Death Certificates

Death certificates are only available for people who died in Lorain County. We cannot issue death certificates for people who died in another Ohio county. Certified copies of death certificates are $25 each. Uncertified copies are not available. We also provide birth certificates.

2 staff members smiling waiting to greet customers

For the first five years after the date of death*, the Social Security number of the deceased will not be included on the death certificate unless the person requesting is

  • The deceased’s spouse or lineal descendant, such as a child or grandchild.
  • The deceased’s executor, attorney, or legal agent.
  • A representative of an investigative government agency.
  • A private investigator.
  • A funeral director or agent responsible for disposition of the body acting on behalf of the deceased’s family.
  • A veteran’s service officer.
  • An accredited member of the media.

*Effective October 15, 2015. 

Order a death certificate 3 different ways.

In-person at Lorain County Public Health, 9880 Murray Ridge Rd., Elyria, OH 44035  public health staff assist a client to complete paperwork

  • Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Cash, Discover, MasterCard, Visa and money orders accepted.
    Certificate copies are held for five business days if paying by personal check to LCPH. No refunds once the certificate leaves the premises.

Online through VitalChek or call VitalChek at 1-888-290-0228

  • VitalChek charges an additional fee. All major credit cards are accepted. 

Through the U.S. mail

  • Fill out this form. (If you prefer Spanish, fill out this form instead.)
  • Mail completed form, check or money order and self-addressed stamped envelope to:
         Vital Statistics
         Lorain County Public Health
         9880 Murray Ridge Rd.
         Elyria, OH  44035