Veteran Benefits Center
Veteran Eligibility Basics
VA burial and memorial benefits are available to veterans who meet certain service and discharge requirements. Eligibility is determined solely by the Department of Veterans Affairs — not by Taps2.
General Service Requirements
Veterans who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces and were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable are generally eligible for VA burial and memorial benefits. This includes veterans of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard.
Discharge Status
Discharge status is a key factor in eligibility. Veterans with honorable or general discharges are typically eligible. Veterans with other-than-honorable, bad conduct, or dishonorable discharges may not be eligible. The VA makes the final determination on eligibility.
Reservists and National Guard Members
Members of the Reserves and National Guard may be eligible for VA burial benefits if they were called to active duty under federal orders and completed the required period of service. Eligibility is determined by the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Spouses and Dependents
Spouses and dependent children of eligible veterans may be eligible for burial in a VA national cemetery alongside the veteran. Eligibility for other benefits, such as burial flags and headstones, is generally limited to the veteran.
Eligibility for VA burial and memorial benefits is determined solely by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Taps2 does not determine eligibility and does not administer VA benefits. This page provides general educational information only — consult the VA directly for an authoritative eligibility determination.
Related Veteran Benefits Resources
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