How Many Death Certificates Do I Need in Arkansas?
From Everendium · Last reviewed October 17, 2026
This guide covers Arkansas. For the general overview, see Getting Death Certificates: How Many You'll Need and Why.
Quick answer
Arkansas sets no required number of death certificates; the right count depends on how many banks, insurers, and agencies each need an original certified copy. What Arkansas does set is the price: Arkansas charges $10 for the first copy and $8 for each additional copy of the same record ordered at the same time. If no record is found, state law requires the department to keep $10 as a search fee. Online orders add a $5 processing fee and a $1.85 identity verification fee.
This is one of the most common practical questions after a death. Arkansas sets no required number, but it does set the price, which makes the count worth deciding before you order.
Is there a set number required by Arkansas?
No. The right number depends on how many banks, insurance companies, and government agencies in your situation each need their own certified copy, not on Arkansas law.
What will the copies cost in Arkansas?
Arkansas charges $10 for the first copy and $8 for each additional copy of the same record ordered at the same time. If no record is found, state law requires the department to keep $10 as a search fee. Online orders add a $5 processing fee and a $1.85 identity verification fee. At those rates, ten certified copies would cost $82 in state or agency fees, before any online-vendor or shipping charges.
Does it matter when I order in Arkansas?
The $8 price for additional copies applies only to copies of the same record ordered at the same time as the first.
Which institutions typically require one?
Banks and credit unions, life insurers, retirement account administrators, the Social Security Administration, and the Department of Veterans Affairs (if applicable) are common examples, though your own list depends on your accounts and assets. See our general guide on getting death certificates.
Can I use photocopies instead?
Generally no. Most institutions require an original certified copy, though it’s worth asking each one, since policies occasionally vary.
Where can I order more in Arkansas?
Local health units can handle requests in person, which can be faster than the mail. Details on each option are in our guide to getting a death certificate in Arkansas.
Fees and rules change - confirm current details with the Arkansas Department of Health Vital Records before you send payment.
Sources
About this review
Everendium Editorial Team · last reviewed October 17, 2026.
Fees, eligibility rules, and ordering options were checked on October 17, 2026 against the state's own published fee information, application forms, and county government pages listed in the sources. Death certificate fees change often, and some official pages were read only as search extracts, so the current fee should be confirmed on the agency's page before paying. Recommended for periodic re-verification. This is general information, not legal advice
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