Understanding VA Burial Benefits for Spouses of Veterans

Losing a loved one is never easy, and for families of veterans, understanding the benefits available can ease some of the burdens during difficult times. Many people wonder if a veteran's spouse can receive burial benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). This post explains how VA burial benefits work for spouses, what is covered, and how to apply for these important services.

What Are VA Burial Benefits?

VA burial benefits provide eligible veterans and their families with support for funeral and burial costs. These benefits can include burial in a national cemetery, a government-provided headstone or marker, a burial allowance, and other services. The goal is to honor veterans and their families by helping with the financial and logistical challenges of burial.

Eligibility for Spouses

Spouses of veterans may qualify for VA burial benefits, but eligibility depends on several factors:

• The veteran must have been discharged under conditions other than dishonorable.

• The spouse must have been legally married to the veteran at the time of the veteran’s death.

• The veteran’s death may or may not be service connected; some benefits apply regardless of cause of death.

  
  

If the veteran is eligible, the spouse can receive many of the same burial benefits, including burial in a national cemetery and a government-furnished headstone or marker.

Burial in a National Cemetery

One of the most significant benefits for spouses is the option to be buried in a national cemetery alongside the veteran. This includes:

• A gravesite in a national or state veterans cemetery.

• Perpetual care of the gravesite.

• A government-provided headstone or marker.

  
  

Spouses who are buried in a national cemetery do not pay for the gravesite or the opening and closing of the grave. This benefit provides peace of mind knowing the spouse will rest in a dignified and well-maintained location.

Headstones, Markers, and Medallions

The VA provides headstones, markers, or medallions at no cost to eligible spouses. These items can be used in national cemeteries, private cemeteries, or other burial locations. The style and inscription options vary, but the VA ensures the marker honors the veteran and spouse appropriately.

Burial Allowances

The VA offers burial allowances to help cover some funeral costs. These allowances are paid to the person who paid for the burial and can include:

• A burial allowance for a veteran who died from a service-connected disability.

• A plot allowance if the veteran was not buried in a national cemetery.

• A small burial allowance for non-service-connected deaths under certain conditions.

  
  

Spouses may be eligible to receive these allowances if they paid for the veteran’s burial or if the spouse is the veteran’s surviving spouse and paid for their own burial.

Eligibility for Surviving Spouses

Surviving spouses of veterans may also qualify for burial benefits if they meet specific criteria:

• The spouse was married to the veteran at the time of death.

• The spouse has not remarried after the veteran’s death (with some exceptions for remarriage after age 57).

• The spouse applies for burial benefits through the VA.

  
  

If eligible, the surviving spouse can be buried in a national cemetery and receive a government-furnished headstone or marker.

How to Apply for VA Burial Benefits

Applying for VA burial benefits involves submitting the proper documentation and forms. Here are the key steps:

1. Gather Required Documents

   • Veteran’s discharge papers (DD214 or equivalent).

   • Marriage certificate proving the spouse’s relationship.

   • Death certificate of the veteran and/or spouse.

   
   

   • Use VA Form 21P-530, Application for Burial Benefits.

   • For headstones or markers, use VA Form 40-1330.

2. Complete the Application

   
   

3. Submit the Application

   • Applications can be submitted online, by mail, or through a VA regional office.

   
   

   • Funeral directors often assist with VA burial benefits paperwork.

   • National cemeteries have staff to help arrange burial and marker placement.

4. Coordinate with Funeral Home or Cemetery

   
   

Important Considerations

• Remarriage: If a surviving spouse remarries before age 57, they generally lose eligibility for burial in a national cemetery. Remarriage after age 57 may not affect eligibility.

• Dependent Children: Children of veterans may also qualify for burial benefits under certain conditions.

• State Veterans Cemeteries: Many states operate veterans cemeteries with similar benefits to national cemeteries.

• Non-Service-Connected Deaths: Some benefits apply even if the veteran’s death was not related to military service.

  
  

Examples of VA Burial Benefits in Action

• A veteran’s spouse who passes away years after the veteran can be buried next to them in a national cemetery with a government-provided headstone, at no cost.

• A surviving spouse who pays for their own burial may apply for a burial allowance to help cover expenses.

• Families who choose private cemetery burial can still receive a VA headstone or marker for the veteran and spouse.

  
  

Final Thoughts on VA Burial Benefits for Spouses

Understanding VA burial benefits can provide comfort and clarity during a difficult time. Spouses of veterans have access to meaningful support that honors their loved one’s service and helps with burial costs. If you are the spouse of a veteran or assisting a family, take time to review eligibility and apply for benefits early. This ensures access to the full range of services available and helps preserve the dignity of your veteran’s legacy.