What Is Burial Benefits
Burial Benefits are VA payments and services that cover funeral expenses, plot interment costs, and headstone or marker placement for eligible veterans and certain dependents. The VA provides these benefits through two main programs: the Burial Benefits for service-connected deaths and the non-service-connected Burial Allowance for veterans who die from any cause.
Eligibility and Payment Amounts
For service-connected deaths, the VA pays a burial allowance of up to $2,000 and a plot interment allowance of up to $300. If the veteran dies from a non-service-connected condition, the burial allowance is $300 and the plot allowance is $300. Spouses and dependent children may also qualify for benefits if the veteran was receiving VA compensation at the time of death.
To qualify, you must submit a VA Form 21-530 (Application for Burial Benefits) within two years of the veteran's burial. The VA requires a copy of the DD-214 to verify military service and discharge status. Veterans with other-than-honorable discharges are typically ineligible.
National Cemetery Services
The VA operates 155 national cemeteries across the United States where eligible veterans receive free burial, including the grave site, opening and closing of the grave, perpetual care, a headstone or marker, a flag, and a burial flag at no cost. This significantly reduces out-of-pocket expenses compared to private cemetery burial, which can exceed $5,000 to $15,000 in many regions.
If a veteran is buried in a private cemetery, the burial allowance helps offset costs, though it typically covers only a portion of total expenses. Many families use the plot allowance and burial allowance together to manage private cemetery costs.
Dependents and DIC Connection
Survivors who received Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) benefits while the veteran was alive may be entitled to higher burial allowances. Surviving spouses, children, and parents should clarify their eligibility status before filing a claim.
Filing and Documentation
- Submit VA Form 21-530 within two years of burial
- Provide a certified copy of the death certificate
- Include a copy of the DD-214 or military discharge documentation
- Submit itemized funeral expense receipts if claiming reimbursement
- If the veteran was receiving compensation, include proof of that status at death
Common Questions
- Can I claim burial benefits after two years? The standard filing deadline is two years from the date of burial. The VA may accept late claims in cases of good cause, but it's best to file promptly to avoid complications.
- Do I need to use a VA national cemetery? No. You can choose private burial and submit receipts for reimbursement, though the burial allowance may not cover all costs. National cemetery burial eliminates out-of-pocket expenses for the plot and most services.
- How long does the VA take to process burial benefit claims? Processing typically takes 30 to 60 days from the date the VA receives a complete application with all required documentation.