Request a headstone or marker
VA provides qualifying government headstones or markers under the applicable burial and cemetery rules.
Who this program may help
The deceased, requesting person and burial location must meet the specific requirements.
Read official eligibility instructions1. Check what the cemetery provides
National-cemetery arrangements can differ from a private cemetery request.
Read the eligibility instructions and ask the cemetery which marker designs and installation arrangements it accepts.
Why this matters
Do not order a marker the cemetery cannot install.
The cemetery or NCA identifies the applicable process.
Official references
2. Choose the design and inscription carefully
The form specifies the marker, inscription, emblem and delivery arrangements.
Use the current form illustrations and confirm names, service dates and cemetery requirements.
Why this matters
Incorrect information can produce an incorrect inscription.
Documents for this step
- VA Form 40-1330 — Request a government headstone or marker
Applicable headstone or marker claim
required
NCA reviews the requested inscription and marker.
Official references
3. Provide the requested service and cemetery details
The application asks for evidence and delivery contacts.
Send supporting copies and obtain the consignee and cemetery information the form requires.
Why this matters
Delivery and installation need a responsible recipient.
Documents for this step
- Service document copies
Follow the current form’s supporting-evidence instructions
required - Cemetery and consignee information preparation
NCA may request corrections or additional evidence.
Official references
4. Use the NCA memorial-item destination
The form supports upload, mail or fax.
Send the signed current form and supporting copies through the supported method.
Why this matters
The compensation and pension intake addresses are different programs.
Official action:
Upload the completed marker requestKeep the upload receipt or submitted copy.
NCA reviews and arranges eligible fulfillment.
Official references
5. Coordinate receipt and installation
Delivery and installation are separate arrangements.
Follow NCA’s fulfillment instructions and confirm arrangements with the cemetery or consignee.
Why this matters
VA’s supplied marker does not make every private installation expense free.
NCA or the consignee confirms fulfillment.