Veteran Services

Losing a loved one who has served their country is something that can allow you to get help for the burial or cremation process. You want to make certain that you know what to expect and that you are certain your loved one is eligible for the benefits you want for them. If that is something that you are wondering about, there are some things that directors of funeral homes in Clio, MI want you to keep in mind.  

The first thing you want to know is who is eligible for these benefits. People who have served in the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Coast Guard, are eligible for these benefits. If a member of the National Guard died while on duty, they can also be eligible. They need to have received a standard discharge and not to have been dishonorably discharged. The spouses of veterans as well as dependent children can also receive the benefits. Sometimes, the parents of veterans can also get these benefits, but it is a case-by-case scenario, so be sure to speak with the VA if you have questions about whether someone is eligible or not.  

You want to know what the benefits are for a veteran. A veteran can be buried without cost at a national cemetery or at many state ones. It is important to note that you cannot reserve a location in advance. If you have a local cemetery that you want for your loved one, it can be a good idea to reach out to them and speak with them about the veteran benefits they may offer. In a national cemetery, a veteran is entitled to a free burial, the opening and closing of the grave, a free grave marker, perpetual care, and even a burial flag. If you are not sure about any of this, speak with the VA. 

The benefits do not usually cover the funeral or memorial service. You will have to pay for the casket, the flowers, the location of the service, and the transportation. Many times, the VA will reimburse you for these costs, but you always want to check with the VA before making any plans. Keep that in mind as you start thinking about the kind of services that you want for a loved one.  

When you start thinking about offering your loved one the kind of service they deserve, you do want to take some time and see if they are eligible for veteran benefits. Take the time to speak with the VA and get a clear sense of what you can expect. You also want to remember that they will not cover all costs and that there are limits to what they can offer. If you want to know more about this, you can reach out to a Clio, MI funeral home. We are here to help you with the options that you need for your loved one and we can ensure that you get the quality service you want. You can give us a call right now.