How-To: Certified Copies of Death Certificates

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Town Clerk's Office

Certified copies of Connecticut death certificates can be obtained through the Town Clerk’s Office if the death occurred in North Canaan or if the decedent resided in North Canaan at the time of death.

Death Certificate Request Form.pdf


Certified death certificates are legal documents used for purposes such as:
 ✔ Estate & probate administration
 ✔ Life insurance claims
 ✔ Financial & banking matters
 ✔ Social Security
 ✔ Veterans benefits
 ✔ Legal documentation


Who May Request a Certified Copy

Connecticut law restricts access to certain information on death certificates. The requester must be one of the following:


  • Spouse


  • Parent / Legal Guardian


  • Adult Child / Adult Grandchild


  • Grandparent


  • Adult Sibling


  • Executor or Administrator of the Estate


  • Attorney or Legal Representative


  • Funeral Director (acting in official capacity)


  • Government agency with legal purpose



Photo identification is required.


Types of Death Certificates Available

Connecticut issues two versions:


1. Certified Copy — Full (Long Form)


Includes:


  • All fields


  • Cause of death


  • Decedent’s Social Security number (noted below)



Restricted to: Authorized family members, estate/legal representatives, and those with documented need.


2. Certified Copy — Short Form


Does not include:


  • Cause of death


  • Social Security number



Generally used for:


  • Insurance


  • Banking


  • General purposes



How to Request a Certified Copy

Request In Person


Visit the Town Clerk’s Office during posted hours and bring:


  • Valid government-issued photo ID


  • Required fee


  • If requesting long form, proof of eligibility may be required



Certified copies are typically issued same-day.


Request By Mail


Please submit:


  • Completed Death Certificate Request Form


  • Photocopy of valid photo ID


  • Payment by check or money order


  • Self-addressed stamped envelope recommended



Mail to:
 North Canaan Town Clerk
100 Pease Street #7
North Canaan, CT 06018



Required Identification

Acceptable forms of photo ID include:


  • Driver’s License


  • State ID Card


  • Passport


  • Military ID



If you cannot provide photo ID, please contact the Clerk for alternative documentation options.


Fees

Fees established by Connecticut State Statute:


  • $20.00 per certified copy


Accepted payment types:
 (Cash, Check, Money Order)



Processing Time
  • In-Person: Same day


  • By Mail: Usually 3–7 business days, plus mailing time



Information Typically Needed

Please be prepared to provide:


  • Full name of decedent


  • Date of death (or approximate range)


  • *Place of death (hospital, residence, etc.)


  • Your relationship to the decedent


Forms & Downloads

📄 Death Certificate Request Form (PDF)

→Death Certificate Request Form.pdf



Important Notes
  • Access to the Social Security number and cause of death may require additional documentation


  • Some records require proof of relationship or legal interest



Contact the Town Clerk

For questions or assistance regarding death certificates:


North Canaan Town Clerk
100 Pease Street #7
North Canaan, CT 06018
Phone: (860)824-7313 x 106
Email: townclerk@northcanaan.org


Office Hours:
 Tuesday-Thursday 8:30am-3:30pm
Open for Lunch