My loved one has been murdered. How do I close the estate?

These are examples of property and/or information that may need your attention:

• Apartment/Lease

• Car

• Cell phone

• Banking

More information can be found at this link: NC COURTS

In order to resolve these issues you’ll need a death certificate as proof that the person you’re acting on behalf of is deceased.

Who files the death certificate and how long does it take to get one?

People who may file the Death Certificate:

• Funeral Director/Funeral Home

• Hospital

• Medical Examiner’s Office

Time it takes to get a death certificate:

• Depends on circumstances of death.

• If waiting on cause of death, a temporary certificate will be issued.

How do I obtain a death certificate?

If you need a copy of the Death Certificate you will need to  find your register of deeds office here. You can go in-person or check online on their website. Find the tab that says “Vital Records.”

Expect a nominal fee:         Certified Copy($10)  

Uncertified Copy ($0.25-$1.00) varies by county

A minimal “convenience fee” for online requests and fees for “expediting” (typically $15 or more) may be added.

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Expect to produce ID – see list of acceptable ID’s  here .

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Please contact NCVAN’s main number for assistance 919-831-2857.

Who can obtain a death certificate?

As authorized by NCGS 130A-93(c), copies may only be issued to the following:

Spouse, sibling, direct ancestor (child or grandchild) or descendant (parents or grandparents) or stepparent or stepchild;

A person seeking information for a legal determination of personal or property rights; or

An authorized agent, attorney or legal representative of a person described above.