Where Do You Start Looking for Vital Records?

Even for those with experience, there can be some challenges involved in the process of locating vital records. The greatest challenge is determining the general area of the country in which the event took place. So, if you already have narrowed down the list of counties where such an event probably took place, you're off to a good start. If the area is too broad, it can quickly get expensive, as there is often a nominal fee to pay at each city, county, or state office where you make a vital records request. This can quickly add up during a broad search.

The Internet Era Simplification of Vital Records Searches

The vast majority of vital records databases are now available online. This can not only speed things up, but save you days of travel. So if the government agency from which you wish to make a vital records request has put its database online, you can get quick access to the information you need from anywhere. Interestingly, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention keeps a list of such online resources on its site ( http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/w2w.htm ). So you can start your search here before driving off to any particular location to look for vital records.

Other Online Locations for Vital Resources

Some private entities have contracted with many government resource agencies to help simplify the research process by making it more consistent from one government entity to the next. So, for example, you can go to a website such as LexisNexis' www.vitalchek.com to order various vital resources from various cities, counties, and states, as permitted by law. Of course, these private entities are there to earn a profit, so you can expect to pay some fees for each service request.

Many people start their searches at www.archives.com because it offers a lot of useful information that is particularly suited for those interested in genealogy. There are more than one billion records available here. Additionally, so many research experts use this site that it has become a popular place to interact and exchange research tips. As you might suspect, this site must earn a profit, so they charge a membership fee for database access and other services. However, you can sign up for a seven-day trial.

Regardless of why you're locating vital records, the Internet is usually the best place to start these days. However, you still benefit from first having an idea of where the vital records you seek may be located.