Burial and Cremation Assistance
Providing Compassionate Support for End-of-Life Needs
The Burial and Cremation Assistance Program is funded and administered by the Washoe County Human Services Agency (HSA) to ensure that individuals who pass away in Washoe County are laid to rest with dignity. This program helps families, friends, or responsible parties who lack the financial means to cover end-of-life expenses by offering direct financial support for burial or cremation services.
How We Support Families
Dignity and Compassion in Difficult Times: The program ensures that every eligible individual receives a respectful burial or cremation, regardless of their financial situation. This support helps ease the emotional and financial stress on loved ones during a time of loss.
Financial Relief for Families: Assistance is available when responsible parties cannot meet the cost of burial or cremation. In certain cases, Washoe County may provide support upfront with repayment required, ensuring that services are provided promptly while maintaining accountability.
Serving Residents and Non-Residents: The program serves both Washoe County residents and non-residents who became ill and passed away within Washoe County, provided eligibility criteria are met.
Eligibility
Individuals must meet the following requirements to qualify for Burial and Cremation Assistance:
Residency: Must be a Washoe County resident, or a non-Nevada resident who became ill and passed away within Washoe County.
Financial and Household Requirements: Must meet established income and asset limits for household size, with verification of household composition and financial need.
Responsible Relatives: Consideration may be given to responsible relatives, as defined by Nevada Revised Statutes 428.070, who may still qualify for assistance even if their income or assets exceed program limits. In such cases, Washoe County may cover burial or cremation costs, with repayment required.
How Referrals Are Made
Referrals for Burial and Cremation Assistance can be submitted by:
Funeral Homes: Licensed funeral service providers can initiate referrals on behalf of families.
Public Administrator: The Washoe County Public Administrator may refer cases for eligible individuals.
Coroner: The Washoe County Coroner’s Office can submit referrals when applicable.
Relatives or Friends of the Deceased: Family members or close friends may also request assistance on behalf of the deceased.
How to Apply
To apply for Burial and Cremation Assistance, call (775) 328-2700 to speak with one of our program team members. They will provide guidance on eligibility, documentation requirements, and the next steps in the application process.
Applications may be initiated by funeral homes, community partners, or by relatives and friends of the deceased.