How to Find Copies of Vital Records

Vital records consist of birth, death, marriage, divorce and health records, among others. Most of these are available to the public and usually contain at least the full name of the person, age and location an event took place. Some, such as birth records, include more information such as the parent's names and birthplaces and others, like divorce records, list the couple's children. The methods for obtaining vital records varies from state to state and county to county, so following certain guidelines is necessary to order copies. Unfortunately, copies cost a small fee.

Instructions

• 1

  Go to the Vitalrec website and choose the type of records for which you are looking. You can search birth, death, marriage, divorce as well as obituaries and cemeteries.

• 2

  Choose the state where the vital records are held in the drop-down menu titled "Choose a State or Territory". Scroll down to view the "State Vital Records Office Information" and contact the office listed by phone, online, mail or in person.

• 3

  Order the records online or by mail and include the fee listed. In most cases you can search the Social Security Death Index for free.

• 4

  Go to The Records Project website for further research into vital records. Choose the type of record you are looking for, the state and county and click "Search Now". The website will list all information to guide you as well as locations to contact to obtain the records.