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Kansas · How-To Guide

How do I get a copy of a death certificate?

Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), Office of Vital Statistics (state level - Topeka)
Step by Step

How to do it

  1. Determine eligibility: Kansas death certificates are NOT public records. Eligible requesters: the person named (if applicable), immediate family members, legal representatives, or others who can prove direct interest (named beneficiary, joint property owner, funeral home, etc.).
  2. Choose your method:
  3. IN PERSON: KDHE Office of Vital Statistics, Curtis State Office Building, 1000 SW Jackson St., Suite 120, Topeka, KS 66612; Mon-Fri 8:00 AM-5:00 PM; typically 15 minutes; bring valid photo ID
  4. BY MAIL: Complete death certificate application (available at kdhe.ks.gov); include photocopy of valid government-issued photo ID; include check or money order payable to "Kansas Vital Statistics" (NO CASH); mail to KDHE Office of Vital Statistics, Topeka
  5. ONLINE/PHONE: VitalChek - additional fees apply
  6. Submit with valid photo ID and proof of relationship or direct interest
  7. Pay the $20 fee
Details

What you need to know

Required Docs
  • Completed death certificate request application
  • Photocopy of valid government-issued photo ID; OR two alternative documents if no photo ID
  • Proof of qualifying relationship or direct and tangible interest
  • Payment: check or money order to "Kansas Vital Statistics" (NO CASH)
Fee
$20 per certified copy (non-refundable 5-year search fee; one copy issued if found); each additional copy of same record: $15 (verify current fee)
Processing Time
In person: ~15 minutes; mail: ~1 week from receipt; VitalChek: expedited
Online Option
Yes - VitalChek (only authorized vendor)
Where to Go
KDHE Office of Vital Statistics, 1000 SW Jackson St., Suite 120, Topeka, KS 66612; VitalChek online
Kansas Notes

Important state-specific details

  • Kansas death records began July 1, 1911; for earlier records, contact Kansas Historical Society (kshs.org).
  • $20 fee is NON-REFUNDABLE even if no record found.
  • Kansas vital records are NOT public records - restricted to eligible requesters.
  • Order multiple copies at once - estates, insurance, banks, SSA, VA each need a certified copy.
  • Funeral homes assist with initial filing for recent deaths.
  • Do NOT send cash by mail.
Official Source

State office contact

State Office
KDHE Office of Vital Statistics - kdhe.ks.gov/1165/Office-of-Vital-Statistics | (785) 296-1400 | 1000 SW Jackson St., Suite 120, Topeka, KS 66612