VA Announces Major Burial Benefit Expansion, Home Hospice Veterans Now Covered in 2025

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has unveiled a significant update to its burial benefits program, extending support to more families of Veterans who pass away at home while receiving hospice care. Beginning July 1, 2025, and lasting until October 1, 2026, this change ensures that those choosing to spend their final days at home will be eligible for the same dignified burial benefits as those who pass away in VA hospitals or nursing facilities.

This initiative is part of the Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act, a comprehensive law designed to enhance services and protections for Veterans and their families.

What the New Burial Benefits Include

The VA burial benefits program is designed to reduce the financial burden of funeral arrangements while guaranteeing Veterans a respectful final tribute. Under the updated policy, families may receive:

• Burial allowance: A fixed payment to assist with funeral costs.
• Transportation reimbursement: Coverage for moving the Veteran’s remains to a chosen cemetery.
• Plot or interment allowance: Assistance for those laid to rest in private cemeteries outside the national system.
• Headstone or grave marker: Provided free of charge by the VA.
• Presidential Memorial Certificate: A certificate signed by the President to honor the Veteran’s service.

By including Veterans in home hospice care, the VA is closing a gap that previously excluded thousands of families.

Who Qualifies Under the New Rule?

Before this update, full burial benefits were largely limited to Veterans who passed away in VA-run hospitals, nursing homes, or approved facilities. That restriction excluded many who preferred end-of-life care at home.

Now, the following categories will be eligible:

• Veterans who pass away between July 1, 2025, and October 1, 2026.
• Those receiving VA-provided or VA-funded home hospice care.
• Veterans recently discharged from VA hospitals or nursing facilities who transitioned to home hospice care.

This adjustment ensures that end-of-life preferences—especially the wish to be with family at home—will not prevent families from receiving burial support.

Why the Change Was Necessary

The shift comes after years of concern that existing rules unfairly excluded many Veterans’ families from critical assistance. Under the prior system, dying at home, even under VA hospice care, meant no burial benefits.

Officials recognized that this created financial strain and emotional hardship. With the new rule, the VA has redefined home hospice care as equivalent to care in a VA facility.

Doug Collins, VA Under Secretary for Benefits, emphasized that this move fulfills the spirit of the Dole Act and aligns with Veterans’ desires to remain close to loved ones in their final days.

How Families Can Apply for Burial Benefits

For families navigating the process, the VA has outlined clear steps:

1. Confirm eligibility – Ensure the Veteran passed away within the designated timeframe while receiving approved hospice care.
2. Prepare documents – Collect discharge papers, hospice care proof, and other VA records.
3. Contact VA support – Call 1-800-827-1000 or visit a regional VA office.
4. Submit online – Use the VA’s official website for burial benefits applications.
5. Use Ask VA portal – Families may also submit documents and seek guidance through the digital platform.

This streamlined system aims to reduce paperwork and ease stress during a difficult time.

Past Improvements to VA Burial Benefits

The 2025 change follows a series of recent expansions to VA burial support. In 2023, the VA introduced updates such as:

• Covering transportation costs to Tribal and state cemeteries.
• Raising burial payments for Veterans not passing from service-related causes.
• Allowing Tribal governments to receive burial support directly.

These steps reflect an ongoing effort to modernize benefits and recognize the diverse needs of Veterans and their families across the country.

A Broader Commitment to Veterans’ Families

The expansion of burial benefits for home hospice care marks more than just a policy adjustment—it is a reaffirmation of the nation’s promise to honor Veterans in life and death. By addressing gaps in the system, the VA acknowledges the importance of dignity, financial relief, and respect for families at a deeply personal time.

For further details, families can visit va.gov or call the VA helpline at 1-800-827-1000.

5 FAQs

Q1: When will the new VA burial benefit rule take effect?
A1: The rule begins on July 1, 2025, and remains in place until October 1, 2026.

Q2: Who qualifies for the expanded burial benefits?
A2: Veterans who pass away at home under VA-provided or VA-funded hospice care within the specified timeframe will qualify.

Q3: What expenses do VA burial benefits cover?
A3: Benefits include funeral allowances, transportation costs, grave markers, and a Presidential Memorial Certificate.

Q4: How can families apply for burial benefits?
A4: Applications can be submitted by phone, online through va.gov, or at a local VA office with the required documentation.

Q5: Why did the VA make this change?
A5: The VA updated its policy to close a gap that excluded Veterans in home hospice care, ensuring all receive equal recognition and support.