VA Burial Benefits Form: What forms do I need for VA burial benefits and how can I file them?

When a veteran passes away, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides monetary support to help cover burial and funeral costs.

This benefit is called the VA burial allowance.

To qualify for VA burial benefits, the veteran must have been discharged under conditions other than dishonorable and meet at least one of the following criteria:

• The veteran died due to a service-related disability.
• The veteran was receiving or entitled to receive VA pension or compensation at the time of death.
• The veteran died while hospitalized in a VA medical facility or under VA-contracted care.
• The veteran died while traveling with proper authorization at VA expense for examination, treatment, or care.
• The veteran had a pending original or re-opened claim for VA compensation or pension at the time of death.
• The veteran died on or after October 9, 1996, as a patient in a VA-approved state nursing home.

To apply for burial benefits, you will need the following information and documents about the deceased veteran:

• Social Security number or VA file number
• Date and place of birth
• Date and place of death
• Military service history
• Date of burial
• Final resting place

Additionally, you will need your personal information, such as your Social Security number, date of birth, mailing address, and contact information.

The following documents should also be provided:

• Death certificate (including the cause of death)
• Itemized receipt for transportation costs (if applicable)
• The veteran's DD214 or other separation documents

How to File for VA Burial Benefits

Here are the steps to apply for VA burial benefits:

• Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for a veterans burial allowance.

• Gather Information: Collect all required personal and veteran information, including any necessary documents.

• Download the Form: Visit the VA website to download VA Form 21P-530EZ, "Application for Burial Benefits."

• Submit the Application:

- Online: You can complete and submit the application online through the VA's burial and memorial applications portal.

- By Mail: Mail the completed form to the Department of Veterans Affairs Pension Intake Center, PO Box 5365, Janesville, WI 53547-5365.

- In-Person: Submit the form at your local VA regional benefit office.

If you have questions or need help with your application, you can:

• Visit the Ask VA (AVA) website to ask questions electronically.
• Call the VA at 800-827-1000.
• Use the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) by calling 711.
• Seek assistance from an accredited representative, such as a Veterans Service Organization (VSO).

For more information on VA benefits and services, including checking your benefit status or accessing personal records, visit the VA website at va.gov.

The site also offers self-service transactions and further guidance on requesting military service records.

Applying for VA burial benefits may seem daunting, but with the right information and resources, you can ensure that the process is as smooth as possible.