What VA Burial Benefits Can a Veteran's Spouse Receive?
Veterans burial allowances (sometimes called Veterans death benefits) help cover the cost of burial, funeral, and transportation expenses for military vets. However, as the spouse of a Veteran, you may also be eligible even if the Veteran has already passed away.
But there are certain requirements you must meet to be able to take advantage of these benefits. For example, you cannot receive funds from another government agency or the Veteran’s employer.
Here’s what you need to know about the requirements for spousal benefits and what’s needed to acquire them. You can also get help from a knowledgeable VFS-trained funeral professional at a location near you.
Who is Eligible for Veterans Burial Allowances?
According to the Veterans Administration website, these are among the relationships that may be eligible for benefits:
The Veteran’s surviving spouse (the VA recognizes same-sex marriage)
The surviving partner from a legal union (a relationship formalized in a document issued by the state recognizing the union.
Note: There are many rules about the program, and which Veterans and their spouses are eligible to receive, so check the website to review those guidelines.
What Kind of Benefits Are Available?
Whether you are the Veteran or their spouse, these are the types of VA benefits available if you meet the eligibility criteria:
An allowance for burial and funeral costs (the VA provides burial benefits for all legal burial types, including cremation and burial at sea. They also provide benefits for donations of the remains to a medical school).
A VA plot or internment allowance for the cost of the plot (gravesite) or internment.
Reimbursement for the cost of transporting remains to the final resting place.
How Do I Apply?
The VA has options for applying online or by mail. If you are planning ahead (which is recommended), you can file a pre-need application to find out if you can be buried in a national cemetery.
This application applies only to VA national cemeteries. State, territory, and tribal Veterans cemeteries may have additional eligibility requirements, such as residency, so it’s best to contact them directly for details.
Selecting a Cemetery
While you cannot make a “reservation” at a national cemetery, the VA asks for your preferences so they can help fulfill final wishes. You can find a map of the cemeteries that receive VA funding here. You can filter the results by choosing “All National VA Cemeteries,” “State, Territory and Tribal Veteran Cemeteries,” and “National Parks Service Cemeteries.” The Arlington National Cemetery is almost at capacity but still accepts those who qualify for this honor. You can learn more on their website.
What You Need to Gather to Apply
To apply for these benefits, you’ll need to gather documents and information about yourself and your spouse. If your spouse was the Veteran, the forms will refer to them as a “sponsor.”
Your Social Security number
Your spouse’s military service number (if different than their Social Security number)
Their current status
Their branch of service
The cemetery you prefer
If another family member has used the benefit in the past
Help for Applying for Veteran Burial Benefits
Your local funeral home can help navigate the application process for Veteran burial benefits with experienced professionals familiar with the process.
The VA also has help available by phone at the numbers below:
National Cemetery Scheduling Office at 800-535-1117 (TTY: 711), and select option 4.
For benefit-related questions, call VA Benefits and Services at 800-827-1000 (TTY: 711).
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