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In honor of their service to the United States of America, veterans — and their families — can receive considerable funeral and burial benefits. Specifically, qualifying individuals can have all or most of their service and interment paid for by the federal government. But, while these benefits can significantly lower costs, they require a few extra steps. As a trusted aftercare provider in Middletown, NY, Cornelius, Dodd & Connell Inc. Funeral Home highlights these important steps to include on your checklist when planning funeral services for a veteran.

5 Steps for Planning Veteran Funeral Services

1. Verify Discharge Status

Most military service members are eligible for burial benefits as long as they did not have a dishonorable discharge. To verify discharge status, locate your DD Form 214 that lists the discharge status of the veteran. If you do not have this form, call the Veterans Affairs office for a replacement. If the individual is eligible for benefits, your funeral director can help process this paperwork to collect benefits.

2. Check Cemetery Type

If you choose a national or state cemetery, the government will likely cover the cost of grave opening and closing, a specialized marker, grave liner, burial flag, and ongoing maintenance. Private cemeteries, on the other hand, are only eligible for coverage of the marker and flag — not the opening and closing of the plot.

3. Decide If Military Honors Are Desired

funeral servicesQualifying veterans are entitled to military honors at the burial, which includes a series of ceremonies and flag presentation to honor the deceased. If your loved one requested this service, tell your funeral director so that they can make the appropriate arrangements.

4. Arrange Dependent Burials 

If the deceased has a living spouse or qualifying dependent, these individuals may also receive benefits to cover the cost of future burial. As such, it’s a good idea to make funeral arrangements for surviving relatives who may want to be buried next to the deceased.

5. Estimate Additional Costs

While VA benefits can cover a large portion of aftercare expenses, they may not provide for the entire cost of funeral, burial, or cremation services. For this reason, it’s recommended that you request the burial allowance from the VA and calculate remaining costs with your funeral home.

Planning a funeral service is tough — and arranging additional items for military service can add to the burden. That’s why Cornelius, Dodd & Connell Inc. Funeral Home takes pride in providing personalized service when families wish to meaningfully honor the veterans in their lives. Visit them online to learn more about their resources or call (845) 343-2142 to speak directly with a friendly funeral director.

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