This is the latest update on the changes for ordering birth and death certificates in WA State, coming January 1, 2021 as a result of a new vital records law and rules going into effect.

• For increased security of personal information, only individuals with specific relationships to the person on the record being requested can receive a certificate.
• Identity and proof of relationship documentation will be required.
• Certificate fee will increase to $25.00 per copy.

The Department of Health recently published a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) webpage to assist everyone in better understanding what the new requirements are for ordering birth and death certificates. The FAQ webpage contains information about who can, and how to, order birth and death certificates.

More information and resources will become available as January 1, 2021 approaches.  DOH is working on developing informational handouts to provide to customers that may have questions about how to order birth and death certificates after January 1, 2021.