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Burial Allowance and Death Benefits

What is a VA Burial Allowance?

A VA burial allowance is a partial reimbursement of an 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 can apply for burial allowance by completing a VA Form 21-530, Application for Burial Allowance. You will need proof of the veteran’s military service (DD 214 or discharge/separation papers), a death certificate, and copies of funeral and burial bills you have paid.  

Who is Eligible for a VA Burial Allowance?

You may be eligible for a VA burial allowance if:

- you paid for the 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 a service-connected 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

Who Gets A Burial Flag?

A United States flag is provided, at no cost, to drape the casket or accompany the urn of a deceased veteran who served honorably in the U.S. Armed Forces. It is furnished to honor the memory of a veteran’s military service to his or her country. Former members of the Selected Reserve are also eligible for a burial flag. The VA is authorized by law to issue one flag for a veteran’s funeral and cannot replace it if it is lost, destroyed or stolen.

How Does a Person Get Buried in a National Cemetery?

Burial in a VA national cemetery is provided on a space available basis. Generally, deceased veterans discharged under conditions other than dishonorable and service members who die while on active duty are eligible. Under certain circumstance, spouses and qualified dependent children of active duty military personnel and eligible veterans may also be buried in a VA national cemetery. Gravesites in national cemeteries cannot be reserved. For more information (link to veterans_cemetery.html).

Does the VA Provide A Headstone or Marker?

The eligibility criteria for a VA headstone or marker are the same as for burial in a VA national cemetery. A headstone or marker is also available to individuals with 20 years service in the Selected Reserve or National Guard. The VA does not provide headstones or markers for the deceased spouse of a veteran unless the spouse was also a veteran in their own right. Headstones and markers of the same style as VA headstones and markers can be ordered commercially for spouses and other family members of a veteran at the family’s expense. A veteran does not have to be buried in a VA national or state cemetery to get a VA headstone or marker. Use VA Form 40-1330, Application for Standard Government Headstone or Marker, to apply for a VA headstone or marker.

Other Related Benefits




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