More information is needed to size this header. You need to determine the tributary area coming down on this wall, basically what are the spans of the joists that bear on this wall (assuming that it's bearing). What are the Dead Loads (DL) and Live Loads (LL). DL are determined by actual weights of materials (joists, drywall, HVAC ducts, piping, roofing materials, HVAC equipment?). LL are determined by code. Do you have snow loads, is there a floor above, attic space, high pitched roof or lower pitched roof? International Residential Code has some prescriptive sizing for headers (see 2012 IRC Table R502.5(2) but you may want to consult an architect, engineer or contractor versed in structural engineering. Typically a site visit or accurate existing conditions plans are are required to determine new structural members. Don't forget that now the new header will transfer a higher amount of structural loads to new columns and then ultimately down to the foundation. In some cases including yours you may need to increase footing sizes where the columns bear.

Thanks for the replies!

Thanks for the replies!

I've attached a couple of pictures of the wall to be removed. The current door opening has a double 2x6 x 30" header which would be removed. All the 2x4 studs would be removed ,only leaving the studs on the end which would be a column. Header would span 8" from the current door opening to the studs on the end. The 2x6 ceiling joist above are 16" OC. and there are no braces on this wall above in the attic to the roof rafters. Below this wall in the basement is a Triple 2x8 with steel columns. On the other end of the kitchen they used a double 2x12 and that's because they didn't have the clearance to put headers above the windows

I found a local company that can make a double 2x8x8" header with a 7" x 1/2 plate bolted between.

Yes, a good old flitch beam. This beam assembly could be overkill and thus you're wasting money but then again to bring out an architect or engineer it might be the same cost as the beam. That said I would have someone check the basement beam that you mention. As you redistribute the weight you essentially take uniform loads and make them point loads. If by chance there is now a significant point load towards the center of this beam you could potentially have an issue.

Thanks again!

So , I've attached a couple of pictures of the beam in the basement. The two steel columns and triple 2X8's are directly below this wall. The triple 2x4 on the end of the wall does not fall out on the center column below. It's approx 24" from the second column and falls out where you see the 2x8's in the one picture. The floor joists are also 2x8 - 12" OC

Get a structural engineer. Since everything is opened up and visible, it'll take just a few minutes for them to assess the situation and tell you what needs to be done.