What does the Veterans’ Administration benefit include?
Survivors may be eligible for a lump sum payment of $300 for burial expenses, an allowance of
$300 toward a burial plot, burial in a national cemetery, a government headstone or marker, and a
burial flag.
Who administers the program?
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
What determines eligibility?
The firefighter must have been a veteran who received a discharge other than dishonorable.
Reservists entitled to retired pay are also eligible to receive a burial flag.
How do you apply for veterans’ benefits?
Contact the regional Veterans’ Administration Office listed in the Federal Government section of
the telephone book or call 1-800-827-1000.
You will need the following:
- Proof of military service (Form DD-214)
- Service Serial Number
- Death certificate
- Marriage license, if applicable
- Children’s birth certificates, if applicable
