The Department of Defense (DoD) and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) ensure that service members who die in combat receive proper burial honors.
They also provide financial and logistical assistance to families of veterans who qualify for burial benefits. However, not all veterans are eligible, especially those who received a dishonorable discharge.
Let’s look into the burial benefits offered by the VA, who qualifies, and what assistance is available.
VA Burial Service
Veterans’ burial benefits cover a range of services to honor those who served. Families may be eligible if they are covering funeral and burial expenses without reimbursement from another source (such as a government agency or employer). The burial service includes:
- Collection, removal, transfer, and identification of remains
- Handling of personal effects (Given to the service member’s heirs or next of kin)
- Preparation and burial of the deceased
- Transportation of remains to the burial site
- Travel arrangements for the immediate family
- Burial in a national cemetery (subject to space availability) or a private plot
- Interment of cremated remains with full honors
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for VA burial benefits, the veteran must meet at least one of the following conditions:
- Died from a service-connected disability
- Passed away while receiving medical care from the VA, either in a hospital or outpatient clinic
- Died during an authorized VA-covered transfer while en route to or from a medical facility for treatment
- Had a pending VA compensation or pension claim at the time of death and would have qualified for benefits if alive
- Was receiving a VA pension or disability payment at the time of passing
- Qualified for benefits but was receiving a full military pension or disability compensation instead
Stay Updated
Veterans’ benefits programs are subject to change, so it’s important for families to stay informed. The VA frequently updates policies and eligibility requirements. Always check official notices or visit the VA website for the latest information on burial assistance.
FAQs
Who qualifies for VA burial benefits?
Veterans who died from service-related causes or were receiving VA benefits.
Does VA burial cover cremation?
Yes, cremated remains receive the same honors and interment options.
Can a dishonorably discharged veteran get burial benefits?
No, dishonorable discharge disqualifies a veteran from VA burial benefits.
Does VA pay for burial in a private cemetery?
Yes, but only certain expenses are covered, such as a burial allowance.
How can I apply for VA burial benefits?
You can apply through the VA website or contact a VA representative.