Understanding Death Benefits For Veterans

While we’re alive, we tend to focus on what we need now to survive. Will you be able to pay the mortgage? Is there enough money for food and other necessities? While these are valid concerns, it’s also important to think about the future.  What happens when you die? Will your loved ones be able to pay for your funeral expenses?

If you have served your country, it’s a good idea to understand what veterans’ benefits your family will be entitled to receive upon your passing. This will hopefully take an immense load off your loved ones and allow them to grieve properly rather than worry about finances during this difficult time.

Burial Allowances Available

The Veterans Administration (VA) offers monetary benefits at a flat rate to families of veterans.  These benefits can be used to pay for eligible funeral and burial costs. They are paid at the maximum amount allowable by law. This amounts to $2,000 for a service-connected death. For non-service-related deaths, the VA will pay up to $762 for a plot under certain conditions.

The good news is that family members can expect to receive these benefits quickly and efficiently, thanks to a law that was passed in 2004. This change helped simplify the process. In fact, surviving spouses are paid automatically once they notify the VA of the veteran’s death—no paperwork required. However, those who fill out a claim may be entitled to additional allowances to pay for the plot, burial or transportation. If there is no surviving spouse, then a family member can file a claim.

Eligibility

These benefits are available to veterans who have not been discharged under dishonorable conditions. In addition, at least one of the following requirements must be met:

• The veteran died from a service-connected disability.
• The veteran was receiving a pension or other form of compensation from the VA at the time of death.
• The veteran was entitled to receive VA compensation, but opted to receive full military retirement or disability pay instead.
• The veteran died while hospitalized or receiving care under a VA contract.
• The veteran died while being transported to or from a specified place for examination, care or treatment, at the VA’s expense.
• The veteran had a claim for VA compensation pending at the time of death and would have been approved for benefits.
• The veteran died on or after Oct. 9, 1996 at a VA-approved state nursing home.

Contact Us for More Information About VA Benefits

If your loved one was a veteran who served time in the military, you may be able to receive benefits to help cover burial expenses and funeral costs. These benefits can be extremely helpful in your time of need and make things more bearable, at least financially.

Veterans are eligible for many types of benefits. Make sure you and your family are covered. Seek legal help from the Law Office of Michael Lawrence Varon in White Plains.  We can make sure your family receives the benefits you are entitled to receive during this difficult time. Contact us at 914-294-2145 to schedule a consultation.

Resource:

nj.com/salem/index.ssf/2018/06/salem_county_veterans_corner_burial_allowances_for.html