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. During this process, HSA provides assistance when eligibility requirements are met, including financial, residency, and the availability of prior resources.
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 well as out‑of‑state individuals who “fell sick” in Washoe County and passed away, provided eligibility criteria are met. Non‑Nevada residents will be referred to their county of residence.
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: In some circumstances, relatives who are legally responsible for final arrangements may be asked to repay the County if they have financial ability to do so. When household resources are not enough to cover costs, assistance may still be provided.
How to Apply
To apply for Burial and Cremation Assistance, please request assistance with a Washoe County funeral home of your choice. Applications may only be initiated by licensed funeral homes. Once a referral is received you will be contacted.