A death certificate is an official document that confirms a person's death. It typically includes important details such as the deceased's name, date of birth, date of death, and the cause of death. This document is usually issued by a government authority, such as a vital records office, and is essential for legal and administrative purposes. Death certificates are important for settling estates, claiming life insurance, and arranging funerals. They serve as a legal record that can be required for various processes, including obtaining burial permits and managing the deceased's financial affairs.