What is what to do when a veteran dies checklist?

Here's a checklist of essential actions to take when a veteran passes away, presented in Markdown format with linked keywords:

• Obtain a Legal Pronouncement of Death and Death Certificate: This is the first step. You will need multiple copies of the death certificate for various benefits and administrative processes.

• Notify the Necessary Agencies:

  • Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): Report the death to the VA to stop benefits and initiate survivor benefits, if eligible.
  • Social Security Administration: Notify them to stop Social Security payments.
  • Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS): If the veteran was receiving military retired pay, notify DFAS.
  • Office of Personnel Management (OPM): If the veteran was a federal employee, notify OPM for survivor benefits.

• Arrange Funeral and Burial:

  • Veteran's Burial Benefits: Explore eligibility for burial in a national cemetery, a headstone or marker, and a burial allowance.
  • Funeral Home: Make arrangements with a funeral home.
  • Military Honors: Request military funeral honors.

• Review and Understand Veteran Benefits:

  • Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC): DIC is a tax-free monetary benefit paid to eligible survivors of deceased veterans.
  • Survivor's Pension: Explore eligibility for a survivor's pension based on need.

• Handle Financial Matters:

  • Life Insurance Policies: Locate and file claims for life insurance policies.
  • Bank Accounts: Freeze bank accounts and handle estate matters.
  • Will and Estate Planning: Consult with an attorney to handle the veteran's will and estate.
  • Debts and Taxes: Address outstanding debts and taxes.

• Obtain Copies of Military Records:

  • DD214 Form: Secure a copy of the veteran's DD214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty). You will need this document to prove their military service to apply for most veteran benefits.

• Consider Grief Support:

  • Grief Counseling: Seek grief counseling or support groups for yourself and other family members. The VA offers grief counseling to eligible family members.

• Other Considerations:

  • Notify Veteran Organizations: Inform organizations like the American Legion or Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) if the veteran was a member.
  • Memorialize the Veteran: Plan a memorial service or other way to honor the veteran's life and service.