Border Lines

Alaska began keeping vital statistics records in the early 20th century. Since then, all birth, death, divorce and marriage certificates have been strictly confidential. Once a period of time passes, however, these documents become part of the public records and can be seen by any interested party. Birth certificates join the public record 100 years after the event, while Alaska state death records, marriage and divorce certificates are available to the public 50 years after the event.

Limited Access

Prior to the certificate becoming part of the public record, not everyone can purchase a death certificate. Purchases are limited to the immediate family of the deceased, including the spouse, parent, sibling or child. Once all of the paperwork requesting a death certificate has been completed, it is mailed to the receiving party about one month later. An Alaska death certificate costs $20, with extra charges applying to credit card payments or authentication for a foreign country.

The Uses Of A Death Certificate

Death certificates can be used by people tracing their family histories. The certificates are also required as proof that the deceased has actually passed away in order to execute the will or make a life insurance claim. In some areas, it may be necessary to make cremation arrangements.

Leading Causes Of Death In Alaska

Cancer, also known as a malignant neoplasm, has been the leading cause of death in Alaska for at least the last decade. Coming in a close second is heart disease. In 2008, over 600 Alaskans died of heart disease. Unintended injuries ranked as the third leading cause of death. More than 330 people died of unintended injuries in Alaska during 2008.

Doing An Initial Search

To find out about Alaska death records for a particular person is a relatively simple process. You can begin with a preliminary search on a vital statistics website. From there, you can determine whether or not you would like to obtain a copy of the certificate.

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