What you've earned

VA Funeral & Burial Benefits

Every honorably discharged veteran has earned benefits most families never claim. Here's what's available — and how VFP makes sure nothing is left on the table.

Benefits available to all veterans

Always included — no matter what

Presidential Memorial Certificate

An engraved certificate bearing the Presidential signature, expressing the nation's gratitude for the veteran's service. Available to any honorably discharged veteran.

VA Form 40-0247

Bronze Service Medallion

A bronze medallion bearing the branch of service emblem, affixed to a privately purchased headstone or marker at no cost.

VA Form 40-1330M

Military Funeral Honors

All eligible veterans are entitled to a minimum of two uniformed military personnel — presenting the folded flag and playing Taps. Provided free by the Department of Defense.

Coordinated through DoD
Benefits based on your selections

Triggered by service history & location

VA National Cemetery — Free Burial

Eligible veterans and their spouses may be buried in a VA national cemetery at no cost — including the grave, opening and closing, liner, headstone or marker, and perpetual care.

VA Form 40-10007 (Pre-need)

Burial Allowance

A monetary allowance to help cover funeral and burial costs for veterans buried in private cemeteries. Amount estimated at ~$800 — determined by the VA at time of need.

VA Form 21P-530EZ

Government Headstone or Marker

A government-furnished headstone or grave marker at no cost for eligible veterans buried in private cemeteries.

VA Form 40-1330

DIC — Survivor BenefitCombat/Overseas

Ongoing monthly payments to the surviving spouse or dependents of veterans who served in a foreign conflict zone. This benefit is for the survivor.

VA Form 21P-534EZ
Common questions

VA benefits FAQ

Do I need my DD-214 to start pre-arranging?+

Not to start — you can begin planning without it. However, your DD-214 is required to unlock most VA benefits. If you don't have it, VFP can help you request a copy from the National Archives (takes 2–4 weeks).

How long does it take to receive VA burial benefits?+

Eligibility determinations typically take 30–90 days when pre-filed. At time of need, processing can take 2–6 months. Pre-arranging now means your family isn't waiting.

What if I was discharged "other than honorable"?+

Some benefits may still be available depending on your specific discharge characterization. VFP will review your situation individually — many veterans are eligible for more than they expect.

Can my spouse be buried with me in a VA national cemetery?+

Yes. Your spouse and dependent children are eligible to be buried in a VA national cemetery at no cost, even if they predecease the veteran.

Is there a cost to start the pre-arrangement process?+

The initial appointment and VA form preparation are completely free. There is no obligation to purchase anything. Costs only apply if you choose to fund a preneed contract.

Don't leave benefits on the table

Every veteran deserves to know what they're owed.

Start your pre-arrangement and let VFP identify every benefit you've earned — free, no obligation.

Begin your pre-arrangement ›