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.

I suddenly have to plan a funeral. What do I need to know about cost?

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Understand the average cost of a funeral and the average cost per item incurred.

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If the crime occurred in North Carolina, NC Crime Victims Compensation will cover up to $5,000 for approved application.  NC can make arrangements to pay the funeral home directly.

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To protect you, the Federal Government requires funeral homes to provide a price quote of all items you have chosen.

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.