Are there cremation benefits for eligible U.S. veterans?
Yes. The Veterans Administration (VA) provides a partial reimbursement of burial and funeral expenses. Contact the VA at 1-800-827-1000 or go to www.cem.va.gov/faq.htm for details. Is a permit needed for cremation? Yes: legal authorization is required. A death certificate must be completed and filed by an attending physician, coroner or medical examiner and the person(s) legally authorized to make arrangements must sign a cremation authorization. When there is no record of the deceaseds preference for or against cremation, legal authority rests with the next of kin. Other forms that may be required can be explained by your funeral service provider. How do we obtain the cremated remains? Authorized persons usually can choose to receive the cremated remains at the funeral home or the crematory. How can we know we are receiving the correct cremated remains? Your funeral service provider can explain crematory policies and procedures to ensure correct identification of your loved one prior