I suddenly have to plan a funeral. What do I need to know about cost?
Understand the average cost of a funeral and the average cost per item incurred.
If the crime occurred in North Carolina, NC Crime Victims Compensation will cover up to $5,000 for an approved application. NC can make arrangements to pay the funeral home directly.
To protect you, the Federal Government requires funeral homes to provide a price quote of all items you have chosen.
My loved one has been murdered. How do I close the estate?
These are examples of property and/or information that may need your attention: apartment, lease, car, cell phone, banking.
In order to resolve these issues, you’ll need a death certificate as proof that the person you’re acting on behalf of is deceased.
For more information please visit the NC Courts website.
Who files the death certificate and how long does it take to get one?
People who may file the death certificate:
- Funeral Director/Funeral Home
- Hospital
- Medical Examiner’s Office
The time it takes to get a death certificate depends on the circumstances of death. If waiting on the cause of death, a temporary certificate will be issued.
How do I obtain a death certificate?
If you need a copy of the death certificate, you will need to find your Register of Deeds office.
You can obtain the death certificate in-person by scheduling an appointment or ordering your certificate online. Review the Vital Records website for more information.
Expect a nominal fee: Certified Copy ($10)
Uncertified Copy ($0.25-$1.00) varies by county. A minimal “convenience fee” for online requests and fees for “expediting” (typically $15 or more) may be added. Expect to produce an ID.
Who can obtain a death certificate?
As authorized by NCGS 130A-93(c), copies may only be issued to the following:
- Spouse, sibling, direct ancestor (child or grandchild) or descendant (parents or grandparents) or stepparent or stepchild
- A person seeking information for a legal determination of personal or property rights
- An authorized agent, attorney or legal representative of a person described above
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