Veterans burial benefits include a free burial plot, headstone, burial flag, military honors, and a partial burial allowance. Here's what's covered and how to claim it.
Eligible US military veterans and their families are entitled to a range of burial benefits that can cover a significant portion of funeral and burial costs. This guide explains what veterans burial benefits include, who qualifies, and exactly how to file for them in 2026.
What Veterans Burial Benefits Include
- Burial in a VA National Cemetery at no cost (grave, opening/closing, headstone, perpetual care)
- Government-furnished headstone or marker for any cemetery (not just VA)
- Burial flag to drape the casket and be given to next of kin
- Military funeral honors (folding and presentation of the flag, Taps)
- Presidential Memorial Certificate
- Burial allowance — partial reimbursement for funeral and burial costs (varies)
- Plot allowance if buried in a private cemetery
- Transportation reimbursement in some cases
Who Qualifies for Veterans Burial Benefits?
Generally eligible:
- Veterans who served at least one day of active duty (other than training) and received a discharge other than dishonorable
- Active duty service members
- Some members of the Reserve and National Guard
- Spouses and dependent children of eligible veterans (for VA cemetery burial)
Dishonorable discharge typically disqualifies. Specific eligibility rules are in the DD-214 or equivalent discharge paperwork.
How to File for Veterans Burial Benefits
- Locate the veteran's DD-214 discharge papers — this is the primary proof of eligibility. If missing, request from the National Archives.
- Notify the funeral home of veteran status — they coordinate military honors and VA arrangements.
- Choose the cemetery — VA National Cemetery (free) or private cemetery (with plot allowance).
- Request military honors through the funeral home or by calling 1-877-645-4667.
- File for burial allowance using VA Form 21P-530EZ within two years of burial.
- Request the headstone or marker using VA Form 40-1330.
How Much Does the VA Pay?
Burial allowances in 2026:
- Service-connected death: Up to $2,000 for burial expenses + transportation
- Non-service-connected death in VA facility: Up to $865 for burial + $865 plot allowance
- Non-service-connected death outside VA facility: Up to $300 + $865 plot allowance
Amounts vary year-to-year. Check VA.gov for current rates.
VA National Cemeteries
There are 155+ VA National Cemeteries. Burial in these includes grave space, opening and closing, a government headstone, and perpetual care — at no cost to the family. Availability depends on space at the closest cemetery; some families choose state veterans cemeteries when the nearest national cemetery is full.
Combining VA Benefits With Burial Insurance
VA burial benefits rarely cover the full cost of a funeral. Most families combine VA benefits with a dedicated funeral insurance or final expense insurance policy to cover the gap. For budget considerations, see our funeral cost breakdown.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is burial in a VA cemetery really free?
Yes — grave, opening/closing, headstone, and perpetual care are all covered. Family still pays for the funeral service, casket, and transportation.
Does the VA pay for cremation?
Yes. Cremated remains can be interred in a VA National Cemetery with full benefits.
Can spouses be buried in a VA cemetery?
Yes. Spouses and dependent children are eligible for burial in a VA National Cemetery alongside the veteran.
How long does it take to get VA burial benefits?
The allowance reimbursement typically takes 60–120 days after filing.
Coordinate Benefits With Titan Concierge
At Titan Concierge, we help veteran families coordinate VA benefits with funeral insurance and service planning. Explore the Titan 360 funeral insurance plan.
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