Record Retrievals

What are they?

***Please note: Record retrieval services have been modified due to COVID-19 repository closures. Please check whether the repository you are interested in is currently receiving researchers.***

Photography, copying, and retrieval services for records at repositories throughout the New York City metropolitan area. This service is ideal for distance researchers who know exactly what record they're looking for, such as vital record copies from the New York City Municipal Archives. Cemetery photography is also available upon request.

Apostille retrieval services are also available with one-day turnaround (rush fees apply). ***Apostille service has been suspended until further notice.***

If you need a more detailed search and retrieval—for example, a search for a marriage certificate with an unconfirmed date or place—check out Genealogy Research.

Final product.

Record copies are available in digital or print formats:

  • Digital delivery: PDF, JPG, TIFF, and PNG available, with complete source citations and fast turnaround.

  • Printed and mailed: The best choice for certified records and apostilles. Copies are insured and can be mailed overnight (additional postage and handling fees apply).

Repositories.

Below is a selected list of repositories. Additional repositories available upon request:

  • New York City Municipal Archives

  • National Archives at New York City

  • Courthouses and court archives in New York City's five boroughs, from Surrogate's Courts to the Bronx County Courthouse

  • City Register Offices for Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, and the Bronx

  • Richmond County Clerk's Office (Staten Island land records)

  • New-York Historical Society

  • New York Public Library (all divisions)

  • Center for Jewish History, including the YIVO Archives

  • Columbia Rare Book & Manuscript Library

  • Morgan Library & Museum

  • Center for Brooklyn History, the recently merged Brooklyn Public Library and Brooklyn Historical Society

  • Queens Public Library

  • Local cemeteries, such as Green-Wood Cemetery and the New York City Marble Cemetery

  • One-day turnaround of New York and New Jersey vital records and apostilles for dual citizenship applications (rush fees apply). ***Apostille services have been suspended until further notice***

Rates.

Both digital and mailed record retrievals are offered at a discounted hourly rate. Additional expenses apply, such as record fees, rush fees, transportation costs, postage, and the like.