VA Burial Benefits: VA burial and memorial benefits may be available to veterans who were released from active duty under circumstances other than dishonourable, as well as to their spouses and dependent children in the case of a service member’s death while on active duty. Interestingly, a veteran can still qualify even if they died before their spouse or dependent child.
Enlisted troops whose active service began after September 7, 1980, and officers whose active duty began after October 16, 1981, must serve a minimum of 24 consecutive months or the entire length of active duty, with some exceptions, to be eligible. Active duty on its own cannot grant eligibility for training. Reservists and members of the National Guard, as well as their families, are qualified if, at the time of death, they were receiving or would have received retired pay upon reaching the required age.
What burial benefits does the VA provide?
The National Cemetery Scheduling Office of the VA or local national cemetery directors confirm burial eligibility. Usually, it is sufficient to have a copy of the veteran’s discharge papers that lists the duration(s) of active duty and the nature of the discharge. A copy of the deceased’s death certificate and documentation proving the person’s link to the veteran may occasionally be needed.
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VA decisions about eligibility for national cemetery burial or other memorial benefits are subject to appeal by veterans and other claimants for burial benefits.
For additional information regarding VA burial and memorial benefits, visit www.cem.va.gov or call 1-800-827-1000 to reach the closest national cemetery.
Incorporation into VA National Cemetery
Burial in a VA national cemetery is free of charge for qualified Veterans, their spouses, and dependents. This covers the headstone or marker, the gravesite, the grave liner, the opening and closure of the grave, and ongoing maintenance. In addition, veterans are given military funeral honors and a burial flag. Family members can request certificates of presidential memorial.
VA runs 131 national cemeteries that offer several options for both cremated and casked remains. For availability, check with the particular cemetery or go to www.cem.va.gov.
The National Cemetery Scheduling Office is the contact for making burial arrangements. The VA typically does not perform weekend funerals, and gravesite reservations are not possible unless they fall under one of the earlier reservation programs.
Individual graves
Send a copy of the veteran’s discharge paperwork and VA Form 40-1330 to the Memorial Programs Service to request a headstone or marker in a private cemetery. Before placing an order, make sure the cemetery will accept the headstone or marker provided by the government.
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Flags for burial
- VA offers a burial flag for Americans to honor:
- Veterans who served after January 31, 1955, or during a war.
- Veterans who served in the National Guard or Reserve are eligible for retired pay.
- Selected Reserve members or ex-members who fulfilled certain requirements.
Reimbursement for funeral costs
For funeral costs, VA will reimburse up to $2,000 if the veteran’s death was related to their service. VA will sometimes pay for transportation expenses to the closest national cemetery when gravesites are available.
Military funeral honors
Upon request, the Department of Defense offers military funeral rites, which include playing “Taps” and folding and presenting the American flag. Funeral directors are responsible for arranging honors; the VA can help with interment at national cemeteries.
