As of the start of the new year, Pennsylvania veterans and their families are eligible for free birth and death certificates.
The move is an expansion of benefits aimed at easing burdens during significant life events.
The Pennsylvania Department of Health announced the change as part of Act 137 of 2024, which was signed into law by Gov. Josh Shapiro in October.
Previously, fee waivers were limited to active service members and those honorably discharged.
The new legislation extends eligibility to all veterans discharged under conditions other than dishonorable, including those with general discharge classifications, according to state officials
Under the revised law, veterans, their spouses, or widow(er)s, as well as dependent children, can now receive up to 10 free copies of these vital records. Each copy normally costs $20.
Applicants must provide documentation of military status to qualify for the waiver.
“We’re proud to honor our veterans by making things easier for them and their families during life change events,” said Secretary of Health Dr. Debra Bogen. “This improvement to the law will expand this benefit to more Pennsylvanians who have chosen to bravely serve our country.”
The Pennsylvania Department of Health issued over 362,000 birth and death certificates in 2024.
Orders placed before December 30 will adhere to previous eligibility criteria, with no refunds for fees already paid, officials said.
For additional information on obtaining birth and death certificates, Pennsylvania residents can visit the Pennsylvania Department of Health website.
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