Death Records

Cost

Certified copies are available for $15.00 to persons of entitlement. We accept cash, checks, money orders, cashiers checks, and credit cards. There is a 3% card fee.

Non-certified, plain paper copies of death records from Cerro Gordo County only are available and will be stamped "Not For Legal Purposes."

Available Records

Deaths from 1954 to the current date are available electronically in all counties in Iowa, regardless of where the event occurred. Our county death records begin in 1880 and run to the present day.

Vital Records Availability

Instructions

You will need a valid photo ID or driver's license, be at least 18 years old and have entitlement.

Vital Record Application

Ways to Apply

• Apply in person.
  • Make sure to bring your valid ID or driver’s license and a money order (payable to Cerro Gordo County Recorder) or credit/debit card for payment. There is a 3% card fee.
     
• Applying by mail.
  • If applying by mail, you must fill out the application with your signature notarized, and we need a copy of your valid ID or driver's license and a money order (payable to the Cerro Gordo County Recorder).
    • If you would like Cerro Gordo County to process your request, please mail your notarized completed application and payment to:
      
      Cerro Gordo County Recorder
      220 N. Washington Ave.
      Mason City, IA 50401
       
• Apply by phone or online through the IDHHS and VitalChek.
  • Visit the IDHHS website for instructions.

Identification

If you do not have a valid driver's license or ID, please provide alternative identification. View Identity Documents for acceptable forms of alternative IDs.

Entitlement

Direct and Tangible Interest