Burial Expenses for Service Related Death
The U.S. Department of Veterans’ Affairs pays up to $2,000.00 for burial expenses for service-related deaths on or after September 11, 2001. Some or all of the cost for transportation of the deceased may be reimbursed if the veteran is buried in a Veterans’ National Cemetery.
Burial Expenses for Non-Service Related Death
For non-service-related deaths, the U.S. Department of Veterans’ Affairs pays up to $300.00 for burial and funeral expenses and a $300.00 plot-interment allowance for deaths on or after December 1, 2001. Some or all of the costs for transportation of the remains from a Veterans’ Affairs nursing home or hospital to a cemetery may be reimbursed.
Choosing a Cemetery
Veterans and their spouses are entitled to a plot at a National Cemetery and arrangements can be made for a color guard or burial with honors if the veteran is eligible for these honors. Veterans are not required to be buried in a National Cemetery though. Veterans may be buried in a cemetery with their family members or some other place of special importance and their estates may still receive the allowances for burial and funeral expenses.
Getting Legal Help
Understanding your rights and benefits as a veteran (or spouse of a veteran) can impact your estate planning decisions. Experienced Estate Planning Attorney Elga Goodman can help you investigate the benefits to which you are entitled and make a plan. Contact us today at 973-841-5111.
Posted in: Elder Law, Estate Planning, New York Estate Planning