VA Burial Benefits: What Every Veteran's Family Needs to Know

I responded to a lot of calls involving veterans over the years. What I remember most is how often their families were unaware of the burial benefits their loved one had earned. Benefits that could have covered thousands of dollars in funeral costs were left on the table because nobody told them in time. This post exists so that does not happen to your family.

The VA provides several burial benefits for eligible veterans, and most of them cost the family nothing. Here is what is available and how to access it.

Basic Burial Allowance

For veterans who died on or after October 1, 2025, the VA pays up to $1,002 for burial and funeral expenses. If the death was service-connected, the allowance increases to $2,000 regardless of when the death occurred. This is a reimbursement -- a funeral home must be paid first, then the family submits VA Form 21P-530EZ to request reimbursement. Amounts adjust annually based on the Consumer Price Index; check va.gov for the current rate.

Plot or Interment Allowance

If the veteran is not buried in a national cemetery, the VA also provides up to $1,002 toward the cost of a burial plot or interment in a state veterans cemetery. This is a separate payment from the burial allowance and can be claimed in addition to it -- meaning an eligible family can receive up to $2,004 combined for burial and plot costs (for non-service-connected deaths occurring on or after October 1, 2025).

Free Burial in a National Cemetery

Any veteran with an honorable or general discharge is eligible for burial in a national cemetery at no cost. This includes the opening and closing of the grave, a liner, a grave marker, and perpetual care. Spouses and dependent children are also eligible. There are 155 national cemeteries across the country. To find one near you, visit va.gov or call 1-800-535-1117.

Headstone or Grave Marker

The VA will provide a headstone, grave marker, or medallion at no cost for any eligible veteran regardless of where they are buried -- including private cemeteries. The family is responsible for the cost of placing the marker in a private cemetery, but the marker itself is free. Submit VA Form 40-1330 to request one.

Presidential Memorial Certificate

Every eligible veteran's family can receive a Presidential Memorial Certificate -- an engraved document signed by the President expressing the nation's gratitude. It costs nothing. Apply through any VA regional office or online at va.gov.

How to Claim These Benefits

Tell the funeral home director that the deceased is a veteran as soon as possible. A good funeral home will help guide you through the paperwork. You will need the veteran's DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty). If you cannot find it, you can request a copy through the National Archives at archives.gov/veterans.

One More Thing

These benefits exist because of service that cannot be repaid. Do not leave them unclaimed. A VA benefits counselor can walk you through all of this at no charge. Call 1-800-827-1000 or visit your nearest VA regional office.

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