Glossary
Burial vault
A burial vault is a sealed outer container, usually concrete or reinforced material, that encloses the casket in the grave. It supports the soil above and helps keep the ground level. Many cemeteries require a vault or a grave liner.
Cemeteries often require an outer burial container so the ground does not settle and sink over the casket as the years pass. A fully sealed vault is one option; a simpler, unsealed grave liner is another.
Vaults are a cemetery requirement, not a legal one — no US law requires a casket to be enclosed in a vault. The FTC Funeral Rule entitles you to an itemized price list, so you can compare vault and liner options before buying.
Related terms
See also
Common questions
- Is a burial vault required by law?
- No US law requires a casket to be enclosed in a vault. Many cemeteries require an outer container — either a sealed vault or a simpler grave liner — as their own policy so the ground stays level, but that is a cemetery rule, not a legal one.
- How much does a burial vault cost?
- Vaults vary widely depending on material and finish, and a sealed vault generally costs more than an unsealed grave liner. Under the FTC Funeral Rule you are entitled to an itemized price list, so you can compare vault and liner options before buying.
- What is the difference between a burial vault and a grave liner?
- A grave liner covers the top and sides of the casket and is usually unsealed and lower cost. A burial vault fully encloses and seals the casket. Both satisfy a cemetery's requirement to keep the ground from settling.
Explore with AI
This definition is general information, not legal or financial advice. Laws and prices vary by state and provider. See our editorial standards.