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Veterans funeral benefits: cost & options
Eligible veterans are entitled to significant burial benefits at no cost: a gravesite in a VA national cemetery, opening and closing of the grave, a government headstone or marker, a burial flag, and military funeral honors. A VA burial allowance may also help with funeral and plot costs.
VA benefits can substantially lower a veteran's funeral cost, but you usually claim them through the funeral director and the VA, with a copy of the DD-214 discharge document. Benefits differ for service-connected versus non-service-connected deaths.
What's typically included
- A gravesite in any VA national cemetery, at no cost
- Opening and closing of the grave
- A government headstone or marker
- A burial flag and a Presidential Memorial Certificate
- Military funeral honors, including the flag folding and Taps
Often not included
- The funeral home's services and preparation
- A casket, urn, or burial vault
- Transport of the deceased to the cemetery
- Burial in a private cemetery (only a partial allowance may apply)
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Common questions
- What burial benefits do veterans get?
- At a VA national cemetery, an eligible veteran receives a gravesite, opening and closing of the grave, perpetual care, a government headstone or marker, and a burial flag — at no cost. Military funeral honors (the flag folding and Taps) and, in many cases, a VA burial allowance are also available.
- How much is the VA burial allowance?
- The VA pays a set burial-and-funeral allowance plus a plot allowance for eligible non-service-connected deaths, with higher amounts for service-connected deaths. The figures are updated periodically, so confirm the current amounts with the VA when you apply.
- How do I claim veterans funeral benefits?
- Tell the funeral director the person was a veteran and provide the DD-214 discharge document. The funeral home typically helps request military honors and a burial flag, and you apply to the VA for the burial allowance and national-cemetery interment.
Other services
Prices are national ranges for general guidance only — not a quote. Providers must give you an itemized price list under the FTC Funeral Rule.