CFR > Title 25 - Indians > CHAPTER I—BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR > SUBCHAPTER C—PROBATE (parts 15 to 18) > PART 15—PROBATE OF INDIAN ESTATES, EXCEPT FOR MEMBERS OF THE OSAGE NATION AND THE FIVE CIVILIZED TRIBES > SUBPART B—Starting the Probate Process (§15.101 to §15.108) > 15.104—Does the agency need a death certificate to prepare a probate file?

15.104—Does the agency need a death certificate to prepare a probate file?

(a) Yes. You must provide us with a certified copy of the death certificate if a death certificate exists. If necessary, we will make a copy from your certified copy for our use and return your copy.
(b) If a death certificate does not exist, you must provide an affidavit containing as much information as you have concerning the deceased, such as:
(1) The State, city, reservation, location, date, and cause of death;
(2) The last known address of the deceased;
(3) Names and addresses of others who may have information about the deceased; and
(4) Any other information available concerning the deceased, such as newspaper articles, an obituary, death notices, or a church or court record.