What is a fetal death certificate?
A fetal death certificate is an official legal document that includes information from a fetal death record. In Pennsylvania, a fetal death certificate is printed on specialized security paper that contains a raised seal.
Our office only issues fetal death certificates for fetal deaths that were registered in Pennsylvania since 1906. Please note that fetal deaths are not registered if the fetus death occurs prior to 16 weeks gestation.
If you are interested in obtaining a stillborn birth certificate instead of a fetal death certificate, visit Ordering a Stillborn Birth Certificate.
How do I apply for a fetal death certificate?
For in-person services: You may order a fetal death certificate in person (8 am to 4 pm weekdays, excluding state holidays) at one of our six Vital Records Branch Offices. However, all orders are transferred to our New Castle office for processing. Bring along a completed Application for a Fetal Death Certificate or complete an application upon your arrival. Payment must be made by check or money order payable to "Vital Records". Cash and credit cards are not accepted.
For mail services: You may complete an Application for a Fetal Death Certificate and mail it to the address listed below. All certificates are mailed using First Class Mail®. Applications should be mailed to the following address:
Division of Vital Records
Death Certificate Processing Unit
PO Box 1528
New Castle PA, 16103
Who can apply for a fetal death certificate?
You must meet the following requirements to receive a fetal death certificate.
- You must complete an Application for a Fetal Death Certificate.
- You must provide valid identification.
- You must sign your application.
- You must be an eligible applicant. Eligible applicants must be 18 years of age or older, and include the following:
- Parent.
- Brother, sister, half-brother, half-sister
- Grandparent or great-grandparent
- Power of Attorney
- Attorney or legal representative (must provide supporting documentation)
- Extended family members who indicate a direct relationship to the decedent (documentation may be required)
How long does it take to get a fetal death certificate?
Fetal death certificates take up to 4 weeks to issue once your application is received at our New Castle office.
What is the cost for a fetal death certificate?
The cost for each fetal death certificate is $20 regardless of the quantity that you order. This fee is established in accordance with Pennsylvania's Administrative Code of 1929. Payment is deposited upon receipt of your application and is not refundable.
Please submit payment in the form of a check or money order made payable to "VITAL RECORDS". Cash is not accepted.
To qualify for the fee waiver for members of the U.S. Armed Forces, you or your spouse (includes widow/widower if not remarried) must be in active service or was honorably discharged from service. The fee is only waived if you are the parent of the fetus.
Where can I get more information?
If you have questions about Pennsylvania fetal death certificates, contact the Division of Vital Records using one of the following methods:
- Online contact form – Allow two to three business days for a response.
- Call 724-656-3100 or toll-free at 844-228-3516, Monday through Friday 7:15 am to 10 pm.