Veterans death benefits

Eligibility for a veterans burial allowance

To receive these VA burial benefits, you and the veteran must meet all eligibility requirements.

The veteran must have:

• Not been dishonorably discharged
• Also met another condition including: 
  • Receiving care from a VA facility, or 
  • Receiving a VA pension, or
  • Dying from a service-connected disability

You must have:

• Paid for the burial, transportation, or funeral costs
• Been a close relative to the veteran or managed their estate

Learn more about the veterans burial allowance, including:

• If you are eligible
• What costs the benefits cover
• The amount of time after a burial you have to file your claim
• How much you will receive based on when the veteran died and if the death was related to military service

If you are planning for burial at a national cemetery, find out about eligibility and how to schedule the funeral.

How to apply for veteran death benefits

If you are a surviving spouse, you do not have to file a claim for burial costs. The VA will automatically pay you a set amount after they receive notice of the veteran’s death.

Follow the VA's process to apply online for a veteran burial allowance.