VA Burial Benefits
National cemetery burial, headstone/marker, and burial flag for the veteran; reimbursement to surviving family for burial costs.
At a glance
- Benefit type
- Burial & Memorial — Federal
- Who it's for
- Survivors
- VA rating needed
- No rating requirement
- Where it applies
- United States
- Last verified
- May 12, 2026
What is VA Burial Benefits?
VA Burial Benefits is a federal burial & memorial benefit for survivors. National cemetery burial, headstone/marker, and burial flag for the veteran; reimbursement to surviving family for burial costs.
Who qualifies
- Through veteran sponsor (any rating)
Who is eligible
Eligibility
Veterans who were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable.
Pre-need eligibility
A veteran can apply in advance to determine eligibility for burial in a VA national cemetery using VA Form 40-10007.
How to apply (after death): Surviving family submits VA Form 21P-530EZ for the burial allowance.
What VA Burial Benefits covers
Includes
Burial in a VA national cemetery at no cost, government-furnished headstone or marker, Presidential Memorial Certificate, burial flag, and military funeral honors.
Burial allowance (effective October 1, 2025): $1,002 burial allowance plus $1,002 plot/interment allowance for non-service-connected deaths. For service-connected deaths, VA pays a substantially higher burial allowance (currently up to $2,000) in lieu of the $1,002/$1,002 amounts. Reimbursement is paid to the surviving family member who paid the burial costs (receipt required).
Verified information & sources
Last verified: May 12, 2026
Official source: va.gov
Compiled and fact-checked against the official source linked above. Benefit rules and dollar amounts change over time — always confirm current details at the official source before applying. A county Veterans Service Officer (VSO) is a free, accredited advocate who can review your eligibility and help you file at no cost.
Frequently asked questions about VA Burial Benefits
Who qualifies for VA Burial Benefits?▾
How do I apply for VA Burial Benefits?▾
Where can I verify VA Burial Benefits?▾
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