Veterans and their families may qualify for financial assistance and benefits to help cover funeral and burial expenses. These resources are provided by government programs, non-profit organizations, and veterans’ support groups. Below is a guide to the available help, eligibility requirements, and how to apply.
Government Assistance Programs for Veterans
Veterans Affairs (VA) offers programs to assist with funeral costs. These include burial allowances, free burials in national cemeteries, and reimbursement for transportation costs. Below are the main benefits:
- VA Burial Allowances: Provide financial assistance to cover funeral expenses. Service-connected deaths can receive up to $2,000, while non-service-connected deaths may receive up to $893.
- Free Burial in National Cemeteries: Eligible veterans can be buried at no cost in a VA national cemetery, which includes gravesite, perpetual care, opening and closing of the grave, and a government-furnished headstone or marker.
- State Veterans Cemeteries: Some states offer similar burial benefits to those provided by the VA at state-run cemeteries, often extending eligibility to spouses and dependents.
- Reimbursement for Transportation Costs: For eligible veterans, families may receive reimbursement for transporting the veteran’s remains to a national cemetery.
Steps to Apply for VA Benefits
Families can take these steps to apply for VA benefits, ensuring the process is smooth and efficient:
- Gather Necessary Documentation
Collect the veteran’s DD214 form, a death certificate, and itemized funeral expense receipts. - Complete VA Form 21P-530
Submit the application for burial benefits either online or by mail to the nearest VA office. Form is here. - Work with a Funeral Home
Many funeral homes have experience with VA benefits and can assist with the application process and necessary arrangements. - Consider Pre-Need Eligibility
The VA offers a pre-need determination program that allows veterans to establish burial eligibility in advance.
Charitable Organizations
Non-profits and community organizations also assist families with funeral costs. Here are some key options:
- Final Salute Inc.: Helps cover funeral expenses for homeless or struggling veterans and their families.
- American Legion and VFW Posts: Local chapters provide financial aid, honor guards, and partnerships with funeral homes to offer discounted services.
- Operation Second Chance: Provides emergency funds to veterans’ families, which can be used for funeral-related expenses.
- See also: Charities that help fund funerals
Additional Assistance
For those choosing private cemeteries or who face unexpected expenses, these additional benefits and services may apply:
- Private Cemetery Options: The VA offers free headstones or markers and burial flags, even for burials outside national or state veterans cemeteries.
- Social Security Lump-Sum Payment: Families may qualify for a $255 payment from Social Security to help offset funeral costs.
- Help for Unclaimed Veterans: The VA works with local funeral directors to ensure unclaimed veterans receive proper burial, often with full honors.
Additional Funeral Funding Resources
To explore more resources available for funeral cost assistance, visit Who Can Help Pay for a Funeral in the United States?.
Common Questions About Veteran Funeral Assistance
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about veteran funeral assistance to clarify eligibility, benefits, and processes.
What is the VA burial allowance?
The VA burial allowance is a monetary benefit to help reimburse families for funeral and burial costs for eligible veterans. The amount varies based on whether the death was service-connected or not.
Who is eligible for a VA burial allowance?
Veterans discharged under conditions other than dishonorable and their families are eligible. Specific eligibility requirements depend on the type of benefit.
Can a veteran’s spouse or dependent receive burial benefits?
Yes, spouses and dependents of eligible veterans can be buried in VA or state veterans cemeteries, usually at no cost.
What funeral expenses does the VA burial allowance cover?
The allowance may cover burial, funeral services, transportation, and interment expenses.
How do I apply for VA funeral benefits?
Applications can be submitted online via the VA website or through VA Form 21P-530, which must include the necessary documentation.
Does the VA pay for headstones or markers?
Yes, the VA provides a free headstone, marker, or medallion for eligible veterans, even for private cemetery burials.
Can Social Security benefits be combined with VA burial benefits?
Yes, Social Security and VA benefits are separate programs and can be combined to help cover funeral costs.
Are there time limits to apply for VA funeral benefits?
Yes, families must apply for burial allowances within two years of the veteran’s burial or cremation date.
What happens if a family cannot afford the remaining costs after VA benefits?
Families can seek additional help from local charities, churches, or veteran organizations like the American Legion or VFW. See: Help with funeral costs in the U.S. by state
Can I pre-plan a veteran’s funeral to ensure benefits are used?
Yes, the VA’s pre-need determination program allows veterans and families to plan and secure burial benefits in advance.
VA funeral benefits
Below is a detailed table showing common funeral expenses and how VA benefits can help offset these costs for eligible veterans:
| Expense | Average Cost (USD) | VA Benefit Coverage | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Funeral Service | $7,000 | Up to $2,000 (Service-Connected Death) or up to $893 (Non-Service-Connected Death) | Includes viewing, ceremony, and preparation of remains. Additional costs may apply for special requests. |
| Burial Plot | $1,500 | Free in National Cemetery | Includes the gravesite, perpetual care, and grave opening/closing in VA cemeteries. |
| Cremation | $1,000 – $3,000 | Up to $2,000 (Service-Connected Death) or up to $893 (Non-Service-Connected Death) | VA may cover cremation costs, but transportation or additional fees may be the family’s responsibility. |
| Transportation of Remains | $500 – $1,000 | Reimbursable (Eligible Veterans) | Covers transporting remains to a VA cemetery if eligibility requirements are met. |
| Headstone or Marker | $500 – $3,000 | Provided free by VA | Available for all eligible veterans, even if buried in a private cemetery. |
| Burial Flag | $125 | Provided free by VA | Given to the next of kin or a designated individual. |
| Grave Liner or Vault | $1,000 – $1,500 | Not covered | Typically required by cemeteries but must be paid for by the family. |
| Flowers and Decorations | $200 – $500 | Not covered | Family is responsible for personalizing the service. |
| Obituary Publication | $200 – $600 | Not covered | Costs depend on the newspaper or online platform used. |
| Military Honors Ceremony | Varies (often free) | Coordinated by VA and Department of Defense | Includes flag folding, presentation, and playing of Taps. |
