When a veteran passes away, the United States government provides some financial assistance to help cover the costs of their funeral. Here’s a breakdown of what’s covered and who pays:
VA Death Benefits
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers two types of death benefits to help with funeral expenses:
- Burial Allowance: The VA provides a burial allowance to help cover funeral and burial costs. The amount of the allowance varies depending on the circumstances of the veteran’s death. Currently, the allowance is:
- $2,000 for a service-connected death
- $1,500 for a non-service-connected death
- $300 for a plot allowance (if not buried in a national cemetery)
- Headstone or Marker: The VA also provides a headstone or marker for the veteran’s grave, free of charge.
Other Sources of Financial Assistance
In addition to the VA death benefits, there are other sources of financial assistance that may be available:
- Social Security Administration (SSA): The SSA provides a one-time death benefit of $255 to the surviving spouse or child.
- Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs): Some VSOs, such as the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and Disabled American Veterans, offer financial assistance for funeral expenses.
- State and Local Governments: Some states and local governments offer additional financial assistance for funeral expenses.
- Private Insurance: If the veteran had private life insurance, the beneficiary may be able to use the policy to help cover funeral expenses.
Who Pays for the Funeral?
The family of the deceased veteran is typically responsible for paying for the funeral and burial expenses upfront. However, they can then submit a claim to the VA and other organizations to receive reimbursement for eligible expenses.
It’s essential to note that the VA does not pay for funeral expenses directly to the funeral home or cemetery. Instead, the family must pay for the services and then seek reimbursement from the VA and other organizations.