Glossary
National cemetery
A national cemetery is a federal burial ground, most run by the US Department of Veterans Affairs, for eligible veterans and certain family members. Burial in a VA national cemetery includes the grave, opening and closing, a liner, and a headstone at no cost.
The VA National Cemetery Administration operates national cemeteries across the country. Eligible veterans, and in many cases their spouses and dependents, can be buried there.
For eligible veterans, VA national cemetery burial typically includes the gravesite, its opening and closing, a grave liner, a government headstone or marker, and perpetual care at no cost to the family. Eligibility and current benefits should be confirmed with the VA.
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Common questions
- Who is eligible for burial in a VA national cemetery?
- Eligible veterans, and in many cases their spouses and dependents, may be buried in a VA national cemetery. Eligibility rules can be detailed, so families confirm them directly with the VA.
- How much does burial in a national cemetery cost?
- For eligible veterans, VA national cemetery burial typically includes the gravesite, its opening and closing, a grave liner, a government headstone or marker, and perpetual care at no cost to the family. Confirm current benefits with the VA.
- Can a spouse be buried in a national cemetery too?
- In many cases, yes. Eligible spouses and certain dependents can often be buried alongside the veteran, even if they die first. The VA can confirm eligibility for specific family members.
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