Understanding Veterans’ Burial Benefits
Who is eligible for veteranās burial benefits?
Any veteran who was discharged from services under conditions other than dishonorable.
What exactly will the Veteranās Administration provide?
ā¢ Military Honors
ā¢ Internment in one of 134 national cemeteries with available space
ā¢ Perpetual care of the grave
ā¢ Burial flag to drape the casket or accompany the urn
ā¢ Headstone or marker
ā¢ Presidential Memorial Certificate
How do you prove youāre eligible for these benefits?
You need to provide a copy of an official military discharge document bearing an official seal or other supporting documentation. The discharge papers must show that release from service was under conditions other than dishonorable.
What if I canāt find the discharge papers?
A copy of the DD214 document can be obtained in just one day through Touchstone Research Group.
If you are planning in advance of need and therefore have plenty of time and are not in any rush, a copy of the DD214 document can be obtained from the government at http://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records/.
Can I also get money towards the burial expenses?
Maybe. Some veterans are eligible for burial allowances. Download this document to see if you or your loved one qualifies.
What exactly is included in āmilitary honorsā?
A detail of two or more uniformed military personnel, with at least one being a member of the Veteranās parent service of the armed forces, will come to the funeral or service. Their participation will include folding and presenting the United States burial flag, and the playing of Taps.
Do I get to choose the headstone or marker?
The Veteranās Administration provides a headstone or marker in a standard Government size and style. For flat markers, you can choose from granite, marble or bronze. Upright headstones are available in granite and marble. For cremated remains, bronze niche markers are provided. For more information visit http://www.cem.va.gov/cem/hmm/index.asp.
Is the headstone or marker really free?
Yes. There is no charge for the headstone or marker itself. However, for burials in a private cemetery, the government does not make arrangements or pay any of the costs involved with actually placing the headstone or marker at the internment site.
Is the burial flag buried with the deceased?
No. The burial flag is used to drape the coffin or accompany the urn. It is meant to honor the memory of a veteranās military service to his or her country. The flag is usually then given to the next-of-kin as a keepsake.
What is a Presidential Memorial Certificate?
A Presidential Memorial Certificate is a paper certificate signed by the current President of the United States. It is meant to honor the memory of honorably discharged deceased veterans.
Where can I go to learn more about veteranās burial benefits?
Visit the National Cemetery Administration section of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairsā website, at http://www.cem.va.gov/burial_benefits/index.asp.