Burial Services

Definition

Burial Services, in the context of VA benefits, refer to the assistance and support provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs for the interment of eligible veterans and their dependents. This may include a gravesite, headstone or marker, burial flag, and a Presidential Memorial Certificate. Additionally, certain veterans may qualify for burial allowances that cover some funeral and burial costs.

Key Takeaways

1. VA burial benefits provide various services and honors for eligible veterans, including burial in a national cemetery, headstones or markers, and burial flags.
2. Veterans, their spouses, and eligible dependents may be entitled to burial in a VA national cemetery, at no cost, which includes the gravesite, opening and closing of the grave, and perpetual care.
3. For veterans who choose to be buried in a private cemetery, the VA may provide certain benefits such as a headstone or marker, burial flag, and a Presidential Memorial Certificate.

Importance

The VA benefits term, “Burial Services,” is important because it acknowledges and honors the service and sacrifices made by veterans during their time in the United States military.

These benefits provide financial support and assistance to the families and loved ones of deceased veterans, helping to manage and cover the costs associated with burial arrangements.

They also grant a dignified and respectful final resting place for the veteran, ensuring that their memory and service are preserved for future generations.

Overall, VA burial services play a critical role in relieving some of the emotional and financial burdens on the families of veterans and help to maintain our nation’s commitment to respecting and commemorating the service of those who have served.

Explanation

The purpose of Burial Services as a component of VA benefits is to provide a dignified final resting place for eligible veterans, honoring their service and sacrifices for the country. These benefits aim to ease the emotional and financial burden on the families of deceased veterans, offering a range of interment options and support during a challenging time.

By doing so, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs showcases a commitment to acknowledging the noble contributions of veterans and ensuring that their memory is preserved, as well as offering solace and support to their surviving loved ones.

Burial Services are utilized in various ways, depending on the preferences of the deceased veteran and their family. These services may include burial in a VA national cemetery, provision of a headstone or marker, a burial flag, and a presidential memorial certificate.

Financial support is also offered to help cover the costs of burial and funeral expenses, alleviating monetary strain on grieving families. Additionally, the VA provides professional support for planning funeral arrangements and coordinating with funeral directors, ensuring that veterans receive the respectful and honorable farewell they deserve.

Examples of Burial Services

National Cemetery Burial: The United States Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) offers burial services in any of its 155 national cemeteries to eligible veterans, their spouses, and dependents. These services include the gravesite, opening and closing of the grave, perpetual care of the grave, a government headstone or marker, a burial flag, and a Presidential Memorial Certificate, all at no cost to the veteran’s family.

Arlington National Cemetery Burial: Arlington National Cemetery, located in Arlington, Virginia, is one of the most prestigious military cemeteries in the country. Eligible veterans, active-duty military members, and their immediate family members can be buried at Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors. Services include graveside ceremonies, caisson processions, and the folding and presentation of the U.S. flag to the family of the deceased.

Reimbursement for Private Cemetery Burial: Under the VA benefits program, the VA also provides reimbursement for eligible veterans who are buried in private cemeteries. The reimbursement amounts vary depending on whether the veteran passes away due to a service-related disability or non-service-related causes. The reimbursement can cover burial and funeral expenses, plot or interment allowance, and transportation expenses of the remains. The reimbursement may not cover all costs related to the burial, but it is designed to provide financial assistance to the family.Please note that eligibility for burial benefits and services depend on the veteran’s discharge status, duration of service, and other factors. Families should contact the VA for complete information on eligibility and available benefits.

FAQ: VA Burial Services

1. What kind of burial services are offered by the VA?

The VA offers a range of burial services, including gravesites in national cemeteries, headstones or markers, and Presidential Memorial Certificates. Burial benefits can also include burial flag, reimbursement of burial expenses, and transportation to the burial site.

2. Who is eligible for VA burial services?

Veterans, active-duty service members, and National Guard and Reserve service members are eligible for VA burial services. In addition, certain spouses and dependents of veterans may also be eligible for burial benefits.

3. How do I apply for VA burial services?

To apply for VA burial services, you’ll need to complete and submit VA Form 40-10007, Application for Pre-Need Determination of Eligibility for Burial in a VA National Cemetery. You can also submit a claim for reimbursement of burial expenses by filling out VA Form 21P-530, Application for Burial Benefits.

4. How do I locate the nearest VA national cemetery for burial services?

Find the nearest VA national cemetery using the online VA National Cemetery Administration locator tool at www.cem.va.gov/cem/cems/locate_cemetery.asp, or call the National Cemetery Administration at 1-800-697-6947 for assistance.

5. Can I arrange a military funeral honors ceremony through the VA burial services?

Yes, the VA can help arrange a military funeral honors ceremony for eligible veterans. This includes the playing of Taps, folding and presentation of the American flag, and a rifle salute. Contact your local VA office or funeral home to arrange the military funeral honors.

Related VA Benefit Terms

• Grave Markers and Headstones
• National Cemetery Burial Eligibility
• Presidential Memorial Certificates
• Military Funeral Honors
• Burial Flags

Sources for More Information

• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs – Burials & Memorials
• National Cemetery Administration (NCA)
• National Veterans Foundation (NVF)
• Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)