How do I apply for VA burial benefits?

You can also apply: Apply by mail using an Application for Burial Benefits (VA Form 21P-530EZ). Mail the application and other documents listed above to your nearest VA regional office. If you have questions, call 800-827-1000.

Who is eligible for VA burial benefits?

The person qualifying for burial benefits is a service member who died while on active duty, active duty for training, or inactive duty for training, or. The person qualifying for burial benefits is the spouse or minor child of a Veteran, even if the Veteran died first, or.

Do VA benefits cover burial?

Under the current regulations, VA pays for burial and funeral expenses on a reimbursement basis, which requires survivors to submit receipts for relatively small one-time payments that VA generally pays at the maximum amount permitted by law.

Do veterans get free caskets?

Neither the VA nor the individual branches of the military provide free caskets for deceased veterans unless death occurs while they are on active duty. Goods and services purchased from funeral homes or cremation providers are not covered by the VA and must be paid for privately.

When a veteran dies Is there a death benefit?

When a Veteran dies, the spouse and family may be entitled to survivor benefits. After a Veteran’s death, contact your nearest Social Security Office (or call 1-80-772-1213) for more information and to apply for benefits.

What do I do when my veteran dies?

Call the Department of Defense at 800-538-9552 or 800-321-1080 to report the death of your loved one. You will need your loved one’s date of death when you talk with the military representative over the phone. This person is also a useful resource for any questions you have about military benefits.

How much does the VA pay for burial benefits?

Burial Allowance: VA will pay a $700 burial and funeral allowance for Veterans who, at time of death, were entitled to receive pension or compensation or would have been entitled if they were not receiving military retirement pay.

Do spouses of veterans get burial benefits?

VA burial allowances are flat rate monetary benefits that are paid for an eligible Veteran’s burial and funeral costs. The Veterans Benefits Administration offers a variety of benefits and services to spouses, children, and parents of Servicemembers and Veterans.

How much does the VA pay for cremation?

Does the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) pay for cremation? Unfortunately, the VA does not pay for cremation. However, it is possible to receive VA burial benefits for cremation. The VA does reimburse families pay for a portion of burial, funeral, and transportation costs related to a veteran’s death.

What is included in a VA burial?

Burial benefits available include a gravesite in any of our National cemeteries with available space, opening and closing of the grave, perpetual care, a government headstone, marker, or medallion, a burial flag, and a Presidential Memorial Certificate, at no cost to the family.

Does the VA pay for cremation?

Does the VA pay for cremation of a veteran?