As a way of honoring those who served this nation’s Armed Forces, the United States government provides burial benefits for veterans. It can be complex to sort out all the rules and eligibility, so Porto Funeral Homes in New Haven County, CT, is providing a guide to offer clarity. Here is a breakdown of burial benefits as explained by a knowledgeable funeral home staff. 

A Guide to the Burial Benefits of Veterans

Who Is Eligible? 

All veterans and their immediate families are eligible for some degree of burial benefits, as long as their discharge from the Armed Forces was not dishonorable and they completed a minimum term of duty. If the death is related to the veteran’s service, reimbursement of up to $2,000 is available. After getting a receipt from the funeral home, it can be submitted to the Veterans Affairs office for prompt payout. If the death was not service related, $300 toward burial and the funeral can be redeemed.  

Are Flags Involved? 

A non-monetary benefit of being a veteran is the honor of having the American flag be a part of the funeral. With the help of a funeral home, or on your own, you can notify the VA of the death and have a flag for the service. It will be draped over the casket, and after the service, a soldier on active duty will present the totem to the spouse. 

What About National Cemeteries?

While some individuals prefer a local burial, others find meaning in a national cemetery. The VA has 114 of them across the country, and veterans who have a service-related death are eligible for burial there. There is an application process involved, which must be completed by funeral home staff. 

If you believe your loved one to be eligible for veteran’s burial benefits, reach out to Porto Funeral Homes. They’ve served the Connecticut area for over 75 years, striving to honor the dead with the utmost dignity. The staff is available to help facilitate burial or cremation as well as assist you in planning a memorial service. To speak to a warm staff member, call (203) 467-3000 for East Haven or (203) 934-5000 to reach their West Haven location. Learn more about the funeral home and veteran’s benefits by visiting their website.