Death Records
Cost
Certified copies are available for $15.00 to persons of entitlement. Must pay with cash or check, we can only accept credit/debit cards when in person.
Non-certified, plain paper copies of death records from Shelby 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. Deaths from 1953 & older are available only at county level. Our county death records begin in 1896 and run to the present day. Gap in county level records that are only available from the state: 1921 - 1941 and January 1903 - November 1906.
Instructions
You will need a valid photo ID or driver's license, be at least 18 years old and have entitlement.
Ways to Apply
- Apply in person.
- Make sure to bring your valid ID or driver’s license and cash, or a check or money order (payable to Shelby County Recorder) or credit/debit card for payment.
- 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 check or money order (payable to the Shelby County Recorder).
- If you would like Shelby County to process your request, please mail your notarized completed application and payment to:
Shelby County Recorder
612 Court St.
Harlan, IA 51537
- If you would like Shelby County to process your request, please mail your notarized completed application and payment to:
- 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 check or money order (payable to the Shelby County Recorder).
- 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
