Death certificates
Death certificates are only available after the death has been registered by a family member or other qualified informant.
You may need to order multiple copies of a death certificate for:
- banks and building societies
- insurance companies
- national saving accounts
- property matters may be being dealt with by a solicitor (they can copy and certify at a cost if more than one needed)
- stocks and shares
- redirecting post.
Apply for a copy of a death certificate
We hold records of all deaths that have occurred in the Kent and Bexley Registration Districts since 1 July 1837. Any death certificates before this date may be found via our Kent History and Library Centre.
Or find out how to obtain a copy of a death certificate if:
What we need from you
To order a copy of a death certificate we need to know:
- full name of deceased
- date of death
- name and address of place of death
- maiden name (if applicable).
How to apply
You can apply online, by phone or by post. We'll post your certificate within 5 working days. Certificates cannot be emailed.
- Apply online
- Call 03000 419 300 - open 9am to 4:45pm Monday to Friday (open from 10am on Thursdays).
- To apply by post download a printable application form (PDF, 775.3 KB) (this document is not accessible to those using assistive technology) and return it to:
- The Certificate Centre, Kent County Council, Births, Deaths, Marriages and Partnerships, 39 Grove Hill Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1EP.
Fees for death certificates
- Issued on the day of registration: £11.
- Issued after the registration, order processed within 5 working days and sent 2nd class post: £11.
- Express service for certificates issued on the day of application before 3pm and sent 1st class post: £35 (£11 plus £24 express fee).
Certificates can be paid by debit, credit card, or cheque or postal order made payable to Kent County Council