Department of Veterans Affairs

Burial Allowance Benefits
We at Advanced Funeral Planning feel that it is very important that you are aware of any and all benefits if you are a veteran. We hope that this information, which we have compiled from the Department of Veterans Affairs and which is subject to change, will be helpful to you. Each state is different in regulations and offerings, so please check with your state Dept. of Veterans Affairs for final determination of eligibility and benefits.

What is a VA Burial Allowance?

A VA Burial Allowance is a partial reimbursement of an eligible veteran's burial and funeral costs. When the cause of death is not service related, the reimbursement is generally described as two payments: (1) a burial and funeral expense allowance, (2) a plot interment allowance.

Who is eligible?

You may be eligible for a VA burial allowance if:

¨ You paid for a veterans burial or funeral AND
¨ You have not been reimbursed by another government agency or some other source, such as the deceased veterans employer AND
¨ The veteran was discharged under conditions other than dishonorable.

In addition, at least one of the following conditions must be met:
¨ The veteran died because of a service-related disability OR
¨ The veteran was getting a VA pension at the time of death OR
¨ The veteran was entitled to receive VA pension/compensation, but decided not to reduce his/her military retirement or disability pay OR
¨ The veteran died in a VA hospital or while in a nursing home under a VA contract.

How much does the VA pay?

Service-Related death-- The VA may pay up to $1,500. toward burial expenses. If the veteran is buried in a VA national cemetery, some or all of the cost of moving the deceased may be reimbursed.

Non Service-Related death--VA may pay up to $300 toward burial and funeral expenses, and a $150 interment allowance. If the death happened while the veteran was in a VA hospital or under contracted nursing home care, the cost of moving the deceased may be reimbursed.

How can I apply?

Your funeral director can help you apply by filling out VA form 21-530, Application for Burial Allowance. They would need proof of the veteran's military service (DD214), a death certificate, and copies of funeral and burial bills you have paid.

Related Benefits

Burial in VA National Cemeteries
Headstones and Markers
Presidential Memorial Certificates
Burial Flags Burial with Military Honors
Burial at Sea

Disclaimer: The information contained on this page and all pages is for informational purposes only. Each state, county and region has its own laws, rules and regulations and your individual state agencies should be consulted before making any decisions. These options presented on this website's pages are available through Advanced Funeral Planning in and for the State of Connecticut and may not be available to and for all states. Advanced Funeral Planning, LLC accepts no liability for any arrangements that are made between you and your funeral home.