Death Records in Broward County Florida

Broward County death records are maintained by the Florida Department of Health in Fort Lauderdale. This office serves the second most populous county in Florida with nearly 2 million residents. The vital records division processes thousands of death certificate requests annually. Death records serve critical functions for families, attorneys, and government agencies throughout South Florida. Florida Statute Chapter 382 provides the legal framework for death record management. Broward County ensures efficient access to these documents while protecting confidentiality as required by state law.

Where to Get Broward County Death Records

Need a death certificate? The Florida Department of Health in Broward County processes all death record requests for the county. The main office is located in Fort Lauderdale, which serves as the primary service center. This location handles the high volume of requests from residents throughout the metropolitan area. Staff members are trained to assist with walk-in requests, phone inquiries, and application processing. The office maintains efficient systems to serve the large population of Broward County.

Broward County residents may also access death records through VitalChek's online platform. This service partners with Florida's vital records system to provide convenient ordering options. The online system proves especially valuable for those who cannot visit the Fort Lauderdale office during business hours. Service fees are added to state certificate costs for this convenience. Visit broward.floridahealth.gov for comprehensive information about services and hours.

The office operates with specific hours to serve the public. Regular hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. On every third Thursday, the office closes at 3 p.m. for staff training. The Paul Hughes location offers extended hours on Wednesday from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. These schedules accommodate various work schedules and needs. Florida Statute Chapter 382 governs all death record procedures in Broward County.

How to Request Death Records in Broward County

Three distinct methods exist. Choose yours.

In-person requests at the Fort Lauderdale office provide immediate same-day service. Visit during regular business hours with proper identification and eligibility documentation. Staff members verify your credentials and process requests on the spot. This approach offers the fastest resolution for urgent needs. Most visits are completed efficiently with minimal wait times.

Mail requests provide an alternative for those who prefer not to visit in person. Complete the official application form and include photocopies of your identification. Enclose payment and a self-addressed stamped envelope for return delivery. Processing typically requires 7 to 10 business days from receipt. Additional time should be allocated for postal transit in both directions.

Online ordering through VitalChek remains accessible 24 hours every day. Visit the website and follow the guided application process. Credit card payment is required for all online transactions. Orders are generally processed within 3 to 5 business days. Expedited shipping options are available for time-sensitive situations.

Note: All request methods require satisfactory proof of eligibility before death records will be released.

Fees for Death Records in Broward County

Broward County follows the standardized fee schedule established by the Florida Department of Health. The cost for the first certified copy of a death certificate is $12. Each additional copy ordered simultaneously costs $8. These fees support the vital records infrastructure and ensure secure document handling. The health department accepts multiple payment methods depending on the submission approach.

For in-person requests, acceptable payment forms include cash, personal checks, and money orders. All checks must be made payable to the Florida Department of Health. Online orders placed through VitalChek incur additional service fees. These charges cover the costs of electronic verification and processing systems. Credit card payments are accepted exclusively for internet-based transactions.

Full payment must accompany all requests prior to processing initiation. The office does not provide billing services or accept payment upon delivery. Orders submitted with improper payment types will experience processing delays. Please contact the office directly with any questions regarding current fees or acceptable payment methods.

Types of Death Records Available

Two distinct categories exist. Pick wisely.

Certified copies feature the official embossed seal of the State of Florida. These documents serve as legally recognized proof of death. Financial institutions require them for account closures and asset transfers. Insurance companies need them to process benefit claims and settlements. Attorneys rely on them for court proceedings and estate administration. Most formal and legal transactions require this type of certificate. The embossed seal ensures the document will be accepted throughout the United States.

Non-certified copies are available at a reduced cost but do not carry the official seal. They are appropriate for genealogical research and family history documentation. Certain organizations may accept them for informational reference purposes. However, they cannot be used as legal documentation for official transactions. You may not use non-certified copies to collect benefits, transfer property titles, or complete other formal proceedings. Always confirm your specific document requirements before placing an order.

See the Broward County Health Department website for complete service information.

This image shows the health department facility where Broward County residents obtain death certificates and other vital records.

Note: Always verify which type of death certificate your situation requires before submitting your order.

Who Can Get Broward County Death Records

Florida law establishes restrictions on death record access to protect family privacy during difficult times. Chapter 382 of the Florida Statutes codifies these important safeguards. Broward County enforces these requirements consistently across all requests. You must demonstrate your legal authority to receive a copy of a death record.

Immediate family members possess automatic authorization to obtain death records. This category includes surviving spouses, parents, and children of the deceased. Grandchildren may also request records under established guidelines. Valid government-issued photo identification is mandatory for all requests. Documentation proving your relationship to the deceased is also required. Acceptable proof includes birth certificates, marriage licenses, and other official records. Staff members carefully verify all submitted documentation.

Legal representatives may obtain death records on behalf of families or estates. This group includes licensed attorneys and court-appointed estate administrators. Official court documents establishing your representative authority must be provided. The health department carefully reviews all such documentation. Agents presenting properly notarized authorization from family members may also submit applications.

Individuals with demonstrable legal interests may be granted access to death records. This category includes named beneficiaries in wills and trusts. It extends to persons with documented legal claims against estates. Evidence of your legitimate interest must be submitted with your request. Judicial orders may be necessary in some complex situations. Contact the office to determine what specific documentation will be required.

Visit the death certificates page for detailed ordering procedures.

This page provides comprehensive information about requesting death certificates in Broward County.

Cities in Broward County

Broward County encompasses numerous municipalities in South Florida. All residents obtain death records through the Fort Lauderdale office. The county includes major cities and smaller communities alike.

Additional Broward County cities include Davie, Plantation, Sunrise, Deerfield Beach, Tamarac, and Lauderhill. All areas access death certificate services through the main office at 2421-A S.W. 6th Avenue.

Nearby Counties

These counties share borders with Broward County. Contact their respective health departments for death records from those jurisdictions.