The Presidential Memorial Certificate (PMC) offers a formal tribute from the nation’s President to acknowledge the dedicated service of honorably discharged deceased Veterans. This engraved paper certificate, signed by the current President, provides a lasting recognition for their contributions. It is available to the next of kin, family members, and friends of eligible Veterans.
What is Presidential Memorial Certificates (PMC)?
The Presidential Memorial Certificate (PMC) is an engraved paper certificate, personally signed by the current President of the United States. Its purpose is to honor the memory of honorably discharged deceased Veterans and Reservists, formally acknowledging their military service to the nation. This program is administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), specifically through its National Cemetery Administration (NCA).
Who Qualifies?
Eligibility for a Presidential Memorial Certificate (PMC) is determined by two main criteria, based on information from the official VA source:
- The Veteran or Reservist: The deceased Veteran or Reservist must have been eligible for burial in a national cemetery. This typically implies an honorable discharge from military service.
- The Applicant: The individual requesting the certificate must be the next of kin, a family member, a close friend of the Veteran or Reservist, or an authorized service representative acting on behalf of a family member or friend.
Note that if a Veteran is buried in a national cemetery, a PMC may be automatically presented to the next of kin at the burial. However, if the Veteran is eligible for national cemetery burial but is interred in a private cemetery, an application is required.
What You Can Get
The Presidential Memorial Certificate program provides a significant symbolic benefit:
- An Engraved Certificate: Recipients receive a formal, engraved paper certificate signed by the current President of the United States, serving as a lasting tribute to the Veteran’s service.
- No Cost: The Presidential Memorial Certificate is provided free of charge to eligible applicants.
- Multiple Copies: Multiple copies of the PMC can be requested by eligible individuals, allowing various family members or friends to have their own certificate.
How to Apply — Step-by-Step
Applying for a Presidential Memorial Certificate involves several steps, as outlined by the VA. Applicants should gather all necessary documentation before submitting their request. As of the latest available information, applicants typically follow these steps:
- Verify Eligibility: Confirm that the deceased Veteran or Reservist was eligible for burial in a national cemetery and that you meet the criteria as next of kin, family member, or close friend.
- Complete the Application Form: Fill out the Presidential Memorial Certificate Request Form (VA Form 40-0247). This form can be downloaded from the official VA website.
- Gather Supporting Documents: Collect copies of the Veteran’s death certificate and military discharge documents (such as a DD214 or other official discharge papers). It is key to send copies, not original documents, as the VA cannot return them.
- Choose an Application Method: The VA offers several ways to submit your application and supporting documents:
- Apply Online: Submit your application directly through the official VA website portal.
- Mail Your Application: Send the completed VA Form 40-0247 and copies of supporting documents to: NCA FP Evidence Intake Center, PO Box 5237, Janesville, WI 53547.
- Upload Your Application: Use the QuickSubmit tool on the AccessVA website. You may need to register if it’s your first time using this tool.
- Submit In Person: Visit any VA regional office to submit your application and documents.
- Fax Your Application: Fax the completed form and supporting documents to 800-455-7143.
- Track Your Request: If it has been more than four months since you applied and you have not received the certificate, you may call the VA at 800-697-6947 to inquire about the status of your request. Avoid sending a second application unless specifically requested by the VA.
Common Mistakes & Pitfalls
When applying for a Presidential Memorial Certificate, applicants may encounter common issues that can delay the process. The Editorial Research Team suggests considering the following to help ensure a smoother application:
- Sending Original Documents: A frequent mistake is submitting original military discharge papers or death certificates. The VA explicitly states they cannot return original documents, so always send copies.
- Incomplete Documentation: Failing to include all required supporting documents, such as proof of military service (e.g., DD214) or the death certificate, can lead to delays.
- Not Verifying Eligibility: Applying without first confirming that the deceased Veteran was eligible for burial in a national cemetery can result in a denied application.
- Submitting Duplicate Applications: Sending multiple applications for the same Veteran within a short period can complicate processing. The VA advises against sending a second application unless instructed to do so.
- Incorrect or Incomplete Form: Errors or omissions on VA Form 40-0247 can cause the application to be returned or delayed. Ensure all fields are accurately completed.
- Not Checking Status After Sufficient Time: While patience is key, waiting indefinitely without checking the status after a reasonable period (e.g., four months) might mean a missed opportunity to address a processing issue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Presidential Memorial Certificate automatically sent?
Not always. If the Veteran is buried in a national cemetery, the VA may automatically present a PMC to the Veteran’s next of kin at the burial. However, if the Veteran is eligible for national cemetery burial but is interred in a private cemetery, a family member or close friend typically needs to apply for the certificate.
Can I request multiple copies of a PMC?
Yes, based on the official VA source, the VA accepts multiple requests for a Presidential Memorial Certificate. This allows various family members, close friends, or other loved ones to each receive a copy.
Is there a cost associated with the Presidential Memorial Certificate?
No, the Presidential Memorial Certificate is provided free of charge to eligible applicants. It is a complimentary tribute from the nation.
What should I do if I haven’t received my PMC after applying?
If it has been more than four months since you submitted your application for a PMC and you have not yet received it, you are advised to call the VA at 800-697-6947 to inquire about the status of your request. The VA generally recommends against sending a second application unless they specifically ask you to.
Where to Get Help
- Apply or check status: VA.gov
- Call VA: 1-800-827-1000 (general benefits)
- Visit a local Veterans Service Organization (VSO) for free claim assistance — DAV, AMVETS, VFW, American Legion
- VA Crisis Line (24/7): Dial 988, then press 1
Written by Megan Sinclair, Benefits & Grants Researcher, Sapipine, Inc. · Cross-checked against official .gov program rules · About our research · Last verified: 2026-05-13
Primary Sources: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA.gov). Official program page: https://www.va.gov/burials-memorials/memorial-items/presidential-memorial-certificates/
DISCLAIMER: Gov Money Map is not a government agency, tax advisor, financial advisor, or law firm. This page provides general educational information only. Federal program rules, dollar amounts, and eligibility criteria change frequently — verify current details with the official agency before submitting an application or making a financial decision. Last updated: May 2026.