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GARY, IN – The Gary Health Department is pleased to announce the launch of a new online system for requesting paper copies of vital records, including birth and death certificates. This digital service aims to improve accessibility and convenience for residents requiring these essential documents, particularly for those who have moved out of state or need a State of Indiana Real ID.
"No matter how far life's journey takes you, for Gary citizens, home is home,” said Mayor Eddie Melton, “With this new digital service, we're ensuring our citizens can stay connected and that their documents will be accessible.”
Gary is among only three cities in Indiana—alongside East Chicago and Fishers—that maintain municipal-level health departments rather than solely county-level agencies. While most county health departments throughout Indiana already offer digital access for vital records, Gary is now advancing its services with this online option, becoming the first of the three municipal health departments to implement such a system.
“In today's digital age, residents expect government services to be accessible and user-friendly,” said Chief Information Officer Michael Ofori. “The City of Gary is committed to creating modern digital experiences that deliver services efficiently and securely."
Standard requests for birth and death records can now be completed online, however special cases such as name changes or amendments to vital records will still require the mail-in process.
"With approximately 70 vital records requests processed daily, this new online system will significantly enhance our ability to serve the community efficiently," said Veronica Collins, Executive Director of the Gary Health Department. “This represents a significant step forward in our ongoing commitment to modernizing healthcare services for everyone we serve.”
Key Facts - Vital Records Online Requests:
· Processing fee: $12.95 per request.
· Document fees: $15.00 per birth certificate copy or $12.00 per death certificate copy.
· Maximum of 15 copies allowed per request.
· Shipping options begin at $10.00 for FedEx ground (no overnight or rush service shipping available).
· Once processed, citizens will receive paper copies sent via USPS ground.
· Access available at: Garyin.portal.opengov.com. Users must create an account to order records.
· Processing time: 5-7 days.
Individuals requesting vital records for someone else must provide proof of immediate family relationship (sibling, parent, or grandparent).
The online system is available to all requestors, including those living out of state or overseas. Complete requirements and the online request portal can be accessed on the Gary Health Department website at https://www.gary.gov/health-and-human-services.
For additional questions or information, contact the Gary Health Department at (219) 882 –5565 or visit https://www.gary.gov/health-and-human-services/vital-records.
Media Contact:
Erika Blackwell
Chief Communications Officer
Eblackwell@gary.gov | (219) 806-6489
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