When people plan a funeral or burial, they often have a number of questions. If they are a veteran, for example, they may wonder what VA benefits cover the price of their funeral. They may also wonder what benefits are available from Social Security.
Burial Flags from the VA
If you are a veteran who wishes to have a burial service, burial flags are available. The VA supplies an American flag to drape over the casket for a veteran or a person who is entitled to retired military pay. After the service, the flag can be presented to a close friend or next of kin. The VA will also issue a flag on behalf of a military service member who is missing in action and is later presumed to be dead. The flags are issued at Veteran Administration regional offices, posts offices, and national cemeteries.
A burial service for a veteran can also be arranged in a VA national cemetery. Burial benefits cover the grave site, the opening and closing of the grave, and perpetual care. Many national cemeteries also offer a columbaria for the inurnment of cremated remains. In addition, gravesites are offered for the burial of cremated remains.
Eligible Candidates
Therefore, if you are a veteran, you can arrange a burial service whether you are buried or cremated. Any veterans or active service members who die during active duty are eligible for burial in one of the Veteran Administration’s national cemeteries. An eligible veteran is someone who was separated or discharged from active duty under general or honorable circumstances. They also must have completed the prerequisite period of service.
In addition, minor children or spouses of eligible veterans or members of the armed forces may also be buried in a national cemetery. So, if you are pre-planning your funeral and are a veteran, armed services member, or a close family member of a veteran or armed services member, these facts are important to keep in mind. You can also follow them on Google+ for more updates.
