How to apply for Nevada State Veterans Homes (Boulder City and Sparks): skilled nursing and memory care for veterans

Who it's for

Nevada runs two state veterans homes that give skilled nursing, rehabilitation, and memory care to eligible veterans, their spouses, and Gold Star parents. The Southern Nevada State Veterans Home in Boulder City, just outside Las Vegas, has 180 beds and offers 24-hour nursing, therapy, hospice, and Alzheimer's and dementia care. The Northern Nevada State Veterans Home in Sparks has 96 beds with private rooms, short-term rehab after a hospital stay, long-term care, and a secure memory-care community. Both are state-owned and supported by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, so the daily cost is far below nearby private nursing homes: the Boulder City home charges a veteran $125 a day, paid from Medicare, Medicaid, VA compensation, pension, VA per diem, or private funds. Call Admissions at the Boulder City home at 702-668-5806 or the Sparks home at 775-827-2955, or ask a Veterans Service Officer for help applying.

What you'll need

• DD-214 or other military discharge paperwork
• VA disability award letter, if rated
• Medical records supporting the need for skilled nursing care
• Financial information for the admission assessment (Medicare, Medicaid, VA, private pay)

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Nevada State Veterans Homes (Boulder City and Sparks): skilled nursing and memory care 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, vA disability award letter, if rated, medical records supporting the need for skilled nursing care — 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.

Step by step

1. Gather your DD-214 or other military discharge paperwork.
2. Collect your VA disability award letter if you have a VA disability rating.
3. Get medical records that show the need for skilled nursing care.
4. Gather financial information for the admission assessment, including Medicare, Medicaid, VA, or private pay details.
5. Apply online or call Admissions at the Boulder City home at 702-668-5806 or the Sparks home at 775-827-2955.
6. Ask a Veterans Service Officer for help if you want support with the application.

What to expect: After you apply, the home reviews your eligibility and your need for skilled nursing care. Admission also depends on bed availability. The Admissions office decides admission and explains daily rates and payment sources, which can differ by home and by VA rating. No renewal information was provided.