Veterans who have received a discharge other than dishonorable are eligible for certain burial benefits. Each benefit has specific requirements. Veterans Services office is here to help you in filing for your benefits.
You or a family member could be eligible for the following veteran benefits:
- Burial in a national cemetery – The closest national cemetery is Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, MI. For more information call: 1-800-535-1117 or visit their website.
- Head stone or bronze niche for cremations – The veteran’s family may request a government head stone, even if the remains have been cremated.
- Presidential Memorial Certificates – This is an engraved paper certificate signed by the current president to honor the memory of the honorably discharged deceased veteran.
- Flag case – The Veteran must have served for more than 90 days of active duty with one day during a war time period or two years peacetime and be a Macomb County resident. This benefit expires two years after date of death.
- Flag from the VA to cover casket – Provided by the VA directly or the funeral home.
- County burial allowance for veteran or spouse – This is used to offset the cost of the funeral. The assets at death must be less than $50,000 (not including a primary residence), the veteran must have served for more than 90 days of active duty with one day during a war time period or two years peacetime and be a Macomb County resident. This benefit expires two years after death. Next of kin making the claim must have paid expenses out of their pocket.
- Federal burial allowance – This is used to offset the cost of the funeral. A veteran who is receiving a VA pension or is receiving a service connected disability allowance are eligible for this allowance. In addition to the above documents please bring in a VA Claim number, marriage license or amount veteran was receiving by check.
A veteran's DD214 or separation papers, deceased death certificate, marriage license for a spouse burial and paid funeral bill are required.
Please visit the Macomb Veteran Action Collaborative's flowchart for additional resources regarding veteran burials.