Recorder Death Certificates

How to request and receive a certified death certificate

Cost

Certified copies are $15.00 each. We do not accept personal checks.

Instructions

You will need a valid ID or driver's license, be at least 18 years old and have entitlement.

If you are applying for a certified copy through the mail, you must fill out the application with your signature notarized, and we need a copy of your valid ID or driver's license and a money order (made out to the Pottawattamie County Recorder and signed by remitter). Please send everything to the Pottawattamie County Recorder at 227 S 6th St. Room 251 Council Bluffs, IA 51501.

If you have any questions, please call (712) 328-5612 Option #4. 

Application

Identification

If you do not have a valid driver's license or ID, please provide alternative identification. View Identity Documents for acceptable forms of alternative IDs.

Entitlement

Direct and Tangible Interest

Records Available

Certified Copies: 

Certified copies are available from our office if:

  • The event took place in Iowa between 1954 - Present
    • Certified copies can be obtained through any Iowa County Recorder's Office or the State Office for events during these dates.
  • The event took place between 1880 - 1921 and 1941 - 1953*
    • And the event occurred in Pottawattamie County

Otherwise, the record is at the State office. Request a record through the Iowa Department of Public Health website by clicking "Request Record" below.

*We do not have records from July 1, 1921, through June 30, 1941. They are only at the State Office.

Request Record

Photocopies: 

They are $5.00 cash/each. 

Photocopies are available if the death event occurred:

  • In Pottawattamie County
  • Between 1880 - June 30, 1921, or July 1, 1941 - Present

The Record will be noted, "Not for Legal Purposes." 

Our Contact Information: 

Pottawattamie County Recorder 
227 S 6th St., Room 251
Council Bluffs, IA 51501

Phone: (712) 328-5612 Option #4

Death Record Office Hours: 8 am - 4 pm; Monday - Friday unless there is a holiday. 

Phone (712) 328-5612
Fax: (712) 328-4738
Hours Monday - Friday

8:00am to 3:30pm
Real Estate Filings, Marriage Applications, Passports

8:00am to 4:00pm
Boat, Snowmobile, ATV, Birth, Death & Marriage Records
Location Pottawattamie County Courthouse
Second Floor
227 S 6th St
Council Bluffs, IA 51501