10 VA Funeral Benefits for Veterans You Should Know About

As a veteran, you may be eligible for a variety of funeral benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). These benefits can help ease the financial burden on your loved ones and ensure that you receive the honor and recognition you deserve. Here are 10 VA funeral benefits for veterans that you should be aware of:

1. Flag Presentation: The VA provides an American flag to drape over the casket or accompany the urn of a deceased veteran. This symbolizes the veteran's service to their country.
2. Presidential Memorial Certificate: This certificate is signed by the President of the United States and is a way to honor the memory of the veteran's service.
3. Headstone or Marker: The VA provides a headstone or marker for the grave of a deceased veteran, regardless of whether they are buried in a national or private cemetery.
4. Burial Allowance: The VA may provide a burial allowance to help cover the costs of a veteran's funeral and burial. This allowance is available to eligible veterans and is paid directly to the funeral home or cemetery.
5. Funeral Honors: The VA provides military funeral honors for eligible veterans, including the folding and presentation of the flag, the playing of Taps, and a rifle salute.
6. Reimbursement of Burial Expenses: The VA may reimburse eligible veterans for some of the costs associated with their burial, including transportation, plot allowance, and opening and closing of the grave.
7. Grave Site Care: The VA provides perpetual care for the graves of veterans buried in national cemeteries. This includes maintenance of the grounds and headstones.
8. Survivor Benefits: The VA offers survivor benefits to the spouses and dependents of deceased veterans, including monthly pension payments and access to VA healthcare services.
9. Cemetery Services: The VA operates a network of national cemeteries where eligible veterans can be buried at no cost. These cemeteries provide a final resting place with full military honors.
10. Funeral Planning Assistance: The VA offers assistance with funeral planning, including help with coordinating military honors, obtaining necessary documentation, and arranging for burial in a national cemetery.

These are just a few of the many benefits available to veterans through the VA. If you or a loved one is a veteran, be sure to explore all of the options available to ensure a dignified and honorable final farewell.