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

FeeHow to collect
At the registration£12.50 per copyOn the day.
After the registration£12.50 per copyProcessed in 5 working days and sent by 2nd class post.
Priority service£38.50

Requests received before 3pm are sent on the day of the application.

If requested after 3pm, the certificate will be posted the next day.

Certificates are posted 1st class and delivered by Royal Mail.

Certificates can be paid by debit, credit card, or cheque or postal order made payable to Kent County Council.