VA Burial Benefits Washington DC: 2026 Guide

What is the veterans cemetery in Washington DC?

Washington DC is home to the United States Soldiers’ and Airmen’s Home National Cemetery at 21 Harewood Road NW, a historic 16-acre burial ground established in July 1861. It is the final resting place of more than 14,000 veterans, including 21 Medal of Honor recipients. Nearby Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia serves as the nation’s most prestigious military cemetery.

Quick Facts

United States Soldiers’ and Airmen’s Home National Cemetery

The United States Soldiers’ and Airmen’s Home National Cemetery is the only national cemetery located within the District of Columbia. It was established in July 1861 when six acres of land at the U.S. Military Asylum were designated as a burial ground shortly after the Battle of Bull Run.

The cemetery quickly filled as thousands of Civil War dead were interred, and by 1864 more than 5,600 burials had been made. An expansion in 1883 added nine acres, bringing the cemetery to nearly sixteen acres. In 1900, Confederate remains were reinterred at Arlington National Cemetery.

Location and Directions

Notable Burials

The cemetery is the resting place of more than 14,000 veterans, including 21 Medal of Honor recipients. It is one of the nation’s oldest and most historically significant national cemeteries.

Visitation Information

The cemetery is open to the public for visitation. Visitors can pay respects at individual gravesites and participate in memorial events throughout the year. The cemetery participates in Memorial Day ceremonies and other veterans’ observances.

Burial Records

Burial records for the United States Soldiers’ and Airmen’s Home National Cemetery are maintained by the Office of Army Cemeteries. Interment.net has compiled 14,446 records from this cemetery.

Arlington National Cemetery

Arlington National Cemetery is located in Arlington County, Virginia, directly across the Potomac River from Washington DC. While technically in Virginia, it serves as the primary military cemetery for the Washington DC metropolitan area and is the most famous military cemetery in the United States.

Eligibility for Arlington National Cemetery

Arlington National Cemetery has the most stringent eligibility requirements of all U.S. national cemeteries. Most veterans who have at least one day of active service (other than for training) and an honorable discharge are eligible for above-ground inurnment.

In-Ground Burial Eligibility

The following individuals are eligible for in-ground burial at Arlington National Cemetery:

• Service members who die on Title 10 federal active duty (other than for training)

• Veterans retired from active duty and receiving retirement pay

• Veterans who received the Medal of Honor, Distinguished Service Cross, Distinguished Service Medal, Silver Star, or Purple Heart

• Former prisoners of war who served honorably and died on or after November 30, 1993

Inurnment Eligibility

The following individuals are eligible for inurnment in the Columbarium Court or Niche Wall:

• Service members who die on active duty for training only under Title 10

• Veterans with at least one day of active duty other than for training

• Members of Reserve components whose death occurs under honorable conditions while on active duty for training or performing full-time service

Arlington National Cemetery Comparison

Other Veterans Cemeteries Near Washington DC

Battleground National Cemetery

Battleground National Cemetery is a one-acre military burial ground located at 6625 Georgia Avenue NW in Washington DC’s Brightwood neighborhood. It is managed by the National Park Service as part of Rock Creek Park.

The cemetery was established after the Battle of Fort Stevens on July 11–12, 1864, when 59 Union soldiers were killed. Forty soldiers were buried on the evening of July 12 on the battlefield site under direction from President Abraham Lincoln and Quartermaster General Montgomery C. Meigs. The dead were later moved to the current location.

Only one more veteran of the battle, Edward R. Campbell, was buried in the cemetery in March 1936 at the age of 92.

Congressional Cemetery

Congressional Cemetery, officially known as Washington Parish Burial Ground, is a historic cemetery located at 1801 E Street SE in Washington DC. While not exclusively a veterans cemetery, it contains the graves of many notable military and political figures. The cemetery’s Veterans Affairs Database contains 495 records with dates of death ranging from 1790 to 2016.

Military Cemeteries in the Region

Veterans in the Washington DC area also have access to:

• Quantico National Cemetery — Triangle, Virginia

• Culpeper National Cemetery — Culpeper, Virginia

• Baltimore National Cemetery — Baltimore, Maryland

• Cheltenham Veterans Cemetery — Cheltenham, Maryland

VA Burial Benefits Overview

VA burial benefits help service members, veterans, and their family members plan and pay for burial or memorial services in a VA national cemetery. Family members can also order memorial items to honor a veteran’s service.

What VA Burial Benefits Include

VA burial benefits include:

• Burial in a VA national cemetery — at no cost to the family

• Opening and closing of the grave — performed by VA

• Perpetual care — maintained by VA

• Headstone or marker — inscribed at government expense

• Burial flag — provided to drape the casket

• Presidential Memorial Certificate — signed by the current president

• Military funeral honors — including Taps and flag folding

Burial Allowance

VA provides a burial allowance to partially reimburse burial and funeral costs to certain veterans. The burial allowance is paid to the person who paid the burial expenses, typically a family member or the estate.

2026 Burial Allowance Rates

Source: VA burial allowance rates effective October 1, 2024

Eligibility for Burial Allowance

The burial allowance is available for:

• Veterans who died from a service-connected disability

• Veterans who were receiving VA compensation or pension at the time of death

• Veterans who would have been entitled to receive compensation or pension if they had filed a claim

• Veterans who died while hospitalized by VA

• Veterans whose death occurred while traveling to or from a VA facility

Eligibility for Burial in VA National Cemeteries

Burial in a VA national cemetery is open to all members of the armed forces and veterans who have met minimum active duty service requirements and were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable. Spouses, minor children, and under certain conditions, dependent unmarried adult children are also eligible for burial, even if they predecease the veteran.

Who Qualifies for Burial in a National Cemetery

The following individuals are eligible for burial in a VA national cemetery:

• Veterans — discharged under conditions other than dishonorable

• Service members — who die on active duty

• Spouses — of eligible veterans (including surviving spouses who have remarried)

• Minor children — of eligible veterans (under 21, or under 23 if attending a VA-approved school)

• Dependent adult children — who are permanently incapable of self-support

• Parents — under certain conditions

Spouse and Dependent Burial

Burial benefits available for spouses and dependents buried in a national cemetery include burial with the veteran, perpetual care, and the spouse or dependent’s name and date of birth and death inscribed on the veteran’s headstone at no cost. Eligible spouses and dependents may be buried even if they predecease the veteran.

Eligibility Restrictions

The following individuals are NOT eligible for burial in a VA national cemetery:

• Veterans with dishonorable discharge

• Veterans convicted of certain crimes

• Former spouses who are not surviving spouses

• Non-dependent adult children

Required Documents for Burial Benefits

Documents Needed for Burial in a National Cemetery

To arrange burial in a VA national cemetery, you will need:

1. DD214 or separation papers (discharge document)

2. Death certificate

3. Marriage certificate (for spouse burial)

4. Birth certificates (for dependent burial)

5. Social Security numbers for the veteran and next of kin

Documents Needed for Burial Allowance

To apply for a burial allowance, you will need:

1. VA Form 21P-530EZ — Application for Burial Benefits

2. DD214 or separation papers

3. Death certificate

4. Funeral home receipt showing itemized expenses

5. Bank account information for direct deposit

6. Proof of relationship (for survivors)

Documents Needed for Headstone or Marker

To request a headstone or marker, you will need:

1. VA Form 40-1330 — Application for Standard Government Headstone or Marker

2. DD214 or separation papers

3. Cemetery information — name and address of the cemetery

4. Grave location — section, plot, and grave number

How to Apply for Burial Benefits

Step 1: Determine Eligibility

Before applying, verify that the veteran meets eligibility requirements for burial in a VA national cemetery or for burial allowance benefits.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Collect the DD214, death certificate, and other required documents. The funeral home director can often assist with obtaining these documents.

Step 3: Complete the Application

For burial in a national cemetery:
Contact the National Cemetery Scheduling Office at 1-800-535-1117 to arrange burial. The funeral home typically coordinates this process.

For burial allowance:
Complete VA Form 21P-530EZ and submit it to the VA regional office.

For headstone or marker:
Complete VA Form 40-1330 and submit it to the VA.

Step 4: Submit the Application

Applications can be submitted:

• Online — through VA.gov

• By mail — to the appropriate VA regional office

• By fax — to 1-800-535-1117

• In person — at the National Capital Region Benefit Office

Step 5: Track Your Claim

After submitting your application, you will receive a confirmation letter. Track your claim status on VA.gov or call 1-800-827-1000.

Step 6: Arrange Military Funeral Honors

The funeral home director will typically coordinate military funeral honors with the appropriate military service. The District of Columbia National Guard Honor Guard provides no-cost funeral services to eligible veterans in the District, featuring the playing of Taps and precise folding of the American flag.

Military Funeral Honors

Military funeral honors are provided to eligible veterans at no cost to the family. Honors typically include:

• Flag folding — the American flag is folded and presented to the next of kin

• Taps — played by a bugler or electronic device

• Firing party — rifle volleys (when available)

• Body bearers — military personnel to carry the casket

Eligibility for Military Funeral Honors

All veterans who were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable are eligible for military funeral honors. At minimum, a detail of two uniformed personnel will fold and present the flag and play Taps.

Scheduling Funeral Honors

The funeral home director should request military funeral honors at least 48 hours before the service. The request should include:

• The veteran’s name

• Service branch

• Rank

• Service number or Social Security number

• Copy of DD214

Presidential Memorial Certificate

A Presidential Memorial Certificate (PMC) is an engraved paper certificate signed by the current president. It honors the memory of a deceased veteran and expresses the country’s grateful recognition of their service in the Armed Forces.

How to Request a PMC

To request a Presidential Memorial Certificate:

1. Complete VA Form 40-0247

2. Include a copy of the veteran’s DD214

3. Include a copy of the death certificate

4. Submit to the VA

Who Can Request a PMC

The next of kin, other relatives, or friends of a deceased veteran may request a PMC. There is no time limit for requesting a certificate. Multiple certificates can be requested.

VA Forms for Burial Benefits

VA Form 21P-530EZ Details

VA Form 21P-530EZ is the Application for Burial Benefits (Under 38 U.S.C. Chapter 23). The form was revised on May 20, 2025. It is used to determine eligibility for all VA monetary burial benefits, including burial allowance, plot or interment allowance, and transportation reimbursement.

VA Form 40-1330 Details

VA Form 40-1330 is the Application for Standard Government Headstone or Marker. This form is used to request an inscribed headstone or marker for the grave of an eligible veteran at any cemetery, or a medallion in lieu of a headstone or marker to affix to a privately purchased marker.

Processing Times for Burial Benefits

VA has made significant improvements in burial claims processing times. The average time to complete burial claims has been cut from 70 days to 31 days — a reduction of more than 50 percent.

Current Processing Times

Tips for Faster Processing

• Submit a complete application with all required documents

• Use direct deposit to receive payments faster

• Respond promptly to any VA requests for additional information

• Apply online through VA.gov when possible

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Assuming VA pays all funeral costs. VA burial benefits are limited and do not cover the full cost of a funeral. Families should plan accordingly.

2. Missing the two-year deadline. Claims for non-service-connected burial benefits must be filed within two years of the veteran’s burial. There is no time limit for service-connected deaths.

3. Not providing the DD214. The discharge document is essential for verifying eligibility. If the DD214 is lost, request a replacement from the National Archives.

4. Confusing Arlington with other national cemeteries. Arlington National Cemetery has stricter eligibility requirements than VA national cemeteries. Not all veterans eligible for VA burial are eligible for Arlington.

5. Not requesting military funeral honors. Many families are unaware that military funeral honors are available at no cost. Request honors when arranging the funeral.

6. Failing to request a Presidential Memorial Certificate. The PMC is a free benefit that honors the veteran’s service. Multiple certificates can be requested.

7. Not checking state benefits. Some states offer additional burial benefits beyond federal VA benefits. Check with the DC Office of Veterans Affairs for local programs.

8. Waiting too long to apply. While the two-year deadline is generous, applying promptly ensures faster processing and peace of mind.

Appeals Process for Burial Benefits

If VA denies your burial benefits claim, you have the right to appeal. There are three decision review options:

1. Supplemental Claim

Submit new and relevant evidence with VA Form 20-0995. This reopens your claim with new evidence that VA did not previously consider.

2. Higher-Level Review

Request a senior reviewer to examine your case for errors with VA Form 20-0996. No new evidence is considered in this process.

3. Board Appeal

Appeal directly to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals with VA Form 10182. You can choose:

• Direct review — no new evidence

• Evidence submission — submit new evidence

• Hearing — testify before a Veterans Law Judge

Deadline: One year from the date of the decision letter.

Getting Help with Appeals

VA-accredited representatives can help you file an appeal. These include representatives from veterans service organizations (VSOs) such as The American Legion, VFW, and Disabled American Veterans.

State Differences in Burial Benefits

District of Columbia

The DC Office of Veterans Affairs provides assistance with VA burial and death benefit claims. The office is located at 441 4th Street NW, Suite 707 North, Washington, DC 20001. Phone: (202) 724-5454.

Maryland

Maryland has a state veterans cemetery program that offers burial at reduced costs for eligible veterans. The Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs oversees these cemeteries.

Virginia

Virginia operates three state veterans cemeteries:

• Virginia Veterans Cemetery at Amelia — Amelia, VA

• Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery — Suffolk, VA

• Southwest Virginia Veterans Cemetery — Dublin, VA

Comparison of Burial Benefits by Location

Latest Rule Changes

2026 COLA Increase

The 2026 VA disability rates include a 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment effective December 1, 2025. This increase applies to disability compensation, pension, and DIC payments.

PACT Act Expansion

The PACT Act expands VA healthcare and benefits for veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances. This includes expanded survivor benefits for certain conditions.

Burial Claims Processing Improvement

VA has reduced burial claims processing time from 70 days to 31 days through improved processes and technology.

Expanded Burial Benefits

VA announced temporary expansion of burial benefits for certain veterans per the Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act.

Common Questions

What veterans cemetery is in Washington DC?

The United States Soldiers’ and Airmen’s Home National Cemetery at 21 Harewood Road NW is the only national cemetery located within the District of Columbia. It was established in July 1861 and contains more than 14,000 graves, including 21 Medal of Honor recipients.

Who is eligible for burial in a VA national cemetery?

Veterans discharged under conditions other than dishonorable, service members who die on active duty, spouses, minor children, and dependent adult children are eligible. Spouses and dependents can be buried even if they predecease the veteran.

Is Arlington National Cemetery in Washington DC?

Arlington National Cemetery is in Arlington County, Virginia, across the Potomac River from Washington DC. While not within the District, it serves as the primary military cemetery for the Washington DC metropolitan area.

How do I arrange burial in a national cemetery?

Contact the National Cemetery Scheduling Office at 1-800-535-1117. The funeral home director typically coordinates burial arrangements with the national cemetery and verifies eligibility.

What is the burial allowance for veterans in 2026?

VA provides up to $2,000 for service-connected deaths and up to $978 for non-service-connected deaths. A plot or interment allowance of up to $978 is also available. These rates are effective October 1, 2024.

How long does it take to get burial benefits?

VA has reduced burial claims processing time to an average of 31 days. Headstone and marker requests typically take 30-60 days, and PMC requests take 30-45 days.

What documents do I need to apply for burial benefits?

You need the veteran’s DD214 or separation papers, death certificate, funeral home receipt, and VA Form 21P-530EZ. For headstone requests, use VA Form 40-1330.

Are spouses eligible for burial in a national cemetery?

Yes. Spouses, minor children, and dependent adult children are eligible for burial in a VA national cemetery, even if they predecease the veteran. There is no additional cost for spouse burial.

What is a Presidential Memorial Certificate?

A Presidential Memorial Certificate is an engraved paper certificate signed by the current president. It honors the memory of a deceased veteran. Request one using VA Form 40-0247.

How do I request military funeral honors?

The funeral home director typically coordinates military funeral honors with the appropriate military service. Request honors at least 48 hours before the service. There is no cost to the family.

Can I get a headstone for a veteran buried in a private cemetery?

Yes. VA provides headstones or markers for eligible veterans buried in private cemeteries at no cost. Use VA Form 40-1330 to request a headstone, marker, or medallion.

What if the veteran received a dishonorable discharge?

Veterans with dishonorable discharges are not eligible for burial in VA national cemeteries or VA burial benefits. Some veterans with other-than-honorable discharges may be eligible on a case-by-case basis.

Is there a time limit to apply for burial benefits?

For service-connected deaths, there is no time limit. For non-service-connected deaths, claims must be filed within two years of the veteran’s burial.

What is the difference between Arlington and VA national cemeteries?

Arlington National Cemetery has stricter eligibility requirements. Most veterans eligible for VA burial are eligible for inurnment at Arlington, but in-ground burial is limited to retired veterans, Medal of Honor recipients, and certain others.

How do I get a copy of a veteran’s DD214?

Request a copy from the National Archives at archives.gov or by calling 1-866-272-6272. You can also request military service records through eVetRecs.

Key Takeaways

• The United States Soldiers’ and Airmen’s Home National Cemetery at 21 Harewood Road NW is the only national cemetery in Washington DC, established in 1861 with over 14,000 graves

• Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia has the most stringent eligibility requirements, with in-ground burial limited to retired veterans, Medal of Honor recipients, and certain others

• VA burial benefits include burial at no cost, opening and closing of the grave, perpetual care, headstone, burial flag, and Presidential Memorial Certificate

• Burial allowance rates for 2026 are up to $2,000 for service-connected deaths and up to $978 for non-service-connected deaths

• The average processing time for burial claims is now 31 days, reduced from 70 days

• Eligibility for VA national cemetery burial includes veterans with honorable discharge, spouses, minor children, and dependent adult children

• Key forms include VA Form 21P-530EZ (burial benefits), VA Form 40-1330 (headstone), and VA Form 40-0247 (PMC)

• Military funeral honors are provided at no cost to families, including flag folding, Taps, and firing party

• The two-year deadline applies to non-service-connected burial benefit claims; no deadline for service-connected deaths

• DC Office of Veterans Affairs at (202) 724-5454 provides assistance with burial and death benefit claims

Official Resources

• VA.gov Burial Benefits — va.gov/burials-memorials

• VA National Cemetery Administration — cem.va.gov

• Arlington National Cemetery — arlingtoncemetery.mil

• National Cemetery Scheduling Office — 1-800-535-1117

• VA Form 21P-530EZ — va.gov/find-forms/about-form-21p-530ez

• VA Form 40-1330 — va.gov/find-forms/about-form-40-1330

• VA Form 40-0247 — va.gov/find-forms/about-form-40-0247

• Presidential Memorial Certificates — va.gov/burials-memorials/memorial-items/presidential-memorial-certificates

• DC Office of Veterans Affairs — ova.dc.gov

• National Archives — archives.gov (for DD214 requests)

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