VA Burial Benefits Most Families Never Claim

Every year, thousands of veterans’ families miss out on burial and survivor benefits — not because they don’t qualify, but because they weren’t aware these benefits exist.

Understanding what’s available can make a significant difference during a difficult time.

Burial Allowances

The VA provides financial support to help cover the costs of veteran funerals.

Key Points:

• Eligibility: Most veterans who were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable

• Allowance: Covers a portion of burial and funeral expenses, including transportation and basic service costs

• How to Apply: Families must submit VA Form 21-530, “Application for Burial Benefits”

The allowance amount may vary depending on whether the burial is in a VA national cemetery or a private cemetery, and whether the death was service-connected.

Plot or Interment Reimbursement

If the veteran is buried in a private cemetery:

• The VA may reimburse the cost of purchasing a burial plot or interment

• Reimbursement is not automatic — filing the correct paperwork is required

• Both the veteran’s spouse and dependents may be eligible for plot allowances

Headstones, Markers, and Medallions

The VA provides:

• Headstones or grave markers for veterans’ graves at no cost

• Medallions for placement on private gravestones if a headstone isn’t desired

• Engraving is standardized, and installation may be coordinated through the VA

Survivor Benefits

Families of veterans may qualify for additional benefits after a veteran’s death, including:

• Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) — monthly payments to eligible surviving spouses

• Burial flag — a United States flag for use at the gravesite

• Presidential Memorial Certificate (PMC) — a certificate honoring the veteran’s service

Eligibility often depends on service-connected status, length of service, and marital history, so it’s important to confirm requirements with the VA.

Who Is Covered?

• Veterans discharged under conditions other than dishonorable

• Surviving spouses of eligible veterans

• Dependent children may also qualify for certain survivor benefits

It’s worth noting that eligibility rules differ slightly between benefits, so review each carefully before filing.

What to Do Next

Many families miss out on benefits simply because they don’t know they exist. To ensure your family receives what they’re entitled to:

1. Gather the veteran’s discharge paperwork (DD-214)

2. Review available VA burial benefits on the VA website or via Earned.vet

3. Submit the required forms, such as VA Form 21-530, as soon as possible
   
   Having this information ahead of time helps families focus on honoring their loved one without the stress of missing benefits.

— Earned.vet