How much do death certificates cost in Michigan?
Costs vary significantly depending on where you order:
| Source | First copy | Additional copies |
|---|---|---|
| MDHHS (state) | $34 | $16 each |
| County clerk | Varies, often $15 | $6 each (varies) |
County clerks are generally much cheaper. For example, Ottawa County charges $15 for the first copy and $6 for additional copies. Check with your county for exact pricing.
Online orders through VitalChek include an additional $11.50 credit card fee plus a $12 rush fee, which can bring state-level orders above $55 per copy.
How to order
Through a funeral home (fastest)
Your funeral director handles the initial order. This is the simplest route and typically the fastest.
From a county clerk
County clerks issue death certificates for deaths that occurred in their county. This is usually the cheapest and fastest option for recent deaths.
- In person: Visit the county clerk's office with a valid photo ID. Many offices offer same-day service.
- By mail: Send a written request with payment and a copy of your ID.
From MDHHS (state level)
- Online: Through VitalChek, the authorized vendor. Standard processing takes 21 to 45 business days. Rapid service (1-5 business days) is available for a $50 VitalChek processing fee.
- By mail: Send a completed application with a check or money order for $34 payable to "State of Michigan." Processing takes 21 to 45 business days.
- In person: Visit the MDHHS vital records office. A $10 rush fee may apply for same-day service.
Processing times
| Method | Typical timeline |
|---|---|
| Funeral home | 2 to 4 weeks |
| County clerk (in person) | Same day |
| MDHHS online (standard) | 21 to 45 business days |
| MDHHS online (rapid, +$50) | 1 to 5 business days |
| MDHHS by mail | 21 to 45 business days |
Who can order?
Michigan death records are not restricted. Anyone can order a certified copy without proving a relationship to the deceased.
You will still need to provide the deceased's full name, date of death, and place of death. A valid photo ID is required for most ordering methods.
What to know about Michigan specifically
Go to the county clerk first. The cost difference is dramatic — $15 at many county clerks vs. $34 at the state level. County clerks also tend to process requests faster, especially in person.
Unrestricted access simplifies things. Michigan does not require proof of relationship to order a certified copy. This makes it easier for attorneys, financial advisors, and extended family members to help with estate settlement.
The small estate affidavit threshold. Michigan's small estate threshold is $51,000 for 2025 (adjusted annually). If you are using a small estate affidavit instead of formal probate, you will still need a certified death certificate to present alongside the affidavit.
For a broader overview of the death certificate process, see our guide on how to get death certificates. If you are handling probate, see our guide on how probate works in Michigan.
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