If a family member has passed away, you might need a copy of his death certificate for probate purposes, to settle the estate or for tax purposes. You might need to present a copy of the death certificate to the Social Security Administration or the agency that administers Medicaid in his state if your family member received such benefits. You can purchase a copy of a death certificate from the New Mexico Department of Health, either in person or online.
Instructions
1. Visit the New Mexico Department of Health website and download the form used to request a certified copy of a death certificate (see Resources).
2. Fill out the application completely. Incomplete applications will be returned to the sender. If you do not want to print out and complete an application, you can simply write a letter including the following information: the name of the decedent, the date of the decedent's death, the city and county in which the death occurred, the decedent's Social Security number (if you know it), the name of the mortuary that handled the final arrangements, your name and mailing address, your relationship to the decedent, the reason you need a copy of the death certificate and your signature.
3. Make a legible photocopy of your state issued identification card or driver's license.
4. Mail the completed application form, photocopy of your identification and a check or money order for $5 (the amount as of November 2010) to:
New Mexico Vital Records and Health Statistics
P.O. Box 26110
1105 St. Francis Dr.
Santa Fe, NM 87502-6110
Tags: copy death, copy death certificate, death certificate, Department Health, family member