In Nevada, more people choose cremation than anywhere else in the U.S. While nationally, the cremation rate is around 60%, more than 80% of Nevada residents make this choice.
How much is the cheapest cremation in Las Vegas, and are there options for free cremation in Nevada? We will answer these questions and describe the different types of cremation near you in Las Vegas, along with resources that are available to mitigate costs or get free cremation services.
The Types and Costs of Cremation Near Me in Las Vegas
In Las Vegas, there are cremation options available, each with its own characteristics and costs. Understanding the differences between these options can help you make an informed decision that meets your preferences and budget.
Traditional Cremation
A traditional cremation service in Las Vegas is similar to a traditional funeral service. It typically includes the preparation and embalming of the body, a viewing ceremony for loved ones at a wake, and a memorial ceremony. Depending on your preferences, this might also include the burial of the remains or returning them to the family.
Embalming is not required by law, but it helps preserve the body for viewing. Funeral homes generally will not hold viewing ceremonies unless embalming is included. The average cost of a traditional cremation, viewing, and memorial service is $6,280, according to the National Funeral Directors Association. The cost of burial, burial plots, and markers or placing the remains in a columbarium vault will be an additional fee.
Memorial Cremation
A memorial cremation is like a traditional cremation without a viewing. The body is cremated shortly after death, and a ceremony is held at a later date. Many families choose this option, especially if family members have to travel to attend.
The remains are commonly returned to the family before the ceremony in case they want to display them or scatter them as part of the memorial service. The average cost for a cremation and memorial service is between $3,000 and $4,000.
Direct Cremation
Direct cremation is the most affordable type of cremation. The body is transported to a funeral home or crematorium, where cremation takes place. The remains are then returned to the family in a simple container. There is no memorial or service afterward.
Costs for direct cremation are typically included in a flat fee, which covers associated fees. The average cost for a direct cremation in Nevada depends on where you live. Las Vegas is one of the more expensive cities, but fees are still lower than in many other parts of the country. As you can see, the average cremation cost in Las Vegas is about $1,500.
| CITY | AVERAGE CREMATION COST |
| Boulder City | $1,464 |
| Carson City | $1,579 |
| Henderson | $1,441 |
| Las Vegas | $1,521 |
| Mesquite | $1,444 |
| North Las Vegas | $1,444 |
| Reno | $1,163 |
Basic cremation is an affordable, simple solution. Family members are not present during the cremation, and the remains are returned in a plastic or cardboard container meant for temporary use. Families may wish to add a decorative urn for a longer-lasting solution.
What Are the Rules for Cremation in Nevada?
The cremation industry is regulated, so when you go through the cremation process, there are certain rules and requirements that must be met.
Before Cremation
Before cremation can occur, the county health district or medical examiner must issue a permit. Without this permit, cremation cannot proceed. This is done to ensure there is no evidence of foul play.
In most cases, there is a 24-hour waiting period before the permit is issued. Family members are typically asked to positively identify the body.
The Cremation Process
Cremations in Nevada may only be performed by a licensed funeral director or crematory operator. The cremation must also take place within a licensed facility.
The deceased is typically placed in a cardboard or wooden container. Each body is cremated separately to avoid the comingling of remains. The cremated remains must also be promptly labeled with the deceased’s name and identification.
After Cremation
After cremation, the remains are returned to the family and may be kept, scattered, or buried. Unless a separate urn is purchased, the remains will be returned in a temporary container.
Nevada does not have any specific laws about the dispersal of ashes. This allows families to scatter ashes in most locations by following a few simple rules, such as:
- Private land: You must get permission from the property owner.
- Public lands, such as state or local parks: Ask the governing body first, as there are different rules.
- National parks: There are four national parks in Nevada, including Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument in the Las Vegas area and Lake Mead National Recreation Area to the east. Each national park has its own rules, so you will want to check with the Park Ranger’s office first.
- Water: You can disperse remains in the ocean as long as you are at least three nautical miles from the coastline. Scattering remains on public waterways such as lakes, and rivers are also permitted as long as you are away from shore.
Resources to Help with Paying for Cremation
Some federal, state, and local organizations may be able to help with the cost of cremation.
Does the State of Nevada Pay for Cremation?
No, the state does not help pay for cremation. However, there are funds available at the county level for indigent families that cannot afford to pay for the service.
Clark County Program to Help Pay for Cremation and Burial Costs
Clark County will reimburse contracted funeral homes or crematories for the cremation or burial of indigent residents who die within Clark County and meet eligibility guidelines. Referrals need to come from funeral homes or crematoriums, so you will want to coordinate with a cremation provider and ask about indigent burials.
Such funds are typically available only to those who fall under the federal poverty guideline and do not have available assets to pay for cremation. Residents will have to demonstrate proof of income and assets to qualify.
Indigent cremations and burials typically do not include the return of the remains. Remains are typically buried in unmarked cemetery plots.
Government Programs to Help Pay for Cremation and Burial Costs
Several government programs are available to help defray costs if you qualify:
- Veterans Administration: The VA offers financial assistance for veterans and reimbursement to families for some cremation or burial costs. Families will need to pay for services and then seek reimbursement.
- Social Security Administration: SSA provides a lump sum benefit of $255 and monthly survivor benefits for those who are eligible based on years of service.
- Federal Emergency Management Agency: FEMA provides financial assistance if someone dies as a result of a natural disaster.
- U.S. Department of the Interior Indian Affairs – Division of Human Services: Financial assistance for Native Americans who do not qualify under other government programs.
- Nevada Department of Health and Human Services Victims of Crime: This state program provides financial assistance to victims of violent crimes.
Charities That Help with Cremation
There are also programs available through various charities and religious organizations throughout Nevada. Some churches and religious organizations will help.
Other resources include:
- The TEARS Foundation: Helps with financial support for families who have lost a child.
- Carson’s Village: Helps families navigate the cremation and funeral process at no cost.
- The Patient Advocate Foundation (PAD) Provides grants for those who died from acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), toxic shock syndrome (TSS), Sepsis, or other afflictions.
- American Red Cross: Some chapters may offer financial assistance or support for military families or in case of a disaster.
Nevada Free Cremation
Unless a family is considered indigent and can prove significant financial distress, there are no state or local programs that provide free cremation. However, you can get a free or low-cost cremation near you in Las Vegas by making a whole-body donation.
A whole-body donation is an important contribution to the advancement of medical science that also eliminates cremation costs. United Tissue Network (UTN) pays 100% of the expenses associated with cremation, including:
- Removal from the place of passing
- Safely transporting the body
- Placement with a legitimate scientific research or education facility
- Cremation after research has been completed
- Return of remains to family members if requested
Whole Body Donation: A Priceless Gift
When you give this priceless gift, you are directly helping doctors and medical researchers discover better ways to treat illness and afflictions, including cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and HIV. Past donations have helped train thousands of future doctors and provided significant breakthroughs in the treatments of chronic diseases.
By choosing to donate a body to science, you can take comfort in knowing that your donation is helping generations of others and creating a legacy for your loved one.
Registering for Whole Body Donation
You can pledge yourself or register a loved one for a whole body donation at any time or as end-of-life draws near. This process is straightforward. Simply fill out the information questionnaire on the UTN website. UTN accepts nearly all donations, including those of advanced age or with conditions like cancer or dementia.
Keeping researchers and medical professionals safe is critical, so disqualifiers include communicable diseases such as HIV or hepatitis. UTN will also review the patient’s medical and social history in confidence and may do some preliminary testing.
United Tissue Network (UTN) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and does not profit from whole-body donations. Accredited by The American Association of Tissue Banks (AATB), UTN treats families with the utmost respect and compassion. Since 2009, UTN has assisted more than 12,000 families in making this meaningful end-of-life decision and helping advance medical science.
Dispelling Myths and Misconceptions About Cremation
Attitudes about cremations have changed dramatically over the decades. Yet, misconceptions remain. Here are some of the lingering myths about cremation.
Myth: Cremation Is Disrespectful
This is a subjective belief, but cremation can be a perfectly respectful way to honor a loved one. Many people choose cremation for various reasons, and it can still be accompanied by a memorial service.
Myth: Cremation Isn’t Allowed by Some Religious Groups
While some religions have traditionally preferred burial, cremation is becoming more widely accepted. It’s always best to check with a religious leader for specific guidelines. Some religions now prefer cremation rather than burial.
Myth: Cremation involves burning the body
While fire is used to create intense heat, the body is not burned. The chamber reaches an extremely high temperature, which breaks the body down into bone fragments. Although the remains are often called ashes, there really is no ash. The remains are bone fragments that are pulverized to final form and appear like sand.
Myth: Cremation Is Environmentally Harmful
Cremation does use energy, but modern cremation systems use advanced filtration systems to minimize any environmental impact from gases released during the cremation process. Many crematoriums offer eco-friendly options, such as sustainable materials for cremation and remains. Cremation is generally better for the environment than traditional embalming and burial in a casket.
Frequently Asked Questions — FAQs
What is the least expensive way to be cremated?
The least expensive way to be cremated in Nevada is a direct cremation, which typically costs between $700 and $1,500. This includes the cremation itself, with no additional services or products.
What is the difference between a pure cremation and a direct cremation?
Direct cremation and pure cremation both involve a simple and low-cost option. In fact, the terms are often used interchangeably. A pure cremation may offer more eco-friendly options, such as a biodegradable container and minimizing energy use.
How long does cremation take in Las Vegas?
In the Las Vegas area, the cremation process typically takes between two to four hours to complete once all necessary paperwork and identification have been taken care of. The actual time can vary slightly depending on the crematory and workload.
Call a Donor Service Coordinator at United Tissue Network today at 877-738-6111 to learn more about whole-body donation.