Why Veterans Should Pre-Arrange Their Burial Now

Planning for end-of-life arrangements isn’t easy, but for veterans and their families, it can make a significant difference. Pre-arranging burial through the VA helps remove uncertainty, reduces stress on loved ones, and ensures that benefits are used as intended when the time comes.

Many families are left trying to make decisions quickly during one of the most difficult moments they’ll face. Pre-planning helps avoid that situation entirely.

What Pre-Arranging Means

Pre-arranging burial typically involves completing a pre-need eligibility determination with the VA. This allows the VA to confirm, in advance, whether a veteran qualifies for burial in a VA national cemetery.

This process does not schedule a burial or reserve a specific gravesite — it simply confirms eligibility and places documentation on file for future use.

What Benefits Can Be Secured in Advance

By pre-planning, veterans can ensure eligibility for:

• Burial in a VA national cemetery
• Gravesite or columbarium space
• Opening and closing of the grave
• Perpetual care
• Government headstone or marker
• Burial flag

Spouses and dependents may also be included, depending on eligibility.

Why Pre-Planning Matters

Pre-arranging burial can:

• Reduce stress on family members during a difficult time
• Prevent delays in verifying eligibility
• Ensure all required documents are already on file
• Help families make informed decisions ahead of time

Without pre-planning, families may need to gather records, confirm eligibility, and make arrangements all at once — often under time pressure.

What Pre-Planning Does Not Cover

It’s important to understand that pre-arranging burial:

• Does not reserve a specific gravesite
• Does not cover funeral or memorial service costs
• Does not include transportation of remains

These aspects still need to be planned separately.

How to Get Started

To begin the pre-need eligibility process, veterans can submit:

• VA Form 40-10007 (Application for Pre-Need Determination of Eligibility for Burial in a VA National Cemetery)
• A copy of their DD Form 214 or discharge papers

Applications can be submitted online, by mail, or with assistance from a Veteran Service Organization (VSO).

What to Do Next

1. Confirm Eligibility – Review discharge status and service history
2. Submit VA Form 40-10007 – Apply for pre-need determination
3. Gather Key Documents – Keep discharge papers and records accessible
4. Discuss Plans with Family – Make sure loved ones understand your wishes
5. Review Other Benefits – Consider burial allowances and survivor benefits

Pre-planning doesn’t eliminate every decision, but it significantly reduces the burden on those left behind. It ensures your family isn’t left navigating a complex system during a time of grief.

— EARNED.vet