What Is a Certificate of Aliveness and Why Would I Need One?
A Certificate of Aliveness is an official document that shows a person was alive at the time it was signed or issued. Trusted agencies, like the Marin County Clerk, can provide this certificate.
You may need this certificate to receive:
- Pensions
- Annuities
- Other government or financial benefits
This certificate may also be called:
- Certificate of Aliveness
- Certificate of Existence
- Letter of Existence
- Life Certificate
- Proof of Life
- Acknowledgement of Pension
How Do I Get a Certificate of Aliveness?
- If an agency gave you a Certificate of Aliveness affidavit, bring it to the Marin County Clerk’s office. Staff will complete it for you.
- If you do not have an affidavit, the Marin County Clerk can create a Certificate of Aliveness for you to give to the agency that requested it.
Are There Any Fees?
No. As referenced in Government Code sections §6106 & §26858: "neither the State, nor any county or city, nor any public officer or body acting in his official capacity on behalf of the State, any county or city, including notaries public, shall receive any fee or compensation for services rendered in an affidavit, or application relating to the securing of pension, or the payment of a pension voucher, or any matter relating thereto."