Guidance for Families
How VA Burial Benefits Work
Find out how to get Veterans Burial Allowances to help cover burial, funeral, and transportation costs.
Determine Eligibility
You may be eligible if you're paying the funeral costs and you won't be reimbursed by any other organization. Additionally you may not have received a dishonorable discharge.
Determine What Benefits You Get
If eligible you may receive the VA burial allowance for burial and funeral costs, VA plot allowance for the gravesite (if not using a national cemetery), or transportation reimbursement.
Prepare Documentation
Ensure your family has all paperwork to apply: DD214, death certificate, any receipts for costs incurred, and a statement of account from the funeral director or cemetery owner.
Apply For Coverage
File a claim for a non‑service connected burial allowance within 2 years after passing. No time limit applies for a service‑connected burial allowance.
Review the Policy
Funds are distributed to surviving family dependent on claim processing at the time. Timing is not guaranteed, so ensure your family is prepared.
How much will my family get when I pass away?
As of 2023 the current VA burial allowances are as follows:
If the Veteran died as a result of a service-connected condition the max allowance is $2,000. If utilizing a national cemetery your family may be reimbursed for some or all of the transportation costs. (Casket is NOT covered)
If the Veteran died as a result of a NON service-connected condition the max allowance is $893 for burial and $893 for the plot (if not using a national cemetery).
Headstone or marker allowance is provided if NOT utilizing a national cemetery. This allowance is currently $231.
Important: The average funeral in America costs over $9,000. VA burial benefits only cover a small portion. Consider supplementing with private life insurance for veterans to ensure your family isn't burdened with unexpected costs.
How Veterans Affairs Life Insurance (VALife) Works
Veterans Affairs Life Insurance (VALife) is an insurance option accessible to veterans with service-connected disabilities.
Verify Eligibility
Guaranteed Acceptance applies if you are aged 80 or younger and have a VA service-connected disability rating ranging from 0 to 100%, or if you are 81 or older and received your disability rating within the past two years.
Waiting Assessment
VALife coverage includes a mandatory 2-year waiting period, regardless of your health condition. Choose this only if you’re unable to qualify for coverage without this waiting period.
Coverage Selection
If VALife is the most suitable option, select a benefit amount ranging from $10,000 to $40,000 in $10,000 increments. Your premium remains fixed for life.
Apply For Coverage
Apply through the VA website. You’ll need an id.me, login.gov, or DS Logon account to verify Veteran status. If needed, apply directly at your VA Clinic.
Review the Policy
After applying, the policy is sent for your review. Understand how the 2‑year waiting period functions and keep the policy in a secure location.
Need Help Understanding Your Options?
Our team specializes in helping veterans navigate both VA benefits and private insurance options. We'll help you understand what coverage makes sense for your situation — with zero pressure. See what other veterans say about working with us.
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