Burials & Memorials services provided by the VA honor the service and sacrifice of veterans and their eligible family members. The National Cemetery Administration (NCA) ensures that veterans receive a dignified burial and lasting memorial that commemorates their service to the nation.

Eligible veterans, service members, and some family members can be interred in a VA national cemetery, state veterans cemetery, or receive a government-furnished headstone, marker, or medallion at no cost. Benefits include a gravesite, opening and closing of the grave, perpetual care, a headstone or marker, a burial flag, and a Presidential Memorial Certificate.

Families can plan a burial in advance or at the time of need. The VA's Pre-Need Eligibility program allows veterans to determine their eligibility for burial in a VA national cemetery ahead of time, easing the burden on surviving family members.

For those buried in private cemeteries, the VA provides headstones, markers, or medallions to signify the veteran's service, and may reimburse some burial and funeral expenses under certain conditions.

Survivor and dependent benefits are also available, including Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), which provides tax-free monetary benefits to eligible survivors of service members who died in the line of duty or veterans whose death resulted from a service-related injury or disease.

Educational assistance through the Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance (DEA) program offers up to 36 months of education and training benefits to eligible dependents.

The VA also provides grief counseling and bereavement support to families through Vet Centers and other resources.

By accessing Burials & Memorials benefits, families can ensure their loved ones receive the honor and recognition they deserve, preserving their legacy and providing comfort during a difficult time.

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