Veteran Services

People who have lost a loved one who serviced their country and who was a veteran sometimes are not sure about the benefits that their loved one may be entitled to. If that is something that you want to know and are not sure about what to expect, it can help to learn a bit about the funerary benefits that veterans have. Here are the things that providers of cremation services in Clearwater, FL want you to know.   

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.   

Once you are sure that your loved one is eligible, the next thing to consider is the kind of services that you can expect. Veterans are eligible to be buried at no cost at a national cemetery. Some state cemeteries also offer this option. The gravesite will receive perpetual care, as well as a marker at no cost. Keep in mind that you cannot reserve burial space in advance, so your loved one may not be able to get buried where they wanted.   

Do remember that the VA will not pay for the costs of the actual funeral or cremation service. They will not pay for the casket, the flowers, the rental of the space, or the transportation of the casket to its resting place. You may be able to get reimbursed for these things, however, so do keep that in mind as you decide on the kind of funeral or memorial service you want to have for the person. This can go a long way into making the process easier.   

These are some important things you want to remember when getting ready to make arrangements for a loved one who has passed away and who has served their country. There are many benefits that you can expect, and you want to definitely reach out to the VA before making any kind of arrangements. If you have more questions or if you want to get started with planning funerary services, you can reach out to a Clearwater, FL cremation services provider like us. We are here to help you get the exact services you want for your loved one. Stop by our location or call us right now to learn more about what we can offer our clients about this and about all of the other services we can offer after the death of a loved one.