Who issues the death certificate?
Only the Kentucky Office of Vital Statistics (OVS) in Frankfort issues Kentucky death certificates. A funeral home or crematory cannot issue the certificate, and we do not keep death certificates in our files.
What happens after the death?
The funeral director enters the required information into Kentucky's Electronic Death Registration System (EDRS).
The doctor or other medical certifier completes the medical information in EDRS.
The Office of Vital Statistics reviews and certifies the record.
OVS prints the certified copies and mails them through the U.S. Postal Service.
Important: The funeral home cannot order or provide the certified copies for you. You must order them directly from OVS/VitalChek.
How long does it take?
OVS and medical offices process records Monday through Friday. They do not process records on holidays. The process takes at least 3 weeks. It may take longer if the local Coroner's Office is involved.
Tip
Decide how many copies you need before ordering. Certified copies are often needed for banks, insurance companies, government agencies, and other legal or financial matters.
How to order certified copies
Each certified copy costs $6. You may order as many copies as you need. Choose one of the following options:
By mail
Complete the death certificate order form provided to you and mail it to the Office of Vital Statistics using the address on the form.
Online
Visit www.vitalchek.com and follow the instructions to order Kentucky death certificates.
Visit VitalChekBy phone
Call 1-800-241-8322 and choose option 1.
Call to Order