Top 5 Free Methods to Find Obituaries Online

Tracing family history is a common pursuit for many. In the past, discovering obituaries required visiting libraries or requesting access through government offices, which could be time-consuming. Today, internet resources simplify this process significantly. While some obituary searches may require payment, there are many free options available. Using online platforms, you can efficiently locate obituaries and learn about your ancestors without any cost.

Below are effective ways to search for obituaries on your own without spending money.

• One of the easiest methods is exploring online newspaper archives. Many websites provide free access to historical obituary listings. Platforms like legacy.com allow you to search by the deceased's name, location, or date of death for free.
• Funeral homes often publish death notices online, which can be accessed through sites like obitsforlife.com. Keep in mind, these notices are typically from participating funeral providers.

You can also utilize the Social Security Death Index (SSDI) via free platforms like genealogy.com or ancestry.com. Search by name, date of birth, or last residence to locate relevant records.

Checking local city or state death records offers another free approach. These archives often contain records dating back centuries, allowing access to early 20th-century obituaries.

National archives are valuable for vital records collection, including birth and death certificates. They often link to other free obituary search resources, simplifying your research process.