Burial in a VA national cemetery is available for eligible Veterans, their spouses and dependents at no cost to the family and includes the gravesite, grave-liner, opening and closing of the grave, a headstone or marker, and perpetual care as part of a national shrine. For Veterans, benefits also include a burial flag (with case for active duty) and military funeral honors. Family members and other loved ones of deceased Veterans may request Presidential Memorial Certificates.
State Veterans Cemeteries: Seventy-four State Veterans cemeteries offer burial options for Veterans and their families. These cemeteries have similar eligibility requirements but many require state residency. Some services, particularly for family members, may require a fee. Contact us for additional information for cemeteries in your area.
Gravesites in Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) national cemeteries cannot be reserved in advance. You should advise your family of your wishes and where your discharge papers (DD214) are located. This information is very important in establishing your eligibility. If these papers have been lost or stolen the form for applying for duplicate copy is available. These papers are very important in establishing your eligibility.
You may wish to make preneed arrangements with a funeral home. At the time of need, your family would contact a funeral home who will assist them with making burial arrangements at a national cemetery. Fees for services provided by funeral directors and other related costs must be paid by the Veteran’s family. You may wish to make arrangements with a funeral home in advance of need. Contact us today for information on prearranging those services that are not provided by the VA.
