Reporting for Non-EDRS Users
Death Reporting for non-EDRS users or when EDRS is not accessible:
- Deaths not reported using the EDRS must be done on a form known as the Preliminary Report of Death (PROD).
- Preliminary Report of Death forms are available by selecting Forms from the Related Information menu on the right hand side of this page. Hospitals and other institutions requiring large numbers of forms may order pre-printed forms from Vital Records by calling 800-439-5008, or by emailing EDRS@vdh.state.vt.us. Please provide your name, phone number and mailing address.
- Physicians should deliver the signed medical certification side of a PROD to the funeral director or to a family member if there is no funeral director involved, within 24 hours of the death. This may be faxed to the funeral director, but should not be sent directly to Vital Records.
- When both sides have been completed and signed, the PROD can be used for obtaining necessary Burial Transit and Cremation Permits.
- IMPORTANT - The PROD is not a final death certificate. Once complete it must be submitted to the VDH Vital Records office within 48 hours of the death to become a registered certificate.
- Funeral directors (or families if no funeral director is involved) may fax a completed and signed Preliminary Report of Death (both sides) directly to Vital Records within 48 hours of the death for data entry and registration in the EDRS. FAX: 802-651-1787.
- Certified copies of Death Certificates can be obtained from town clerks in either the Town of Residence or Town of Death, but please call ahead to ensure they have received the certificate. We will strive to have copies available to clerks as soon as possible, but be aware there may occasionally be some delays.