What is what to do when a veteran dies?

When a veteran passes away, there are several steps to take to ensure their service is honored and their affairs are handled appropriately. Here’s a breakdown:

• Immediate Actions:

  • Obtain the Death Certificate: Secure multiple certified copies of the death certificate. These will be needed for various benefits and administrative processes.
  • Notify Relevant Parties: Inform key entities, including:
    • The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): This is crucial for stopping benefits and potentially claiming burial allowances. You can learn more about VA Death Benefits.
    • Social Security Administration: To report the death and potentially claim survivor benefits.
    • The veteran's pension provider (if applicable).
    • Insurance companies: To file claims on life insurance policies.

• Funeral and Burial Arrangements:

  • Veteran's Burial Benefits: Veterans are often entitled to certain burial benefits, including burial in a national cemetery, a headstone or marker, and a burial allowance. Explore Veteran%27s%20Burial%20Benefits for specific details.
  • Military Funeral Honors: Request military funeral honors, which typically include the playing of Taps, a rifle salute, and the presentation of the U.S. flag to the next of kin.
  • Arrange for Disposition: Decide on burial or cremation, and make arrangements with a funeral home.

• Financial and Legal Matters:

  • Review the Will: Locate and review the veteran's will to understand their wishes regarding the distribution of assets.
  • Probate: If the veteran had assets, probate may be necessary to legally transfer ownership.
  • Life Insurance and Pensions: File claims for life insurance policies and any applicable pension benefits.
  • Debt Management: Address any outstanding debts or financial obligations.

• Benefits and Entitlements:

  • Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC): Surviving spouses, children, and parents may be eligible for DIC payments. You should research Dependency%20and%20Indemnity%20Compensation to check for eligibility.
  • Survivor Benefits: Investigate other potential survivor benefits, such as educational assistance or healthcare benefits.

• Memorialization:

  • Obituary: Write and publish an obituary to honor the veteran's life and service.
  • Memorial Service: Consider holding a memorial service or celebration of life to remember the veteran.

• Important Documents: Gather essential documents, including:

  • The veteran's DD-214 (discharge papers).
  • Marriage certificate (if applicable).
  • Birth certificates of dependents (if applicable).
  • Social Security cards.