What You Need to Know About VA Burial Benefit Updates
Whether you’re planning ahead or recently experienced a loss, this guide to VA burial benefits covers what’s changed, what’s covered, and how cremation plans can help protect your family and honor your service.
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) recently increased several burial and survivor benefits to support Veterans and their families. These changes build on the historic cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) that took effect in 2023, the largest increase in three decades.
Current VA Burial Benefits at a Glance
Veterans and their families may now receive the following:
- $2,000 for a service-connected death
- $978 for a non-service-connected death (if passing occurred on or after Oct. 1, 2024)
- $978 for a plot allowance
- $231 for a headstone or marker (if not provided by the VA)
These burial allowances may be used toward cremation services or traditional burial. That includes costs related to the cremation itself, transportation, a memorial or funeral service, and placement in a national cemetery.
Burial Benefits Cover Cremation, Too
Many Veterans choose cremation to reduce costs and avoid burdening their families. The VA allows burial allowances to be used toward:
- The cremation itself
- Funeral or memorial service expenses
- A niche, urn burial, or inclusion in a scattering garden
- Transportation of the remains to a final resting place
Eligible Veterans who choose cremation can receive a government-issued headstone, marker, or plaque.
Expanded Transportation Coverage for Military Families
More military families now qualify for the VA burial transportation allowance. The VA pays to transport a Veteran’s remains from the place of death to the location of burial when:
- The Veteran’s date of death is on or after January 5, 2023
- The death and place of burial are in the United States
- The Veteran’s remains are unclaimed
- At the time of death, the Veteran received VA disability compensation, military retired pay in place of disability compensation, or VA Pension (also called Non-Service-Connected Pension)
Transportation benefits for death while in VA care are always paid if the veteran dies in a VA Medical facility or another facility approved under VA expense.
Other News in VA Benefits
- Disability compensation increased by $13 to over $300 per month, depending on the rating.
- Clothing allowance for prosthetic wear and damage is now $1,024.50 annually.
- Automobile allowance for service-connected mobility limitations is $26,417.20.
- Medal of Honor pension is now $1,712.94 monthly.
These benefits support independence, dignity, and comfort for Veterans with service-connected conditions.
Plan Ahead with Pre-Need Eligibility
Even though VA burial benefits are reimbursed after death, you can take steps now to ensure your wishes are honored. Prepaid cremation plans allow you to make decisions about your farewell in advance, lock in today’s prices, and save your family time and money. If a Veteran or a qualifying family member wants to be buried or interred in a national cemetery, funeral professionals can help determine eligibility through the VA. Planning ahead offers peace of mind and ensures your family won’t be left guessing about your wishes.
Tulip: Serving Those Who Served
Tulip is a certified Veteran’s Funeral Specialist. We are trained and certified to ensure Veterans receive all the benefits, assistance, certificates, and awards available at their passing. Tulip is committed to continually improving the support and care available to Veterans.
Tulip’s expert advice guides have everything you need about end-of-life planning. Our 24/7 care team can help you complete arrangements over the phone or online without needing to visit a funeral home. Click here for an instant quote or call (844) 942-4909.
This article was last updated in June of 2025. For the latest information on benefits, consult the VA website for any changes.