VETERAN’S BURIAL ALLOWANCE
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) furnishes a partial reimbursement of eligible veteran’s burial and funeral costs. When the cause of death is not service-related, the reimbursement is generally described as two payments. (1) a burial and funeral expense allowance, and (2) a plot interment allowance. You may be entitled to a VA burial allowance if:
• You paid for a veteran’s burial or funeral AND
• You have not been reimbursed by another government agency or some other source, such as the deceased veteran’s employer AND
• The veteran was discharged under conditions other than dishonorable.
In addition, at least one of the following conditions must be met:
• The veteran died because of service-related disability OR
• The veteran was getting VA pension or compensation at the time of death OR
• The veteran was entitled to receive VA pension or compensation but decided not to reduce his/her military retirement or disability pay OR
• The veteran died in a VA hospital or while in a nursing home under VA contract.
Service related death. The VA will pay an allowance toward burial expenses.
Non-service related death. The VA will pay an allowance toward burial and funeral expenses and a plot interment allowance. If the death happened while the veteran was in a VA hospital or under contracted nursing care, the cost of moving the deceased may be reimbursed.
HEADSTONES AND MARKERS
• The VA furnishes upon request, at no charge to the applicant, a Government headstone or marker to mark the unmarked grave of an eligible veteran in any cemetery around the world.
• Flat bronze, granite or marble marker and upright granite and marble headstones are available. The style chose must be consistent with existing markers or monuments at the place of burial.
• Niche markers are also available to mark columbarium used for inurnment of cremated remains.
BURIAL FLAGS
Most veterans are eligible for a burial flag. Reservists entitled to retired pay are also eligible to receive a burial flag.
To facilitate receiving veterans benefits for which you may be eligible, you will need the following when you contact the Veterans Administration Office:
• Proof of the veteran’s military service (DD 214)
• Service Serial Number
• Marriage License (if applicable)
• Child’s Birth Certificate( if applicable)
• Certified copy of the death certificate.
Veterans Administration Toll-Free Phone Number is: 1-800-827-1000 or visit their online website: www.va.gov