Death Records

                                

How to Obtain a Copy of a Death Record

You can obtain a copy of the death record of someone who died in Johnston County from the Johnston County Register of Deeds office.

If the person for whom you are requesting the record died outside of Johnston County, you can contact the Register of Deeds office directly to obtain the name, address and telephone number of other agencies where you can obtain this information.  

In Person

1. Download and complete the Application for Certified Copies of Vital Records form. 
2. Bring proper identification and $0.10 for each uncertified copy, and $10.00 each for certified copies.  We gladly accept Cash, debit/credit, ApplePay, or GooglePay, sorry NO CHECKS.
3. Stop by the Register of Deeds office on the first floor of the Johnston County Courthouse in Smithfield during business hours.
   
   

By Mail

1. Download and complete the Application for Certified Copies of Vital Records form.
2. Include the deceased's name and date of death with your application. 
3. Sign your request and enclose a stamped, self-addressed envelope (SASE), along with a copy of your current driver's license. 
4. Include $.10 for uncertified copies, and $10.00 for certified copies, in the form of cash, a money order, or certified funds. Personal checks are NOT ACCEPTED.
5. Mail your request to: Vital Records, P.O. Box 118, Smithfield, NC 27577
   
   

Pertinent Questions

What are the costs in obtaining a death certificate? 
A certified copy costs $10.00; an uncertified copy is 10 cents. Include a stamped, self-addressed envelope for mail requests.

How long does it take to obtain a copy? 
We try to answer our mail requests the same day we receive them. If you walk into our office, it should take just a few minutes depending on the number of customers at the counter. If you complete the Application for Certified Copies of Vital Records form and bring it with you, it will save time.

Form

(click on the link to download the form)

Application for Certified Copy of Vital Records