Military Funeral Benefits: Where Do I Start?

If your loved one served in the U.S. Armed Forces, they may be eligible for a range of funeral benefits, including cremation services. These include ceremonial honors, financial help, and burial in a national or private cemetery.

Whether you're planning ahead for yourself or honoring a Veteran who has passed, here is a step-by-step guide to accessing the benefits and tributes from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). 

Who Qualifies for Military Funeral Benefits?

The VA offers funeral benefits to:

• Veterans who received an honorable or general discharge (dishonorable discharges are ineligible)
• Members of the Reserves or National Guard who meet active duty requirements
• Spouses and eligible dependents of qualifying Veterans (for burial in a national cemetery)

Additional benefits may be available based on service-connected disabilities, VA pension status, or whether the Veteran was hospitalized by the VA at the time of death.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Military Funeral Benefits

1. Gather Military Service Records

Start by locating the Veteran’s DD214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty). If it’s missing, request it using Form SF-180.

2. Identify the Final Disposition 

Decide whether you (or your loved one) wants burial or cremation. Please note that you may access military honors, such as playing Taps at a memorial or a burial flag, even if you choose simple cremation. Another option is human composting. 

Whether you choose burial or cremation, or something else, your funeral provider can connect you with nonprofit groups that specialize in honoring Veterans, such as the Patriot Guard Riders or Taps for Veterans.

3. Choose a Permanent Memorial

• National Cemetery: The VA covers the cost of the gravesite, including the opening and closing of the grave (or cremation niche), headstone or marker, and perpetual care. For estate planning, you can apply for pre-eligibility to confirm your loved one qualifies for burial in a national cemetery.
• Private Cemetery: The VA provides a government-issued headstone or marker, a burial flag, and limited financial reimbursement to eligible Veterans.
• Other Memorials: Some families honor their Veterans with burial at sea, cremation jewelry, memorial gemstones, or the preservation of remains through services like Parting Stone.

4. Explore Prepaid Plans

Prepaid cremation plans can ensure your wishes are documented and honored with full military recognition. While VA funeral benefits cover many essential costs, paying in advance lets you lock in today’s prices and add personalized touches or upgraded services.

5. Contact a Funeral Provider Who Understands Veterans’ Needs

A certified Veterans Funeral Specialist, like Tulip, can guide you through the process and ensure no benefit is overlooked.

What Military Funeral Benefits Are Available?

Veterans and, in some cases, their spouses and dependents may qualify for:

• A United States burial flag (with a flag-folding ceremony by an honor guard)
• Playing of Taps (live or recorded) accompanied by two active duty members of the Veterans’ branch of service
• A government-issued headstone, marker, or medallion
• A Presidential Memorial Certificate
• Burial or interment in a national cemetery
• Financial reimbursement toward funeral or cremation expenses

The type and amount of support depend on where the Veteran is laid to rest and whether the death was service-related.

While the VA doesn’t cover the cost of the plot or cemetery fees at a private cemetery, financial support may still be available, especially for Veterans who were receiving a VA pension or who died from a service-connected condition.

Why Prepaid Cremation Plans Are a Smart Choice for Veterans

Planning ahead helps relieve your family from future decisions and expenses. Prepaid cremation plans allow Veterans to:

• Lock in today’s rates
• Make their wishes known
• Ensure access to all earned benefits and honors
• Choose direct cremation for the simplest, most affordable option without sacrificing military funeral honors and burial in a national cemetery

Let Tulip Help You Honor a Life of Service

As a certified Veterans Funeral Specialist, Tulip Cremation helps Veterans and their families understand and apply for every benefit they’ve earned. We support those planning for the future and those facing a loss today.

Tulip is here to make it easier to ensure your loved one receives the dignity and recognition they deserve. Click here if you’re ready to get started.