Most U.S. service veterans receive a number of funeral service benefits as part of their enlistment remuneration. Many eligible people don't even realize they qualify. However, it can be a valuable benefit for those without financial means. If you’re a veteran or a family member of one, here’s what you need to know. 

An Introduction to Veteran Funeral Service Benefits

No Cost Burial in National Cemeteries

Eligible veterans, military spouses, and their dependents—children under the age of 21 or 23 if they are full-time students—can choose to be buried in a VA-run (Veterans Affairs) national cemetery at no cost. This includes the site, grave-liner, opening and closing of the grave, and headstone or marker. For the veterans themselves, it includes a military flag and, if appropriate, military funeral honors.  It may also include some or all of the transportation costs. Currently, 83 national cemeteries accept new burials while 21 others accept only cremated remains. Also, even if a veteran is buried in a cemetery that isn’t a national one, they can still apply for benefits from the VA. 

Reimbursement for Service-related Deaths

Families of veterans who died in service—on or since 9/11/01—and who choose to be buried in a state or private cemetery can be reimbursed for burial services (up to $2,000). Families of veterans who died in service prior to 9/11 may request reimbursement of up to $1,500.

Reimbursement for Non-Service-Related Deaths

Burial costs for veterans who didn’t die serving can also be reimbursed. Deaths that occurred on or after 10/1/18 while hospitalized in a VA facility are eligible for up to $780 in reimbursement. Otherwise, the VA will pay $300 toward funeral services and $780 toward a plot or interment costs.

Other Benefits

Veterans and active-duty service members are eligible for a free headstone or marker and inscription, wherever the burial location is. Some are eligible for full military honors, including the playing of Taps and the folding and presentation of the U.S. flag.

To plan a funeral service for a veteran in your life, contact Arndt Funeral Home LLC in Rochester, NY. They have served clients in and around Monroe county since their founding in 1975. They offer both burial and cremation services, funeral and memorial services, and funeral preplanning. Visit their website to learn more about their services, or call (585) 225-6350 to arrange a consultation.