Death Records in Walton County Florida

Walton County death records are maintained by the Florida Department of Health in DeFuniak Springs. This office serves residents in the Florida Panhandle. The county includes beach communities and inland areas. Death certificates provide critical documentation for legal and financial matters. Florida Statute Chapter 382 governs all death record procedures. Walton County provides efficient access to these important documents.

Where to Get Walton County Death Records

At 362 State Highway 83 in DeFuniak Springs, the Florida Department of Health in Walton County processes death record requests. This location serves all Walton County residents. Staff members assist with walk-in and phone requests. Call the office at (850) 892-8021 for information. Staff explain ordering procedures. They answer questions about required documents. The website at walton.floridahealth.gov provides additional details.

Walton County maintains death records from 2009 to present. Florida law restricts access to qualified individuals. You must prove your relationship to obtain copies. The privacy period lasts 50 years from death.

How to Request Death Records in Walton County

Three ways exist to obtain death records in Walton County. Each produces certified copies. Choose the method that fits your needs.

In-person service offers same-day processing. Visit the DeFuniak Springs office with proper ID. Staff verify your eligibility quickly. They print certificates during your visit. Mail requests suit those who cannot visit. Complete the application form. Include ID copy and payment. Add a return envelope. Processing takes 7 to 10 days. Online ordering uses VitalChek. Visit their website anytime. Credit card payment is required. Processing takes 3 to 5 days. Rush shipping is available.

Note: All methods require proof of your legal right to the record.

Fees for Death Records in Walton County

Walton County follows state fee guidelines. The first certified copy costs $12. Each additional copy in the same order costs $8. These fees support vital records operations.

The office accepts cash, check, and money order in person. Make checks payable to the Florida Department of Health. Online orders use credit cards through VitalChek. Service fees apply to web orders.

Full payment must accompany all requests. The office does not bill later. Incorrect payments delay processing.

Types of Death Records Available

Walton County issues certified copies of death certificates. These carry the official Florida state seal. They serve as legal proof of death. Banks, insurers, and courts require them. Certified copies work for all official purposes. The seal ensures nationwide acceptance. Keep them safe for future use.

Visit the Walton County Health Department for more information.

The health department building where Walton County residents obtain death records.

Note: Verify which type of certificate your situation requires before ordering. Check with the requesting agency to ensure you get the correct document.

Florida State Resources

The Bureau of Vital Statistics maintains statewide records. Contact them at 1217 N Pearl St., Jacksonville, FL 32202. Phone: (904) 359-6900. They have records from 2009 to present. For older records, visit their office in person. Bring proper identification. Staff can help locate difficult-to-find documents.

VitalChek provides online ordering for all counties. Visit vitalchek.com. Service fees apply. Most orders process within days. Expedited shipping is available. This service works well for those living out of state.

Florida Statutes Chapter 382 governs death records. View at leg.state.fl.us. This law covers access rules and privacy. Understanding these statutes helps you navigate the system. The law protects family privacy while allowing proper access. Researchers should review these statutes before requesting records.

Genealogy researchers can find help at the State Archives. They have old death records on file. Some records go back many decades. The archives are good for family history work. They are in Tallahassee. Call ahead to confirm hours and access procedures.

Cities in Walton County

Walton County includes communities in the Florida Panhandle. All residents obtain death records through the DeFuniak Springs office.

Other Walton County areas include Santa Rosa Beach, Miramar Beach, and Freeport. All death records are processed at 362 State Highway 83.

Nearby Counties

These counties share borders with Walton County. Contact their offices for records from those areas.