How to Find South Carolina Death Records

Statewide registration of deaths began in 1915 in South Carolina. Counties have copies of these records.

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Next Step: When did the death occur?

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 * Choose a time period to search for your ancestor's death record:


 * Deaths before 1915
 * Deaths from 1915 to the present
 * I don't know when the death is


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Deaths before 1915

 * 1816-1990: South Carolina Deaths and Burials, 1816-1990 - index

Before 1915, no deaths were recorded by the county or state. The cities of Charleston, Georgetown, Spartanburg, and Union City are exceptions. Learn more. In most cases, you must search substitute records to locate your ancestor’s death date and place.

Return to top: Choose another death year

Deaths from 1915 thru the present
The state of South Carolina began recording deaths in 1915.

STEP ONE: Find Death Information
For deaths that exist during this time period, try the following databases. Try each link.

STEP TWO: Obtain the Certificate
If the image was not included in the index entry above, you can order a copy of the death record for a fee from the following locations:

Restrictions for persons who died within the last 50 years: To obtain a copy of the death certificate for those who died within the last 50 years, you must be:


 * The immediate family member of the person on the certificate (or one of their legal representatives)
 * A person who demonstrates a direct and tangible interest when information is needed to determine a personal or a property right
 * Anyone who has legal interest in the certificate
 * NOTE: A copy of the death record cannot be obtained by anyone except those listed above until 50 years have passed from the date of the death.

Death certificates from 1915 to 1955 are available on microfilm through the Family History Library:.

'''If you do not want to order the death record, there are other records with death information you can search. ''' Return to top: Choose another death year

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