The Reality of Veteran Burial Costs: What the Veterans Administration Won't Cover
When it comes to the end of life, it's a topic most people would rather avoid. However, it's essential to know and understand the financial implications of our final moments, especially for veterans and their families. While the Veterans Administration (VA) does provide some benefits, they don't cover everything. This article aims to shed light on the expenses that the VA won't pay for and how to plan for them to ensure a smooth and dignified burial process. 1. The Staggering Expenses of Saying Goodbye Before diving into what the Veterans Administration won't cover, let's first examine the primary costs associated with end-of-life services. 1.1 Funeral Costs According to the National Funeral Directors Association, the average cost of a funeral with burial in 2021 is nearly $8,000, while the average cost of a funeral with cremation is close to $7,000. These figures only cover the transportation and preparation of the body and a small viewing. Additional service