Assistance for end-of-life arrangements is an often-overlooked veteran benefit. Whether you’re considering funeral planning in advance to ease the burden on your loved ones or you’re preparing arrangements for a family member, you may find it helpful to learn how these benefits could apply to your family. The compassionate team from Bolton & Lunsford Funeral Homes in Cincinnati, OH, has been taking care of veteran funerals since 1938. To help with your planning, they offer a brief overview of end-of-life veteran benefits.

If the individual for whom the funeral plans are being made has served in the U.S. military, they are likely entitled to financial benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs (often referred to as “the VA”). These benefits may also extend to the veteran’s spouse and dependents; however, the financial benefits are often not enough to cover the full cost of a funeral.

Usually, the VA will provide funding for burial spaces for the veteran, their spouse and their dependents. The veteran’s loved ones will receive a burial flag and a Presidential certificate upon their death. Unless the veteran died in the line of duty, will be needed to cover the cost of the burial, casket and other funeral arrangements.

At the time of funeral planning, the director will walk you through the available funeral options exclusive to veterans, including burial in a military cemetery. Veterans can have an honor guard present, who will fold the flag and present it to a designated loved one. Some families choose additional honors, such as a rendition of “Taps,” a military chaplain reading or a rifle salute.

No matter which options best suit your family’s needs, the team from Bolton & Lunsford Funeral Homes will provide unwavering support through every step of the funeral planning process. To learn more about pre-planning for veterans, you can visit the funeral home online. Call (513) 661-4059 to speak directly with one of their dedicated staff members.