All Honorably discharged Veterans who have met the VA requirements, their spouse and dependent children are entitled to free grave space, opening and closing, grave liner and perpetual care in a National Cemetery. This benefit can save Veterans’ families thousands of dollars and applies to those choosing burial or cremation.
Service Connected Death: If the Veteran is receiving a 100% service connected disability pension, the VA will pay up to $2000 toward cremation and burial expenses.
Non-Service Connected Death: For Veterans receiving a service connected disability pension (less than 100%), the VA will pay up to $1400 toward cremation and burial expenses.
Veterans in the Care of a VA Medical Center: If the death happened while the Veteran was hospitalized by the VA or under VA contracted nursing home care, some or all of the costs for transporting the Veteran’s remains may be reimbursed.