Start with official eligibility information
VA burial and memorial benefits have specific eligibility requirements. Depending on eligibility, options may include burial in a VA national cemetery, a burial flag, a headstone or marker, and other memorial items. Not every benefit applies to every person or cemetery.
Review the VA’s current guidance before making financial or cemetery decisions. This page does not determine eligibility or guarantee payment, reimbursement, cemetery space or a particular service.
Gather service documents
Look for the Veteran’s DD214 or other discharge papers. Keep originals in a safe place and share copies only through the appropriate official process. If records are missing, the National Archives explains how to request them and how to identify urgent burial-related requests.
Ask about military funeral honors
The VA advises families to arrange military funeral honors through a funeral director, Veterans Service Organization or VA national cemetery staff. Discuss the requested date and location before announcing arrangements. Availability and eligibility must be confirmed.
Keep benefits and funeral charges separate
A burial allowance is a separate benefit with its own eligibility and application rules. Do not assume it pays every cremation, funeral, transportation or private-cemetery charge. Review an itemized statement and the current VA rules before relying on a reimbursement.
Trusted resources
- VA burial benefits and memorial items
- VA military funeral honors guidance
- VA burial allowance eligibility and applications
- National Archives: request military service records
Official information checked November 3, 2026. Eligibility, services and guidance may change; follow the current source information.