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What funeral benefits do veterans have for cremation services?

Tukios Websites • May 7, 2024

VA memorial benefits

VA takes special care to pay lasting tribute to the memory of Veterans who served and sacrificed and that of their families. VA meticulously maintains 155 VA national cemeteries in 44 states and Puerto Rico and is working to increase access to accommodate Veterans and eligible family members close to home. Currently, more than 94 percent of Veterans have a burial option in an open VA, state or tribal veterans cemetery located within 75 miles of their home.


Note that most if not all of these benefits may be provided for Veterans who are interred in a State, Territorial or Tribal Veterans cemetery. Check with the cemetery to ensure coverage. Some benefits are also available for Veterans who choose burial in a private cemetery.


Veterans with a qualifying discharge are entitled to VA burial benefits. Spouses and dependent children are eligible too, even if they predecease the Veteran.


The following burial benefits may be provided:

View VA website
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Burial in a VA national cemetery

  • Opening and closing of the grave for burial of casketed or cremated remains, or placement of cremated remains in an above-ground vault, also called a columbarium
  • A government furnished grave liner
  • Perpetual care of the gravesite
  • A headstone or marker with an inscription
  • A burial flag
  • A Presidential Memorial Certificate
  • A dedicated memorial page on the Veterans Legacy Memorial site where friends and family can upload photos and remembrances

Burial in a private cemetery

  • A government headstone, marker, or medallion
  • A burial flag
  • A Presidential Memorial Certificate
  • Some survivors may also be entitled to VA burial allowances as partial reimbursement for the costs of funerals and burials for eligible Veterans
  • Please note that gravesites in a VA national cemetery cannot be reserved in advance. To prepare for a private cemetery burial, VA suggests families review these questions and complete required forms in advance.

VA requirements

Discharge papers to establish your eligibility for burial services.


View the VA website here

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Green burial versus cremation

By Tukios Websites • May 8, 2024
Green burials and cremations stand out as popular alternatives for those looking to leave a lighter footprint on the earth. This post explores the differences between these two eco-conscious end-of-life practices.
A blue urn sitting on top of a table next to yellow roses.

What is cremation? How does it actually work?

By Tukios Websites • May 7, 2024
Cremation is a method of final disposition that involves reducing the body of the deceased to bone fragments through high heat and flame in a specially designed furnace called a cremator. Here's a step-by-step explanation of the process
A man and a woman are hugging each other on a balcony at sunset.

Advice for feelings of grief

By Tukios Websites • May 7, 2024
Online resources include discussion forums, educational tools, and a community for people who are dealing with grief. You may find one or more of the following websites to be helpful:
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Can you pre-plan cremation?

By Tukios Websites • May 7, 2024
In recent years, cremation has become an increasingly popular choice for end-of-life arrangements. With its flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and environmental considerations, it's no surprise that many families are choosing cremation. But beyond the decision to choose cremation, there's another important consideration—pre-planning
A urn is sitting on a table next to candles.

Should I do Direct Cremation or have a ceremony?

By Tukios Websites • April 26, 2024
Direct cremation is a simplified option where the deceased is cremated shortly after death, without a formal ceremony or viewing. It tends to be more cost-effective and efficient, allowing families to focus on memorialization at their own pace. On the other hand, a cremation ceremony with family present provides an opportunity for loved ones to gather, honor the life of the deceased, and find closure through shared rituals and support.
A close up of a body of water at sunset.

What is Aquamation? Flameless cremation option for families.

By Tukios Websites • April 26, 2024
Aquamation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis or water cremation, is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional cremation. While cremation uses intense heat to reduce the body to ashes, aquamation utilizes a combination of water, alkaline chemicals, and heat to accelerate the natural process of decomposition.
A close up of a diamond necklace on a table.

Unique ways to honor your loved one after cremation.

By Tukios Websites • April 26, 2024
There are many unique cremation options offered to families to honor their loved ones in deeply personal and innovative ways. Cremation jewelry, crafted from the ashes of the deceased, serves as a wearable keepsake, allowing loved ones to carry a tangible connection wherever they go.
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