We currently have a ten (10) month processing turnaround time.
- If you submitted an application with a processing fee, the date your check or money order is cashed is the date we received your request, which helps you estimate the time left for processing.
- The turnaround times are estimations and are subject to fluctuate due to staffing availability.
- We are working diligently to reduce the turnaround times. If your request has not been processed after ten (10) months, please call us at (360) 236-4300. We appreciate your patience, thank you.
- We can only correct certificates for births, deaths, marriages or divorces that took place in Washington State.
Ordering or correcting a death certificate for the FEMA COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Program
You can use the Affidavit for Correction form and required proof for most corrections. The form summarizes how to make a correction.
- Download the most recent form:
- The form is also printed on the back of every certificate. Print the updated form if the revision date is before 1/15/2015.
How to correct a certificate with the Affidavit for Correction
For each application, you must submit the following:
- A completed and signed Affidavit for Correction (DOH 422-034) (English) (DOCX) or Declaración Jurada de Corrección (DOH 422-034) (Español) (PDF)
- Copy of your government issued photo identification card
- Proof of relationship, if required
- Any required supporting proof documents
By Mail
Center for Health Statistics
Attn: Corrections
P.O. Box 47814
Olympia, WA 98504-7814
Correcting certificates
Use the webpages below for the certificate you want to correct.
- For a child under 18
- For a person 18 or older
- Demographic changes
- Cause of death changes
Ordering a certificate with a correction request
- Send completed certificate order form with your correction request. Include all required documents referenced on the certificate application instruction page.
- Certificate will be issued after the correction has been processed.
Birth Certificate Application (en español)
Death Certificate Application (en español)
Marriage & Divorce Application (en español)
Exchanging a certificate with a correction request
If you currently have a certified copy of a certificate that was issued less than one (1) year ago, send in the certified copy of the certificate with your correction request; we will exchange the certificate at no charge. A copy of your photo ID and, if necessary, documentation verifying proof of relationship are required.
Contact us
Email us at VitalRecordsCorrections@doh.wa.gov.
Helpful links
Court-ordered name change
Gender change
Ordering certificates