Veteran Burial Benefits
The National Cemetery Administration began with the establishment of 14 cemeteries in 1862 when President Lincoln signed a law authorizing the establishment of such cemeteries for the burial of soldiers who die in military service.
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Veterans
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You are a veteran if you served as a member of the armed forces, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps or Coast Guard. You must have been discharged or released under honorable conditions.
Others Who May Be Eligible
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Some Reservists and National Guard members may also receive benefits. In addition, there are some other groups considered to have served in active military service, such as commissioned offers of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Public Health Service, World War II Merchant Mariners and Philippine Armed Forces. Spouses and dependents could also be eligible.
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Benefits
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For burial in a national cemetery, a gravesite will be provided as long as the chosen cemetery has space. Other benefits include opening and closing of the grave, a headstone or marker, a burial flag, a Presidential Memorial Certificate and perpetual care in the cemetery. For burial in a private cemetery, a headstone or marker, burial flag and a Presidential Memorial Certificate will be provided.
Information Needed
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If the burial is to take place in a national cemetery, you will need to provide the funeral home with some information. In order for them to contact the cemetery, they will need the full name and VA claim number, or the following information: military rank, branch of service, social security number, dates and places of birth and death, date of retirement or separation, and a copy of the DD-214, which is the separation document.
What They Pay
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The VA will pay up to $2,000 toward burial expenses if the death was caused by a service-related injury or disease. If the death was not service-related, they may pay as much as $300 toward expenses. In addition, they may pay another $300 for plot-interment allowance.
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