Cemetery and Burial Services and Resources

Planning for end-of-life arrangements is never easy, but having clear information about cemetery and burial services ensures that veterans and their families receive the honor, dignity, and support they deserve. Veterans have earned a range of burial benefits through their service, including interment in national or state veterans cemeteries, military funeral honors, grave markers, and financial assistance for eligible families. Understanding these options in advance can bring comfort, reduce stress during moments of grief, and help families make informed decisions that reflect the veteran’s wishes.


Cemetery and burial resources guide families through processes such as applying for burial in a VA national cemetery, obtaining a government-issued headstone or marker, securing burial flags, and coordinating military honors with service branches. These services also help veterans document their eligibility, locate cemeteries, and prepare the necessary forms before they are needed.


For those navigating private burial arrangements, resources are available to explain reimbursements, plot allowances, and documentation requirements. Many organizations also provide grief support, planning assistance, and help families understand how VA benefits interact with funeral home services.


This section ensures that veterans and their loved ones have access to compassionate guidance, clear information, and the full range of honors earned through service—ensuring every veteran’s final resting place reflects respect, gratitude, and lasting remembrance.


Listings of Resources and Assistance for Deceased Veterans

  • Headstones for Veterans

    Government & Official Programs


    U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) – National Cemetery Administration

    Provides, upon request and at no cost to the applicant, a government‐headstone, marker, or medallion for eligible veterans in unmarked graves anywhere in the world. 


    VA Burial Benefits & Memorial Items

    Under this program, survivors or family members can apply for memorial items like headstones, markers, plaques, or urns through VA. Veterans Affairs


    National Cemetery Administration: Cemetery Restoration / Unmarked Graves Initiatives

    The VA works with community groups to identify unmarked veteran graves in private historic cemeteries and helps with providing headstones or markers.


    State Veterans Cemeteries & State Veterans Affairs Departments

    Many states have veterans’ cemeteries or offices that coordinate with the VA to provide headstones/markers for deceased veterans. Check for your particular state. The link provided is for MAINE


    Non-Profit / Charitable Organizations


    Last Post Fund (Canada)

    A Canadian nonprofit that ensures no Canadian (or allied) veteran is denied a dignified funeral and burial, including provision of military gravestones for eligible veterans, especially in cases of unmarked graves. 


    Churches/Charitable Coalitions / Funeral Assistance Charities

    There exist charities in many U.S. communities that help families with funeral expenses, which may include assistance with headstones.