An AUTHORIZED CERTIFIED COPY of a death record may be required to obtain death benefits, claim insurance proceeds, notify social security and obtain other services related to an individual's identity. Section 103526 of the California Health and Safety Code restricts who is allowed to obtain an authorized certified copy of a death record. When requesting an authorized certified copy, a sworn statement will be required.

Those who are not authorized need to apply for an INFORMATIONAL CERTIFIED COPY with the words "INFORMATIONAL, NOT A VALID DOCUMENT TO ESTABLISH IDENTITY" imprinted across the face of the copy.