Veteran Benefits to Consider

If a loved one who has passed away was part of the armed forces, it can mean that they may have benefits. This can go a long way to helping you with the costs of the funerary arrangements and to make certain that you get the quality options that you want for them. If you are not sure about veteran benefits, here are some things that directors of funeral homes in Hanover, PA want you to keep in mind.

You want to know what the benefits are for a veteran. A veteran can be buried without cost at a national cemetery or at many state ones. It is important to note that you cannot reserve a location in advance. If you have a local cemetery that you want for your loved one, it can be a good idea to reach out to them and speak with them about the veteran benefits they may offer. In a national cemetery, a veteran is entitled to a free burial, the opening and closing of the grave, a free grave marker, perpetual care, and even a burial flag. If you are not sure about any of this, speak with the VA.

You want to also know who is eligible for these benefits. A person who has service in the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, or Air Force will be eligible. Their spouses and their small, dependent children can also get these benefits. Many times, members of the National Guard can also get these benefits if they died in the line of duty. In some instances, even the parents of veterans can get some assistance if they pass away. The person has to not have had a dishonorable discharge from service, although there are some instances in which this can also be something you can argue. You want to reach out to the VA to learn about all of the regulations and what you have to provide.

You also want to remember that the VA will not pay for the actual funeral or memorial service. They will also not cover the casket, the flowers, or even the transportation to the place of burial. In some instances, you may be able to get reimbursed for these costs from the VA, so do ask about this before you start making plans.

These are all crucial things you want to know when making funerary arrangements for a loved one who has passed away and who was a veteran. There are lots of options that can make a difference and you want to always be sure that you keep these things in mind. The VA can help you make the best choice for your loved one, so do reach out to them before making any kind of decision. You can learn more about all of these options by reaching out to a Hanover, PA funeral home like us. We are ready to help you and to guide you through all of the funerary arrangements you want to make. Give us a call right now or stop by our location today to learn more.