Who do I pay for the cremated remains?

The Healthcare Services Department will receive reimbursements or payments for services rendered to decedents for the following reasons: 

  1. Otero County placed a lien on the decedents real property to ensure the County receives reimbursement from the estate of the decedent, or
  2. Family members, or persons with special care and concern, will come forward to reimburse the County to obtain the cremated remains of the decedent, or be given the permission to place a permanent headstone on the decedent’s grave. 

At this time, we accept cashier's checks or money order to be paid directly to the Healthcare Service Department. Or, you may make cash or credit card payments at the Treasurer's office. There may be additional fees associated with payments at the Treasurer's office.

To determine the amount to reimburse the county for each decedent, please refer to the Indigent and Unclaimed Decedents List.

Show All Answers

1. How does my family obtain a death certificate?
2. How are Veterans honored?
3. Are there additional services for persons who received Social Security Benefits?
4. What about a death notice in the newspaper?
5. What does "indigent" mean?
6. What does "unclaimed" mean?
7. Who can apply for this program?
8. How does one qualify for the program?
9. How is the process started?
10. I signed an agreement with the funeral home but I cannot afford the services. What do I do?
11. Who is considered next of kin?
12. How long does the process take?
13. May the family hold a funeral / memorial service?
14. What happens to the cremated / unclaimed remains?
15. Who do I pay for the cremated remains?
16. Is this information up-to-date?