VA takes special care to pay lasting tribute to the memory of Veterans who served and sacrificed and that of their families. VA meticulously maintains 135 VA national cemeteries in 40 states and Puerto Rico and is working to increase access to accommodate Veterans and eligible family members close to home. In a few years, 95 percent of Veterans will have a burial option in an open VA, state or tribal veterans cemetery located within 75 miles of their home. Some benefits are also available for Veterans who choose burial in a private cemetery.
Veterans with a qualifying discharge are entitled to VA burial benefits. Spouses and dependent children are eligible too, even if they predecease the Veteran.
The following burial benefits may be provided:
Burial in a VA national cemetery
Burial in a private cemetery
Please note that gravesites in a VA national cemetery cannot be reserved in advance. To prepare for a private cemetery burial, VA suggests families review these questions and complete required forms in advance.
Explore VA Memorial Benefits Today
To determine eligibility before the time of need: (Read More)
To request burial at the time of need when eligibility has been determined: (Read More)
To establish eligibility at the time of need: (Read More)
To receive a headstone, marker, or medallion: (Read More)
To receive a burial flag: (Read More)
To receive a Presidential Memorial Certificate (PMC): (Read More)
To apply for a VA Burial Allowance: (Read More)
You can learn more about VA Burial Allowances and eligibility on this special compensation overview page.