hsc/vital/birthcert.asp West Virginia Department of Health office] will do a 3 year search (click on the death certificates tab).<br>


Copies of death certificates, 1906-1973, may be requested from the Pennsylvania Archives by mail:<br>
See [[How to Find West Virginia Death Records#Restrictions_for_Obtaining_Death_Records|list of restrictions]] for ordering death records
 
:*[http://www.phmc.pa.gov/Archives/Research-Online/Pages/Vital-Statistics.aspx Pennsylvania State Archives]<br>350 North Street<br>Harrisburg, PA 17120-0090<br>Phone: (717) 783-3281
 
Death certificates from 1906 to the present can also be obtained from:<br>
 
:*[https://www.health.pa.gov/topics/certificates/Pages/Death-Certificates.aspx Division of Vital Records]<br>ATTN: Public Records<br>P.O. Box 1528<br>New Castle, PA 16103<br>Phone: (724) 656-3100<br>
 
Also, try:
*{{RecordSearch|1202535|United States Social Security Death Index - starts 1962}} Index.
*[http://search.ancestry.com/search/db.aspx?dbid=3693 U.S., Social Security Death Index, 1935-2014] ($)
*[http://search.ancestry.com/search/db.aspx?dbid=60901 U.S., Social Security Applications and Claims Index, 1936-2007], incomplete ($).
'''If you do not want to order the death record, you can search [[Substitute Records For United States Death Information|other records with death information]].'''
 
'''<center>[[How to Find Pennsylvania Death Records#Next_Step:When_did_the_death_occur.3F|Return to top: Choose another death year]]</center>'''


If you do not want to order the death record, you can search [[Substitute Records For United States Death Information|other records with death information]].
<center>[[How to Find West Virginia Death Records#Next_Step:_When_did_the_death_occur.3F|Return to top: Choose another death year]]</center>
<br>  
<br>  


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== '''Deaths 1964-Present'''  ==
== '''Restrictions for Obtaining Death Records'''  ==
*'''1856-1971:''' {{RecordSearch|4138690|Pennsylvania, Historical Society of Pennsylvania, Deaths and Burials, 1856-1971}} at FamilySearch - [[Pennsylvania, Historical Society of Pennsylvania, Deaths and Burials - Familysearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index & images<br>


Death records for this period are available to the public but there is no online index to search. To determine the death date for an individual in to order a death certificate search [[Substitute Records For United States Death Information|substitute records]].
'''''Restrictions for persons born who died within the last 50 years:'''''<br> To obtain a copy of the death certificate for those who died within the last 50 years, you must be:


{| width="70%" border="1" style="margin: 1em auto"
:*The parent or grandparent of the person on the certificate
|-
:*The spouse of the person on the certificate
| align="center" colspan="3" |  '''Records that give death information:'''
:*The child or grandchild of the person on the certificate
|-
:*The sibling of the person on the certificate
| width="35%" |
:*Funeral director
:[[Pennsylvania Bible Records|Bible Records]]
:*Anyone who has legal interest in the certificate
:[[Pennsylvania Cemeteries|Cemetery Records]]
::'''NOTE:''' A copy of the death record cannot be obtained by anyone except those listed above until 50 years have passed from the date of the death.
:[[Pennsylvania Church Records|Church Records]]
:[[Pennsylvania Land and Property|Land]]


| width="35%" |
If you do not want to order the death record, you can search [[Substitute Records For United States Death Information|other records with death information]].  
:[[Pennsylvania Newspapers|Newspapers]]
<center>[[How to Find West Virginia Death Records#Next_Step:_When_did_the_death_occur.3F|Return to top: Choose another death year]]</center>  
:[[Pennsylvania Probate Records|Probate (wills, etc)]]
:[[Pennsylvania Taxation|Tax Records]]
 
|}
 
Death certificates from 1906 to the present can also be obtained from:<br>
 
:*[https://www.health.pa.gov/topics/certificates/Pages/Death-Certificates.aspx Division of Vital Records]<br>ATTN: Public Records<br>P.O. Box 1528<br>New Castle, PA 16103<br>Phone: (724) 656-3100<br>
<center>[[How to Find Pennsylvania Death Records#Next_Step:When_did_the_death_occur.3F|Return to top: Choose another death year]]</center>  
<br>  
<br>  


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== '''Who May Request a Death Certificate?'''  ==
Only certain people can request a death certificate. You must be:
:*Legal representative of decedent's estate
:*Immediate family member
:*Extended family member who indicates a direct relationship to the decedent
:*Power of Attorney (Please note that a Power of Attorney document is no longer valid upon the death of the individual)


=== Related Wiki Articles  ===
=== Related Wiki Articles  ===
Line 326: Line 290:
:*[[How to Find United States Birth Records|How to Find United States Birth Records]]  
:*[[How to Find United States Birth Records|How to Find United States Birth Records]]  
:*[[How to Find United States Death Records|Learn more about U.S. Death Records]]  
:*[[How to Find United States Death Records|Learn more about U.S. Death Records]]  
:*[[United States Record Finder|United States Record Finder]]  
:*[[United States Record Selection Table|United States Record Selection Table ]]  
:*[[U.S. Vital Records Overview|U.S. Vital Records Overview]]  
:*[[U.S. Vital Records Overview|U.S. Vital Records Overview]]  
:*[[United States Vital Records|United States Vital Records]]  
:*[[United States Vital Records|United States Vital Records]]  
:*[[Locating United States Vital Records|Locating United States Vital Records]]  
:*[[Locating United States Vital Records|Locating United States Vital Records]]  
:*[[United States Birth Records|United States Birth Records]]  
:*[[United States Birth Records|United States Birth Records ]]  
:*[[United States Marriage Records|United States Marriage Records]]
:*[[United States Marriage Records|United States Marriage Records]]


{{Pennsylvania|Pennsylvania}}
[[Category:United_States_Vital_Records]] [[Category:West_Virginia]]
Category:Pennsylvania_Vital_Records Category:How-To Articles
 
[[Category:Sandbox]]

Revision as of 15:22, 29 May 2013

How to Find United States Deaths Gotoarrow.png Pennsylvania Deaths

Statewide registration for Pennsylvania deaths began in 1906. Prior to the state keeping death records counties kept death records beginning in 1893.

Next Step: When did the death occur? [edit | edit source]
Death Records
Choose a time period:

Learn more about U.S. Death Records

Deaths before 1853[edit | edit source]

West Virginia did not exist at this time and was known as the state of Virginia.Before 1853, no deaths were recorded by the county or state. You must search substitute records to locate your ancestor’s death date and place.

  Records that give death information:
Cemetery Records
Newspapers
Probate (wills, etc)
Tax Records
Church Records
Census
Bible Records
Return to top: Choose another death year


Deaths from 1853 thru 1916[edit | edit source]

  • 1853 - Virginia law required counties to record deaths, although records are incomplete
  • 1863 - West Virginia was created from the state of Virginia
  • 1917 - West Virginia Statewide death registration began

If you cannot locate your ancestor in the databases below try searching for death information in other records.

For deaths that exist during the time period, try the following databases. Try each link.

West Virginia Deaths Databases - Includes Index and Digital Images

Try 1st:


1853-1970 - At West Virginia Division of Culture and History Free; dates vary by county and some only go to 1962; list of database county coverage (right side of the screen)on WV website
Try 2nd:


1853-1970 - At FamilySearch.org Free; dates vary by county and some only go to 1962; list of database county coverage (right side of the screen)on WV website; click on "view partner website" to see a copy of the image
Can't find your ancestor in the online index? Tips for searching online indexes
No death record for your ancestor? Other records with death information
Return to top: Choose another death year


Deaths from 1917 thru 1970[edit | edit source]

The state of West Virginia began recording deaths in January 1917.

STEP ONE: Find Death Information[edit | edit source]

For deaths that exist during this time period, try the following databases. Try each link.

West Virginia Deaths Databases - Includes Index and Digital Images
Try 1st:
1853-1970 - At West Virginia Division of Culture and History Free; dates vary by county and some only go to 1962; list of database county coverage (right side of the screen) on WV website
Try 2nd:
1853-1970 - At FamilySearch.org Free; dates vary by county and some only go to 1962; list of database county coverage (right side of the screen) on WV website; click on "view partner website" to see a copy of the image
Next try:
Ancestry Database: Includes Index Only

Choose one of the following:

1853-1973 - use Ancestry Institution at FamilySearch Centers/Libraries Free at FamilySearch Centers and Libraries; Find your local FamilySearch Center

1853-1973 - use your Ancestry subscription $, To obtain a subscription to Ancestry; Ancestry is often available for free through your local public library
Can't access Ancestry? Go to Step Two Part B listed below. You may be able to order the death record for your ancestor from the West Virginia Department of Health State Office.
Can't find your ancestor in the online index? Tips for searching online indexes
No death record for your ancestor? Other records with death information

STEP TWO: Obtain the Certificate[edit | edit source]

PART A: You know the exact date of death

If the image was not included in the index entry above, you can order a copy of the death record for a fee from the following locations:

To Order Death Certificates
From County of Death From WV Dept. of Health State office
Pros Cons Pros Cons
May be less expensive and faster than ordering from the state County websites can be more difficult to use Offers a search of the state index for an additional fee May be more expensive than ordering from the county

See list of restrictions for ordering death records

If you do not want to order the death record, you can search other records with death information.

PART B: You don't know the exact date of death

If you do not know the exact date or place of death:
For a fee, the West Virginia Department of Health office will do a 3 year search (click on the death certificates tab).

See list of restrictions for ordering death records


If you do not want to order the death record, you can search other records with death information.

Return to top: Choose another death year


Deaths after 1970[edit | edit source]

PART A: You know the exact date of death

With an exact date (from your records), you can order a copy of the death record for a fee from the following locations:

To Order Death Certificates
From County of Death From WV Dept. of Health State office
Pros Cons Pros Cons
May be less expensive and faster than ordering from the state County websites can be more difficult to use Offers a search of the state index for an additional fee May be more expensive than ordering from the county

See list of restrictions for ordering death records

If you do not want to order the death record, you can search other records with death information.


PART B: You don't know the exact date of death

If you do not know the exact date or place of death:
For a fee, the West Virginia Department of Health office will do a 3 year search (click on the death certificates tab).

See list of restrictions for ordering death records

If you do not want to order the death record, you can search other records with death information.

Return to top: Choose another death year


Restrictions for Obtaining Death Records[edit | edit source]

Restrictions for persons born who died within the last 50 years:
To obtain a copy of the death certificate for those who died within the last 50 years, you must be:

  • The parent or grandparent of the person on the certificate
  • The spouse of the person on the certificate
  • The child or grandchild of the person on the certificate
  • The sibling of the person on the certificate
  • Funeral director
  • Anyone who has legal interest in the certificate
NOTE: A copy of the death record cannot be obtained by anyone except those listed above until 50 years have passed from the date of the death.

If you do not want to order the death record, you can search other records with death information.

Return to top: Choose another death year


Related Wiki Articles[edit | edit source]

To access available information, first log into FamilySearch.

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