Military Funerals and Burial Assistance for Veterans
When you or a loved one serves as part of the United States Armed Services, there are certain death benefits and assistance you become eligible for. Navigating the system can be difficult if you’re reeling from a sudden loss, and there may be certain funds that you have to seek out to receive, so it’s a good idea to look into all your options. Any help you can get during this difficult time is worth considering—especially if your loved one served the country in any capacity.
- Follow us here for information on what a military funeral entails, including whether or not the deceased is eligible and what you can expect from the planning process.
- If you suspect you might be eligible for veteran’s benefits (whether this means burial assistance or longer-term pension support), it’s suggested that you contact the proper authorities and look into additional government organizations that provide relief.
- Resources to help pay for funerals exist for people of every background, but especially military families. You may be able to receive a small stipend to help cover the cost of burial for your loved one.
- The United States National Cemetery Administration is an organization that not only helps to bury veterans and other service members, but that also provides a place to tour the graves of our fallen soldiers.
- Military funeral protection laws ensure that your loved one receives the respect he or she deserves. If you have any concerns about the safety of a funeral, be sure and contact the proper authorities.
As always, you can visit the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs if you’re uncertain about what types of benefits you can receive and how to apply for them. In addition to having local offices, you should be able to contact someone online to get the answers you seek.
Most funeral homes can also provide some guidance regarding military benefits. Because funeral directors often work with families of service members—up to and including coordinating with military cemeteries—they should be able to answer questions and direct you toward resources in your area.
Please share your thoughts on this article
Related articles
Importance of Pre-Planning and End-of-Life Discussions with Family
Conversations about death are never easy – and conversations about your own death are even more complicated. Not only are there financial issues to bring up (a tricky subject in many families), but there is no way to talk about your end-of-life... more »
Herbal Funeral Flowers
One of the biggest trends in the funeral planning industry is to find ways to combine the traditions we’ve all come to recognize with more earth-friendly memorial options. From cremation to direct burial, there are dozens of ways you ... more »
What to Expect from a Traditional Catholic Funeral
Catholic funerals are some of the most ornate in terms of tradition, regulation, and procedure. Although the church has loosened some of its rules in recent years (and most will allow burial alternatives like cremation), you can still expect there to... more »
