Why Publish in The New York Times?

An obituary in The New York Times is a meaningful way to honor someone’s life and reach a national audience. You can choose between a paid notice (print + online), a web-only listing, or—in rare cases—a staff-written editorial obituary for prominent individuals.

How to Place an Obituary: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Decide on Print vs. Online-Only

• Print + Online (Paid Obituary)

  • Published in the newspaper and on Legacy.com

• Online-Only Death Notice

  • Published only on NYTimes.com

  • Up to 500 words plus one photo

Step 2: Gather Your Information

You’ll need:

• Full obituary text (name, age, date of passing, personal history, survivors, service details)

• High-resolution photo (optional but recommended)

• Funeral home or representative contact information (for verification)

• Payment details to process your submission

Step 3: Submit Your Obituary

• For print and online:

  • Submit via Legacy.com

  • Call (888) 823-8554 or email [email protected] if you need help

• For online-only:

  • Use this NYTimes.com form

  • Approve the proof and pay securely online

Step 4: Meet the Deadlines

If you’re placing a print obituary, submit early. The New York Times observes strict cutoff times:

• Tue–Sat editions: Text by 4:30 p.m. the prior day; photos by 12 p.m.

• Sunday national edition: Text by 4:30 p.m. Friday; photos by 12 p.m. Friday

• Sunday New York edition: Text by 12:45 p.m. Saturday; photos by 12 p.m. Friday

• Monday edition: Text by 2 p.m. Sunday; photos by 12 p.m. Friday

Step 5: Understand Editorial Obituaries

The New York Times also publishes about 1,000 staff-written obituaries per year for notable public figures. These cannot be requested or purchased. They are assigned at the discretion of the Obituaries desk and written by NYT journalists.

Key Takeaway

If you want an obituary in print and online, submit through Legacy.com. Staff-written editorial obituaries are reserved for well-known individuals. Preparing your text, photos, and payment information in advance will ensure your loved one’s story is published accurately and on time.

Sources:

New York Times Obituary Submission and Cost

New York Times Editorial Obituaries

New York Times Paid Obituaries and Death Notices

New York Times Obituary Search

New York Times Overlooked