Military service is one of the most honorable commitments a person can make to their country, and the United States offers various benefits to ensure that veterans receive recognition even after their passing. One of these honors is a military funeral, but not all veterans are automatically eligible for such services.
The Department of Veterans Affairs and the Defense Department are responsible for ensuring that fallen veterans receive an honorable burial, which they deserve. This reflects the nation’s deep appreciation for the sacrifices made by those who serve in the military.
As stated by the Defense Department, “It is Defense Department policy that all service members’ remains are handled with dignity, honor, and respect.”
Who is eligible for a military funeral?
A military funeral is a ceremonial service to honor veterans who have served in the US Armed Forces. It typically includes traditions like folding the American flag, a rifle volley, and playing “taps.” However, not every veteran is eligible for a military funeral.
To qualify for a military funeral, a veteran must meet certain criteria:
- Discharge status: The veteran must have been discharged under an honorable condition. Veterans who received a dishonorable discharge are not eligible for military funeral honors.
- Service requirements: Veterans who served on active duty, in the Selected Reserve, or completed at least one enlistment or term of service are typically eligible for military honors. Additionally, members of the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) who died while undergoing training, National Guard members who died while on active duty, and veterans receiving a pension or disability compensation from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) are eligible.
- Eligibility of deceased service members: Service members who died on active duty, veterans who were receiving VA pension or disability compensation at the time of their death, and those who would have been eligible for VA compensation but chose to receive military retired pay are eligible for military funeral honors.
How to apply for VA burial benefits
Applying for VA burial benefits can be done online or by mail. Here’s how to apply:
- Online application: The VA offers an online application process for burial benefits. The form has been updated recently, so if you started applying before May 23, 2024, you may need to provide additional information. You can access the online application on the VA’s official website.
- By Mail: If you prefer to apply by mail, fill out the Application for Burial Benefits form (VA Form 21P-530EZ) and mail it along with supporting documents to the VA’s Pension Intake Center in Janesville, Wisconsin.
- Mailing Address:
Department of Veterans Affairs
Pension Intake Center
PO Box 5365
Janesville, WI 53547-5365
- Mailing Address:
What if I have more questions?
Call us at 800-827-1000 (TTY: 711). We’re here Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. ET. Or call your VA regional office.
