Burial Information for Veterans
 Most honorably discharged veterans are entitled to free burial in a national cemetery, such as Tahoma National Cemetery in Kent, Washington. Tahoma is one of 120 national cemeteries across the country which provide thousands of dollars of savings to the families of veterans. While these federally-maintained facilities receive high satisfaction ratings, less than 12% of eligible veterans and spouses use them.
In addition, a grave marker and flag will be provided, regardless of what cemetery is used (with certain restrictions). Spouses and dependent children are also entitled to a lot and marker, but only in a national cemetery. There are no charges for opening or closing the grave, a grave liner, or setting the marker in a national cemetery.
Other expenses, such as preparation for burial, the funeral service and casket, and transportation to the cemetery, are the responsiblity of the family. Membership in a funeral consumer organization, such as People's Memorial Association, helps to keep the costs not covered by the government to a minimum. Most funeral homes have information about veteran's benefits and can assist families of veterans in arranging for burial in a national cemetery.
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