Apply for burial expense benefits
VA may pay an allowance for qualifying burial, plot or transportation costs.
Who this program may help
The applicant’s role, unreimbursed expenses and the Veteran’s death circumstances must meet VA’s requirements.
Read official eligibility instructions1. Check which expenses and circumstances qualify
Burial, plot and transport rules differ.
Read the requirements for the death and the expenses you paid. Check any automatic surviving-spouse payment before submitting a duplicate request.
Why this matters
Eligibility for a cemetery is a separate decision.
VA reviews the applicable allowance and prior payment.
Official references
2. Check the rule for the expense you are claiming
The ordinary non-service-connected burial rule is two years after burial.
Read the exceptions for service-connected death, death under VA care, plot or interment, transportation and changed discharge status.
Why this matters
A blanket two-year deadline would misstate some claims.
Use the expense-specific rule; this guide does not calculate a legal deadline.
VA applies the rule to the actual claim.
Official references
3. Collect the applicable copies and receipts
Evidence depends on what you are claiming.
Use death evidence and transportation receipts when applicable; provide available service documents.
Why this matters
Transportation reimbursement needs proof of the expense you paid.
Documents for this step
- Death certificate including cause of death
As requested for the claim
conditional - Itemized transportation receipt
You paid transportation costs
conditional - Available DD214 or separation documents recommended
- VA Form 21-4142 — Authorize a private-records request
Authorizing VA to obtain applicable private records
conditional - VA Form 21-4142a — List private providers
Provider details for the private-record request
conditional
VA may obtain identified records or request more information.
Medical evidence
For a service-connected death claim, VA recommends supporting medical records. You can identify VA or federal treatment or authorize private records; purchasing a medical opinion is not a universal requirement.
Official references
4. Apply online or mail the burial application
The official application is VA Form 21P-530EZ.
Use VA’s online application or send the completed form and supporting copies.
Why this matters
The Pension Intake Center accepts this burial claim.
Documents for this step
- VA Form 21P-530EZ — Apply for burial benefits
Paper burial expense application
alternative
Official action:
Continue to VA to apply for burial benefitsKeep the submission confirmation and application copy.
VA reviews the application and may request additional evidence.
Official references
5. Read the allowance decision
A payment may cover only a particular expense category.
Compare the decision with the expenses claimed and follow any review instructions.
Why this matters
A payment is not confirmation that a cemetery service was scheduled.
Keep the decision and payment records.
VA explains the decided allowance.