Death Records
How to obtain a copy of a Death Record
Application for a Death Record
The Town Clerk's Office has death records on file for persons who died in the Town of Columbia. The person applying for a copy of a death certficate must be the spouse, parent, child of the deceased or other person who has a documented legal right or claim, documented medical need or New York State Court Order. A person who wishes to obtain a certified copy of a death certificate may come to the Town Clerk's office during regular office hours with the appropriate identification and fee or the request may be received by mail. If you are requesting a death certificate by mail, you must complete the application which you will find attached above, include a photocopy of one of the following:
- State issued driver's license
- State issued non-driver's identification card
- US military issued photo identification card
- Passport
Additionally, you must include a certified check or money order in the amount of $10 made payable to the Columbia Town Clerk. Once the request is received it is processed and mailed the same day. Failure to include the necessary information will result in rejection of your application.
Please note when applying for a copy of a death certficate, proof of the relationship of the deceased is required or documentation showing a legal right or claim such as an official letter from the agency verifying that to process the claim the applicant is required to provide a copy of the death record. If a request for a copy of a death certificate is within six months from the time of death and the arrangements were handled by a funeral director, that director acting on behalf of the family may request a copy or copies.
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