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Request a death certificate

To order a death certificate for someone, start by searching for their name:

Examples: “j doe”, “robert frost 1963”, “johnson 1956–1957”

Note: We have death certificates from 1956 to the present for anyone who died in Boston or listed Boston as their home. If you need a death certificate from before 1956, you will need to order by mail or in person.

Need the Social Security number on the certificate?

Starting July 1, 2026, Social Security numbers will not appear on Massachusetts death certificates unless you have an eligible need.

If you need the Social Security number, you’ll need to:

  • Provide documents that verify your identity
  • Provide documents that show your relationship to the person who died

Before you begin: Review the required documents

Deaths before January 1, 1978

Social Security numbers cannot be printed on death certificates for deaths that occurred before January 1, 1978.

All death certificates issued by the City of Boston Registry are valid, even if the Social Security number is not included.

Learn more about death certificates and Social Security numbers.