When a veteran passes away, their service to our nation continues to be honored through various burial and memorial benefits provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). These benefits are designed to recognize the veteran’s sacrifice and provide support to their families during a difficult time. This comprehensive guide will explore the range of VA burial and memorial benefits available to veterans and their loved ones.
Understanding VA Burial Benefits
VA burial benefits are a way for the nation to show its gratitude to those who have served. These benefits can help ease the financial burden of funeral and burial expenses for veterans’ families.
Eligibility for VA Burial Benefits
To receive VA burial benefits, a veteran must meet certain eligibility criteria:
- Discharged from active duty under conditions other than dishonorable
- Completed at least one enlistment or initial obligated period of active duty
- Died while on active duty, active duty for training, or inactive duty training
Special Cases
- Veterans who died while receiving VA care
- Veterans whose death was service-connected
- Veterans who were receiving VA pension or compensation at the time of death
Types of VA Burial Benefits
The VA offers several types of burial benefits, each designed to meet different needs and circumstances.
1. VA National Cemeteries
Veterans can be buried in one of the 155 national cemeteries across the country.
Key features:
- No cost for the gravesite, opening and closing of the grave, and perpetual care
- Available to eligible veterans, spouses, and dependent children
- Some national cemeteries offer cremation sites
2. Veterans Burial Allowance
This is a financial benefit to help cover burial and funeral costs.
Benefit amounts:
- Service-connected death: up to $2,000
- Non-service-connected death: up to $796 for burial expenses and $796 for a plot
3. VA Headstones and Markers
The VA provides headstones or grave markers at no cost to the family.
Options include:
- Upright marble or granite headstones
- Flat bronze, granite, or marble markers
- Niche markers for cremation urns
4. Presidential Memorial Certificates
These are engraved paper certificates signed by the current U.S. President.
- Honor the memory of honorably discharged deceased veterans
- Multiple certificates can be requested for family members
5. VA Burial Flags
A United States flag is provided at no cost to drape the casket or accompany the urn of a deceased veteran.
Eligibility:
- Veterans who served during wartime
- Veterans who died on active duty
- Veterans who served after January 31, 1955
6. Military Funeral Honors
The Department of Defense provides military funeral honors at no cost to the family.
The ceremony includes:
- Folding and presentation of the U.S. flag
- Playing of Taps
- At least two uniformed military personnel
How to Apply for VA Burial Benefits
The process of applying for VA burial benefits varies depending on the specific benefit:
| 1. For burial in a VA national cemetery: |
|---|
- Contact the National Cemetery Scheduling Office
- Provide veteran’s discharge papers (DD214)
- For burial allowance:
- Submit VA Form 21P-530, Application for Burial Benefits
- Include copy of veteran’s discharge papers and death certificate
- For headstone or marker:
- Submit VA Form 40-1330, Claim for Standard Government Headstone or Marker
- Can be submitted by next of kin or authorized representative
- For Presidential Memorial Certificate:
- Submit VA Form 40-0247, Presidential Memorial Certificate Request Form
- Include copy of veteran’s discharge papers and death certificate
- For burial flag:
- Submit VA Form 27-2008, Application for United States Flag for Burial Purposes
- Available at VA regional offices, post offices, and funeral homes
Planning Ahead: Pre-Need Eligibility Determination
Veterans and their families can plan ahead by applying for a pre-need eligibility determination for burial in a VA national cemetery.
Benefits of pre-need determination:
- Peace of mind for the veteran and family
- Faster access to burial benefits when needed
- Opportunity to discuss wishes with family members
How to apply:
- Submit VA Form 40-10007, Application for Pre-Need Determination of Eligibility for Burial in a VA National Cemetery
- Provide veteran’s discharge papers and other supporting documents
VA Burial Benefits for Spouses and Dependents
Spouses and dependent children of eligible veterans may also qualify for burial benefits.
Eligibility:
- Spouse: Must be married to the veteran at the time of death
- Dependent children: Generally, must be under 21 or under 23 if attending school full-time
Available benefits:
- Burial in a national cemetery alongside the veteran
- Inscription on the veteran’s headstone
- Not eligible for separate burial allowances
State Veterans Cemeteries
In addition to national cemeteries, many states have established state veterans cemeteries.
Key points:
- Often have residency requirements
- May offer similar benefits to national cemeteries
- Typically funded through a combination of federal and state resources
Comparison of Burial Options
| Burial Option | Cost to Family | Eligibility | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| VA National Cemetery | No cost for plot, opening/closing, headstone | Veterans, spouses, dependents | Perpetual care |
| State Veterans Cemetery | Varies by state, often minimal | Veterans, may have residency requirements | Similar to national cemeteries |
| Private Cemetery | Full cost, may use burial allowance | Open to all | Choice of location |
Tips for Families Navigating VA Burial Benefits
- Gather important documents: Collect the veteran’s discharge papers, death certificate, and marriage certificate (if applicable) in advance.
- Understand eligibility: Review the eligibility criteria for various benefits to know what your loved one qualifies for.
- Communicate wishes: Discuss burial preferences with the veteran and family members.
- Consider pre-need determination: Apply for pre-need eligibility to simplify the process when the time comes.
- Work with a VSO: Veterans Service Organizations can provide guidance and assistance with the application process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can a veteran be buried in a VA national cemetery if they die overseas? A: Yes, the VA will provide transportation of the deceased veteran’s remains to the nearest national cemetery.
Q: Are veterans who received a dishonorable discharge eligible for burial benefits? A: Generally, no. Veterans must have been discharged under conditions other than dishonorable to be eligible.
Q: Can a veteran’s family choose the inscription on the headstone? A: Yes, within certain guidelines. The VA allows for personal inscriptions in addition to standard information.
Q: Is cremation covered by VA burial benefits? A: Yes, veterans who choose cremation are eligible for the same burial benefits as those who choose casket burial.
Q: Can a veteran reserve a specific plot in a national cemetery? A: No, specific plots cannot be reserved in advance. Assignments are made at the time of need.
Conclusion
VA burial and memorial benefits are a meaningful way to honor the service and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans. These benefits not only provide financial assistance but also offer a dignified final resting place and lasting memorials for those who have served. By understanding the range of benefits available and the application processes, veterans and their families can ensure they receive the recognition and support they deserve.
It’s important for veterans and their families to discuss these benefits and make their wishes known in advance. Planning ahead can alleviate stress during an already difficult time and ensure that the veteran’s service is properly honored. Remember, these benefits are not just financial assistance, but a nation’s way of saying “thank you” for the sacrifices made in service to our country.
Whether choosing burial in a national cemetery, using the burial allowance for a private ceremony, or utilizing other memorial benefits, the VA is committed to supporting veterans and their families in their time of need. These benefits stand as a lasting tribute to the men and women who have served in our armed forces, ensuring that their contributions to our nation’s security and freedom are never forgotten.
