Burials and Survivor Benefits
Federal Assistance
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers burial and memorial benefits to honor and recognize the service and sacrifice of our nation's veterans. These benefits can help ease the financial burden on families.
Available Benefits
Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Burial Allowance | Financial assistance to help cover eligible funeral, burial, plot, interment and transportation expenses |
| National Cemetery Burial | Burial in a VA national cemetery for eligible veterans, spouses and dependents |
| Government Headstone, Marker or Medallion | Provided at no cost to commemorate a veteran's service |
| U.S. Burial Flag | A U.S. flag provided to honor a veteran's military service |
| Presidential Memorial Certificate | An engraved certificate signed by the president to recognize a veteran's honorable service. |
| Pre-Need Eligibility Determination | Allows veterans and families to confirm eligibility for burial in a VA national cemetery before their time of need |
Learn more about burial and survivor benefits on the VA website.
Local Assistance
In addition to federal VA burial benefits, the Veterans Assistance Commission of Cook County (VACCC) may be able to provide financial assistance to eligible veterans and their families facing hardship related to funeral and burial expenses.
Families are encouraged to contact the VACCC as soon as possible following the loss of a loved one to determine eligibility and available assistance.
The VACCC can also help connect families with accredited Veterans Service Officers who can assist with applying for VA burial and memorial benefits.
Learn more about burial financial assistance on the VACCC website. Fill out the VACCC’s intake form for assistance.