Eligibility for Burial in a National Cemetery

Understanding who can be buried in a national cemetery is the first key step. The VA National Cemetery Administration (NCA) sets specific criteria for veterans, their spouses, and certain dependent children. It's important to distinguish between VA National Cemeteries and State Veterans Cemeteries, as eligibility rules can vary slightly.

Veteran Eligibility

Generally, a veteran is eligible if they meet the following criteria:

• Service Requirement: Served in the U.S. Armed Forces (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Space Force).
• Discharge Type: Received an honorable discharge. This includes general, honorable conditions, or under honorable conditions. Individuals discharged dishonorably or for certain other reasons (e.g., bad conduct, desertion, mutiny) are typically not eligible.
• Minimum Service: For those who enlisted after September 7, 1980, or entered active duty after October 16, 1981, they must have completed 24 continuous months of active duty or the full period for which they were called to active duty. This requirement does not apply to veterans who died on active duty, or whose death was service-connected.
• Reserve/National Guard: Members of the Reserve components and the National Guard who were entitled to retired pay or would have been entitled to retired pay but for being under the age of 60, are also eligible.

Spouse Eligibility

The spouse of an eligible veteran is also eligible for burial in a national cemetery, regardless of whether the veteran is buried in a national cemetery or elsewhere. This includes:

• Current Spouses: A person who was married to an eligible veteran at the time of the veteran's death.
• Surviving Spouses: A person who was married to an eligible veteran at the time of the veteran's death and has not remarried. If a surviving spouse remarries, they generally lose eligibility unless the subsequent marriage is terminated by death or divorce.
• Remarriage Considerations: A surviving spouse who remarries an ineligible individual generally loses eligibility. However, if the remarriage is to another eligible veteran, they may regain eligibility through the second veteran.

Important: A spouse does not need to be interred at the same time as the veteran. They can be buried later, even if the veteran is buried in a private cemetery.

Dependent Child Eligibility

Dependent children of an eligible veteran may also be eligible for burial in a national cemetery under specific conditions:

• Age: Unmarried children under 21 years of age, or under 23 years of age if pursuing a full-time course of instruction at an approved educational institution.
• Disability: Unmarried adult children of any age who became permanently physically or mentally disabled and incapable of self-support before reaching 21 years of age (or 23 if a full-time student).
• Dependency: The child must have been dependent on the veteran for support.

National Cemetery vs. State Veterans Cemetery

While VA National Cemeteries are federally operated, State Veterans Cemeteries are managed by individual states. Eligibility criteria for State Veterans Cemeteries may be similar to national cemeteries but can sometimes include state residency requirements or other specific conditions. It's always best to check with the specific state cemetery for their rules.

Arlington National Cemetery

Note that Arlington National Cemetery has stricter eligibility requirements than other VA National Cemeteries. Eligibility for burial at Arlington is generally reserved for active duty service members, retired service members, recipients of high military honors, and certain other specific categories. Burial at Arlington is not managed by the VA National Cemetery Administration but by the Department of the Army. For specific criteria, consult the official Arlington National Cemetery website.

How to Apply for Burial in a National Cemetery: Step-by-Step

The application process for burial in a national cemetery can be initiated either in advance (pre-need) or at the time of death (at-need). Understanding the required documents and timing is key for a smooth process.

1. Pre-Need Eligibility Determination (VA Form 40-10007)

The VA offers a "Pre-Need Determination of Eligibility for Burial in a VA National Cemetery" program. This allows veterans and their eligible family members to apply for a pre-need decision regarding their eligibility for burial in a VA national cemetery. This can significantly ease the burden on surviving family members during a difficult time.

• Purpose: To receive a determination of eligibility in advance, allowing families to plan without the stress of eligibility questions at the time of need.
• How to Apply: Complete and submit VA Form 40-10007, Application for Pre-Need Determination of Eligibility for Burial in a VA National Cemetery.
• Required Documents: Typically includes the veteran's discharge papers (DD-214 or equivalent), marriage certificates for spouses, and birth certificates for dependent children.
• Outcome: The VA will issue a written decision. This decision does not reserve a gravesite but confirms eligibility.

2. At-Need Application Process

When a death occurs, the application for burial is typically handled by the funeral home or directly by the next of kin with the National Cemetery Scheduling Office.

• Who Applies: The funeral director, next of kin, or other authorized representative.
• Contacting the National Cemetery Scheduling Office: This is the primary point of contact for requesting burial at the time of death. They operate 7 days a week.
• Required Documents (At-Need):
  • Veteran's Discharge Papers: Most importantly, the DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty) or other official military service records that show honorable service.
  • Death Certificate: A certified copy of the death certificate.
  • Proof of Relationship: For spouses, a marriage certificate. For dependent children, a birth certificate or adoption papers.
  • Social Security Numbers: For the deceased and the applicant.
• Timing: It is key to contact the National Cemetery Scheduling Office as soon as possible after a death occurs to arrange for burial. They will coordinate the interment date and time with the family and funeral home.
• Choosing a Cemetery: You can request burial in any open VA national cemetery with available space. The VA will do its best to accommodate your request, but specific plot choices are generally not possible.

Important Note: Do NOT make irreversible commitments (e.g., purchasing a private plot) until eligibility has been confirmed by the VA.

Costs, Limits, and Available Services for Burial in a VA National Cemetery

One of the most significant benefits of burial in a VA National Cemetery is the thorough package of services provided at no cost to the family, alongside potential financial allowances.

Free Services Provided by the VA

For eligible veterans, spouses, and dependent children, the following services are provided at no charge:

• Gravesite or Niche: A burial plot in a national cemetery or a columbarium niche for cremated remains.
• Opening and Closing of the Grave: The labor involved in preparing the gravesite for interment and closing it afterward.
• Perpetual Care: Ongoing maintenance and upkeep of the gravesite and the cemetery grounds, ensuring a beautiful and respectful resting place for generations.
• Government Headstone or Marker: A standard government headstone or marker (flat or upright, depending on cemetery section) is provided and inscribed with the deceased's name, branch of service, dates of birth and death, and emblems of belief.
• Presidential Memorial Certificate: A certificate bearing the President's signature, honoring the deceased veteran.
• Military Funeral Honors: Upon request, the VA will arrange for military funeral honors, typically including a flag folding ceremony and the playing of "Taps."
• Burial Flag: A U.S. flag is provided to drape the casket or accompany the urn and is presented to the next of kin.

Cremation Accepted: Yes, cremation is fully accepted. Cremated remains can be interred in a grave or placed in a columbarium niche within a national cemetery, with the same benefits provided as for casketed remains.

What the VA Does NOT Cover

While the VA provides significant benefits, it's important to understand what is not included:

• Funeral Home Costs: Services provided by a private funeral home (e.g., embalming, cremation services, funeral arrangements, viewing, use of facilities) are generally not covered.
• Transportation of Remains: The cost of transporting the remains to the national cemetery is typically the family's responsibility.
• Flowers and Other Memorial Items: Personal items, floral arrangements beyond those provided by the VA, or other memorial tributes are not covered.

VA Burial Allowances (Financial Assistance)

The VA may provide financial assistance to help offset some funeral and burial expenses. These allowances are separate from the services provided at a national cemetery.

• Service-Connected Death: If a veteran's death is service-connected, the VA may pay a burial allowance of up to $2,000 (as of the latest VA publication, e.g., Fiscal Year 2026) for funeral and burial expenses.
• Non-Service-Connected Death: For veterans who died of non-service-connected causes, the VA may pay a burial allowance of up to $990 (as of the latest VA publication, e.g., Fiscal Year 2026) if they were receiving VA pension or compensation at the time of death, or if they died in a VA facility.
• Plot or Interment Allowance: For non-service-connected deaths, if the veteran is buried in a private cemetery, the VA may pay a plot or interment allowance of up to $990 (as of the latest VA publication, e.g., Fiscal Year 2026). This allowance is not paid if the veteran is buried in a national cemetery, as the plot is provided free.

These allowances are subject to change annually based on Congressional appropriations and VA policy updates. Always check the official VA website for the most current amounts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can a spouse be buried in a VA national cemetery?

Yes, an eligible veteran's spouse (current or surviving, generally not remarried) is eligible for burial in a VA national cemetery, even if the veteran is not buried there.

Is burial in a VA national cemetery free?

Yes, for eligible individuals, the gravesite or niche, opening and closing, a government headstone or marker, perpetual care, and military funeral honors are provided at no cost to the family.

What documents are needed for burial in a national cemetery?

Key documents include the veteran's discharge papers (DD-214), a certified death certificate, and proof of relationship for spouses (marriage certificate) or dependent children (birth certificate).

Can a divorced spouse be buried in a national cemetery?

Generally, no. Eligibility is for current or surviving spouses who have not remarried. A divorced spouse typically loses eligibility unless they meet specific criteria (e.g., remarried the veteran, or were a dependent child).

What is the difference between a national cemetery and a state veterans cemetery?

VA National Cemeteries are federally operated by the Department of Veterans Affairs. State Veterans Cemeteries are operated by individual states, and while they offer similar benefits, their specific eligibility rules and services may vary.

Does the VA pay for cremation services?

The VA does not directly pay for the cremation process itself (e.g., the crematory fees). However, cremated remains can be interred in a VA national cemetery free of charge, and the VA may provide burial allowances that can help offset overall funeral expenses, including cremation costs.

What is a pre-need application for burial?

A pre-need application (VA Form 40-10007) allows veterans and their eligible family members to determine their eligibility for burial in a VA national cemetery in advance, without reserving a specific plot. This helps families plan ahead.

Can I choose a specific plot or location within the national cemetery?

While you can request burial in a specific national cemetery, specific plot selection within the cemetery is generally not possible. The VA assigns gravesites based on availability.

What if the veteran died overseas?

Eligibility for burial in a VA national cemetery remains the same regardless of where the veteran died. However, the family would be responsible for the transportation of the remains to the chosen national cemetery.

Are there specific rules for Arlington National Cemetery?

Yes, Arlington National Cemetery has much stricter eligibility criteria than other VA National Cemeteries, primarily reserved for active duty service members, retired service members, and recipients of high military honors. It is managed by the Department of the Army, not the VA.

What is perpetual care in a national cemetery?

Perpetual care refers to the ongoing maintenance and upkeep of the gravesite and the entire cemetery grounds by the VA, ensuring that the resting place remains dignified and well-maintained indefinitely, at no cost to the family.

Can a veteran with a dishonorable discharge be buried in a national cemetery?

No, generally veterans must have received an honorable discharge to be eligible for burial in a VA national cemetery. Discharges characterized as dishonorable, bad conduct, or other than honorable for certain offenses typically disqualify individuals.

When to Consult a Professional

While this guide provides complete information, navigating the specifics of burial benefits can be complex. It is highly recommended to consult with professionals in the following situations:

• Funeral Director: A funeral director can assist with all aspects of funeral planning, including contacting the National Cemetery Scheduling Office, preparing necessary documents, and coordinating services.
• VA Representative: For complex eligibility questions or specific benefit inquiries, contacting the VA directly or a local VA benefits counselor is advisable.
• Veterans Service Organization (VSO): Organizations like the American Legion, VFW, or DAV have accredited representatives who can provide free assistance and advocacy for veterans and their families regarding VA benefits.

Where to Apply and Find More Information

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to official government sources:

• VA National Cemetery Administration (NCA): www.cem.va.gov
• National Cemetery Scheduling Office: To request burial at the time of death, call 1-800-535-1117.
• VA Form 40-10007 (Pre-Need Application): www.va.gov/find-forms/about-form-40-10007/
• Arlington National Cemetery: www.arlingtoncemetery.mil

Related Veterans Programs

Understanding burial benefits is one part of a broader range of support available to veterans and their families. Explore other related programs:

• VA Burial and Plot Allowances: Learn more about financial assistance for funeral and burial expenses.
• VA Survivor Benefits: Information on dependency and indemnity compensation (DIC), survivors pension, and other benefits for surviving spouses and children.
• Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Services: Explore healthcare benefits, including hospice and palliative care options for veterans.

Sources

• VA National Cemetery Administration: Eligibility
• VA National Cemetery Administration: Burial Allowances
• VA Form 40-10007: Application for Pre-Need Determination of Eligibility for Burial in a VA National Cemetery
• Arlington National Cemetery: Eligibility Requirements (PDF)