How to apply for Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemeteries (Fernley and Boulder City): no-cost burial for veterans

Who it's for

Nevada runs two state veterans cemeteries: the Northern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Fernley, about 35 miles east of Reno, and the Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Boulder City, about 26 miles from Las Vegas. Veterans are buried at no charge. That includes the plot, opening and closing of the grave, a concrete vault, a headstone, and perpetual care; mortuary fees are not included. A spouse or eligible dependent can be buried for a $450 fee, which can change. Eligibility follows rules similar to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs national cemeteries, and the cemetery checks eligibility. You can pre-register at no cost so eligibility is settled ahead of need, though plots are not assigned in advance. Call the Fernley cemetery at 775-575-4441 or the Boulder City cemetery at 702-486-5920.

What you'll need

• DD-214 or other military discharge paperwork
• Marriage certificate for spouse eligibility

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemeteries (Fernley and Boulder City): no-cost burial for veterans. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need dD-214 or other military discharge paperwork, marriage certificate for spouse eligibility — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.