Veteran burial in a national cemetery

Keep in mind that the VA cannot guarantee burial in a specific cemetery.

Eligibility for burial in a national cemetery

To qualify for burial in a national cemetery, a veteran or their dependents must meet the VA’s eligibility requirements. 

Pre-apply for burial in a national cemetery

You can find out in advance if you can be buried in a national cemetery. Follow the steps to apply for pre-need eligibility for burial in a VA national cemetery.

You may apply online or mail your application to:

NCA Intake Center
P.O. Box 5237
Janesville, WI 53547

If the VA approves your application, you will receive a pre-need decision letter. Share this letter with your family to make the burial process easier. 

Schedule burial in a national cemetery

The process to schedule burial depends on if the deceased person received a pre-need decision letter. 

Scheduling with a pre-need decision letter

If there is a pre-need letter, a loved one or funeral director can request the burial. Call the National Cemetery Scheduling Office at 1-800-535-1117.

Scheduling without a pre-need decision letter

Without a pre-need letter, follow the VA’s three steps to schedule a burial.