Veteran Resources

Things Families Need to Know When Planning a Funeral for a U.S. Veteran

Planning a funeral for a U.S. veteran involves unique considerations and benefits designed to honor their service to the country. Here are some of the main considerations families should understand so they can honor their veteran’s service in a meaningful and respectful way.

Funeral Director Expertise

Funeral directors with experience in veteran services can be invaluable resources. They are familiar with the benefits process and can help ensure that all necessary paperwork is completed to secure military honors, VA reimbursements, and burial arrangements.

Eligibility for VA Benefits

In most cases, veterans who were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable are eligible for VA burial benefits. This includes veterans who served during wartime, peacetime, or in the National Guard and Reserves (under specific conditions). Ensure you have the veteran’s discharge papers (DD214) to verify eligibility.

Burial in a National Cemetery

Veterans, their spouses, and dependent children may be buried in a VA national cemetery at no cost. The VA provides the gravesite, opening and closing of the grave, perpetual care, and a government-issued headstone or marker. Check the availability of nearby national cemeteries to plan accordingly.

Private Cemetery Burials

Veterans can be buried in private cemeteries with many of the same benefits provided by the VA. However, some costs, such as grave opening and closing fees and perpetual care, may not be covered. Families should inquire with private cemeteries about specific charges.

Headstones and Markers

Regardless of where they are buried (national cemetery or a private) most veterans are eligible for a government-issued headstone or marker, Families can choose from a variety of styles, including upright markers, flat markers, and niche markers for cremated remains.

VA Burial Allowance

Families may be entitled to burial allowances to help cover the costs of a funeral. The amount varies depending on whether the death was service-related or not. In 2024, the maximum reimbursement for a service-connected death is $2,000, while non-service-connected deaths are eligible for smaller amounts.

Military Honors

Every eligible veteran is entitled to military honors, which include a ceremonial folding of the U.S. flag and its presentation to the next of kin, as well as the playing of “Taps.” You can arrange these honors through the funeral director or by contacting the Department of Defense’s Military Funeral Honors Program.

Presidential Memorial Certificates

The family of a deceased veteran can request a Presidential Memorial Certificate signed by the current president, honoring their loved one’s service. These certificates are free and can be requested in multiple copies for distribution to family members.

Flag Presentation

A U.S. flag is provided free of charge to drape over the casket or accompany the urn of any eligible veteran. After the service, the flag is given to the next of kin or a close friend. Your funeral professional or the VA can assist in obtaining one.

Cremation Options

Veterans who opt for cremation are still eligible for VA benefits, including burial in a national cemetery or a niche in a columbarium.  Additionally, cremation placement (in-ground or above-ground) at private cemeteries may be eligible for a government marker or plaque.

RESOURCES:

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: Information on VA burial benefits, including eligibility, national cemeteries, headstones, and military honors: www.va.gov/burials-memorials

National Cemetery Administration (NCA): Resources on burial options in national cemeteries, Presidential Memorial Certificates, and government-issued headstones or markers: www.cem.va.gov

Military Funeral Honors Program: Overview of the military honors offered to veterans, such as flag presentation and the playing of "Taps": www.dmdc.osd.mil/mfh

Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA): Guidelines on VA burial allowances and reimbursements: www.benefits.va.gov/compensation/claims-special-burial.asp