A death certificate is an official document that confirms a person's death. It typically includes important information 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 local health department or vital records office, and is required for legal purposes, including settling estates and claiming life insurance. The death certificate serves as a vital record and is essential for various administrative processes. It may also be used for genealogical research, helping families trace their ancestry. In many places, obtaining a death certificate involves completing specific forms and paying a fee.