Death Records

Clay County has access to death records of any person who died anywhere in Minnesota back to 1997 or any person who died in Clay County back to the 1872. For death records outside of Clay County before 1997, contact the county registrar where the person died.

The Minnesota Historical Society maintains a death record index statewide for most historical deaths. You can search the index online at the Minnesota Historical Society.

Death Certificate Request - Certified Copy


  • In Person - Clay County Government Center - 3510 12th Ave S, Moorhead, MN 56560

  • By Mail - Clay County Recorder - PO Box 280, Moorhead, MN 56560

    • Complete a Death Certificate Application form (PDF) indicating you are an authorized requestor. 
    • Show identification and sign the completed application in front of a notary. Have the notary sign the application and apply their notary seal.
    • Mail the completed and notarized application along with the corresponding fees.

  • By Fax (credit card* only)

    • Complete a Death Certificate Application form (PDF) indicating you are an authorized reqeustor. 
    • Show identification and sign the completed application in front of a notary. Have the notary sign the application and apply their notary seal.
    • Fax the completed and notarized application to 866-908-2452. 

                  *A convenience fee will be charged for credit card transactions