Veteran cremation benefits are payments from the VA (the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs) that help cover part of cremation or burial costs. Many families believe the VA pays the full amount, but it usually provides only partial reimbursement.

This confusion often leaves families unprepared for the actual expenses. You may have questions about free cremation for veterans, or you may want to know: Does the VA pay for cremation?

This article explains the cost of cremation for veterans, what the VA pays for, what it doesn’t, and what affordable alternatives families can consider when arranging cremation services.

Not sure whether a cremation at After is the right path? Our team is here to guide you through your options with transparency, care, and zero pressure. You can call us 24/7 at 1-844-717-5170.

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What VA Cremation Benefits Are Available and Does the VA Pay?

The VA provides limited financial assistance for cremation and burial expenses, known as burial allowances. These are reimbursements, not full payments. They help offset the costs of funeral services, cremation, or interment.

The VA does cover:

• A burial allowance to help with funeral or cremation costs
• A plot or interment allowance if the burial is in a national cemetery
• Transportation reimbursement for moving the remains to a national cemetery
• Headstone or marker, burial flag, and Presidential Memorial Certificate

However, the VA does not cover:

• The full cost of cremation or funeral services
• Private cemetery fees (unless reimbursable under the plot allowance)
• Embalming, caskets, or urns
• Funeral home service fees beyond the allowance limits

A burial allowance is a one-time payment to help with expenses. The amount depends on when and how the veteran passed away:

• For service-connected deaths, families can receive up to $2,000.
• For non-service-connected deaths after October 1, 2024, the VA pays $978 for burial and $978 for a plot.
• For those buried in a VA national cemetery, the government may also cover transportation costs for the remains.
  

They typically issue these payments as reimbursements, meaning families must first pay out of pocket and then file a claim to receive funds.

Eligibility Criteria and Reimbursement Rules

To qualify for VA cremation or burial benefits, all of the following must apply:

• The veteran did not receive a dishonorable discharge.
• The person applying (spouse, child, executor, or authorized representative) is responsible for funeral or cremation costs.
• They don’t reimburse these costs through another organization, insurer, or employer benefit.

Common Exclusions Families Should Know

The VA won’t provide burial allowances if the individual:

• Died on active duty
• Died while serving in Congress or a federal prison sentence
• Already received full coverage from another government program or employer

Families should also note that benefits aren’t automatic (except for surviving spouses listed in VA records). They must file claims within two years of the veteran’s cremation or burial, using VA Form 21P-530EZ.

How Much Does Cremation Cost for Veterans?

Cremation costs for veterans depend on the type of service, location, and provider. Across the U.S., cremation typically costs between $2000 to $5000. The main difference lies in whether families choose direct cremation or a full-service cremation that includes a ceremony or viewing.

Direct Cremation vs. Full-Service Cremation

Direct cremation is the simplest and most affordable option. The provider transports your loved one, completes the cremation, and returns the remains. This choice doesn’t include embalming, a viewing, or a funeral ceremony.

At the lower end, families can expect to pay $1,000 to $1,500, depending on where they live. Cremation with a service includes additional costs for body preparation, facility use, staff, and sometimes casket rental.

These packages usually range from $4,000 to $7,000 or more. Families often choose this option when they want time for remembrance or a formal gathering.

Cost of Cremation for Veterans

VA burial allowances can help reduce cremation and funeral expenses, but they do not cover full cremation costs. For example:

• For service-connected deaths, families can receive up to $2,000 in reimbursement.
• For non-service-connected deaths after October 1, 2024, the VA pays $978 for burial and $978 for a plot allowance.
• The VA may also reimburse transportation costs if they move the veteran’s remains to a national cemetery

These benefits help offset costs but don’t usually eliminate the family’s financial responsibility. Most families still face out-of-pocket costs even after receiving VA burial allowances.

These include basic service fees for funeral homes, transportation of remains, and third-party cremation charges. On average, the non-declinable service fee alone costs around $2,300, while removal and transfer of remains add about $350. Embalming averages at $775, and other preparation tasks cost about $275.

With those items, the total can reach $6,900 or more. Choosing a direct cremation through an online provider like After can significantly lower these costs.

After’s packages start at $995, covering transportation, permits, paperwork, and care coordination. This helps families avoid unnecessary expenses while maintaining dignity and peace of mind.

Are There Free Cremation Options for Veterans?

No, there aren’t “free” cremation options for veterans. However, there are programs that may cover part of the total expenses:

• Many states offer support through veterans service departments or state-run cemeteries, which may handle the cost of interment or provide a plot at no charge.
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• Some nonprofits and local community organizations also help fund cremation for unclaimed or low-income veterans. 
  
  For example, regional veteran assistance networks sometimes coordinate with funeral homes to cover the cost of cremation or provide basic urns and flag ceremonies at no cost to the family.

• Certain funeral homes partner with veteran organizations like the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) or the American Legion to offer discounted or donated cremation services. 
  
  These arrangements depend on local availability and funding and are often limited to veterans who meet specific income or eligibility criteria.

It’s important for families to understand that “free” cremation rarely includes every step of the process. Programs might pay for the cremation itself but not transportation, permits, or death certificates.

In some cases, benefits only apply when families inter the remains in a VA national or state veterans cemetery, not when families choose private memorial arrangements.

What Burial and Memorial Options Exist for Veterans?

Veterans have several honorable and often no-cost burial and memorial options provided by the VA and state veteran cemeteries. These VA funeral benefits extend to both traditional burials and cremations.

Arlington National Cemetery Eligibility

Burial or inurnment at Arlington National Cemetery is for service members who meet strict eligibility criteria. This includes veterans who:

• Died on active duty,
• Received a Medal of Honor, Silver Star, or Purple Heart,
• Served as a former prisoner of war, or
• Retired from active military service.

Spouses and dependent children may also qualify for placement alongside the veteran, depending on available space and eligibility confirmation.

VA National and State Veterans Cemeteries

The VA operates over 140 national cemeteries across the United States, while many states maintain their own state-run veterans cemeteries. Burial in a VA national cemetery includes: 

• A free gravesite or columbarium niche
• Opening and closing of the grave
• Perpetual care
• A government-furnished headstone or marker
• A burial flag and Presidential Memorial Certificate honoring the veteran’s service

Families choosing a state veterans cemetery may find similar benefits, though eligibility and space availability vary. Some states may charge small administrative fees or restrict eligibility to residents or those who served in the state’s National Guard.

In case of cremation, families may place remains in a columbarium niche, have a burial in a national or state veterans cemetery, or opt to scatter remains.

The VA covers the cost of the interment site, niche, and marker, but families are responsible for transportation to the cemetery and any private memorial services.

How Can Families Apply for VA Cremation and Burial Benefits?

Families can apply for VA burial and cremation benefits online, by mail, or through a local VA office. These benefits reimburse part of the cost for cremation, burial, or transportation when the person meets eligibility requirements.

When filing, families must include the following documents. You can download the forms directly from the VA website:

• The veteran’s death certificate (listing cause of death)
• A copy of the veteran’s DD214 or discharge papers
• Itemized receipts for any expenses paid, such as transportation or cremation fees
• Proof of relationship if applying as a spouse, child, or executor
• Any relevant medical or service-related records (for service-connected deaths)

The VA processes benefit claims once it receives all these documents. Most families get reimbursement within six to eight weeks, though it may take longer if the VA requests more documentation.

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For surviving spouses already listed in the VA system, the VA automatically pays certain burial benefits.

What to do if VA Coverage Isn’t Enough?

You have other options if VA coverage isn’t enough. It’s common that many families still need help covering the remaining cremation or funeral costs. 

These alternatives can help reduce financial strain and make arrangements more manageable:

• Affordable direct cremation services: A direct cremation service can significantly lower costs. Providers like After offer packages starting at $995, including transportation, permits, paperwork, and care coordination. This approach removes many of the traditional expenses tied to funerals while maintaining dignity and compassion.

• Prepaid cremation services: Prepaid cremation lets families lock in current prices and protect against future cost increases. It sets aside funds for later use, which helps the family avoid unexpected bills. 

• Funeral insurance and final expense policies: Final expense insurance policies provide dedicated funds for cremation or burial costs. They are typically easier to qualify for than larger life insurance plans and pay out faster. They help families access funds when they need them the most.

• Nonprofits and veteran support organizations: Look up the local Catholic Charities and The TEARS Foundation. Their programs may cover cremation, provide financial aid, or help with expenses such as transportation or memorials.

• Crowdfunding and community help: Online fundraising platforms like GoFundMe or Lilypay can help families quickly raise money to cover costs. Through Lilypay, we offer flexible payment plans and the ability to set up a crowdfunding page through Lilypay Community Gardens.
  
  This makes it easier to manage payments over time while keeping arrangements affordable and stress-free.

After also offers prepaid cremation plans for those planning ahead or entering hospice care.

Get Affordable Cremation Options

Are you planning a cremation for a veteran or loved one? After can help you handle everything with clarity and care.

Our dedicated care specialists are available 24/7 to answer your questions about the cost of cremation for veterans. We’ll walk you through each step of the process to plan a cremation.

Whether you need immediate cremation services or expect a passing soon, we provide transparent pricing, simple packages, and compassionate guidance.

Visit our Immediate Services page or call us 24/7 at 1-844-717-5170 to speak with a care specialist who can help you make arrangements right away.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Free Cremation Options For Veterans?

There are free cremation options for some veterans. They may qualify for free cremation through state programs, nonprofits, or VA-partnered funeral homes. 

These programs usually cover basic cremation costs, while families handle permits, transportation, or documents.

Can Families Arrange Cremation And Burial For Veterans In Arlington National Cemetery?

Veterans who meet Arlington’s eligibility rules can have a cremation or burial there. The cemetery provides the site, care, and military honors when eligible.

What Paperwork Do Families Need To Apply For VA Cremation Benefits?

The paperwork that families need to apply are the veteran’s DD214, death certificate, and VA Form 21P-530EZ. They also submit receipts and proof of relationship to confirm eligibility.

How Long Does It Take To Receive VA Cremation Reimbursement?

It takes around 6 to 8 weeks to receive VA cremation reimbursements. Claims move faster when families include complete records upfront.

Are Spouses Eligible For The Same Cremation Or Burial Benefits?

Eligible spouses qualify for the same burial honors and placement as veterans. They can share a gravesite or columbarium niche in a VA or state veterans cemetery at no cost.

What Happens If A Veteran Doesn’t Qualify For VA Cremation Assistance?

If a veteran doesn’t qualify for VA cremation assistance, families can turn to After for affordable direct cremation, use Lilypay payment plans, or seek help from nonprofits that support veterans with end-of-life costs.