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How many certified copies

Count institutions that asked for their own paper. Then order them on one request. This is a planning count, not a legal requirement. Read the full guide if you want the reasoning.

Count the desks

How many copies?

Institutions rarely share a certificate. Count each one, then keep two spares. Order them on a single request. Extras are cheaper than a second wait.

Banks and credit unions

One per institution, maybe two if there is a box

Life insurance companies

Per company, not per policy

Houses or land

Vehicles to retitle

Retirement or IRA custodians

A court or lawyer already asked for a certified copyCount it only if someone already requested the paper. This is not advice that you need a court filing.

Recommended

6 counted + 2 spares, raised to a floor of 10 copies.

State or city desk

Ten Copies provides general administrative information about requesting a certified U.S. death certificate from official vital records offices. It does not constitute legal advice, is not a substitute for advice from a licensed attorney, and does not establish an attorney-client relationship.