Key takeaway
Eligible Veterans can receive a government headstone or marker (VA Form 40-1330) or, if the grave has a privately purchased headstone, a bronze medallion to attach to it (VA Form 40-1330M), both at no charge. The VA does not pay setting or installation fees in private cemeteries, so families still plan the foundation and placement.
Who qualifies for a VA headstone or marker?
A Veteran generally qualifies if they were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable, or a service member who died on active duty. Minimum active-duty service requirements apply to some service periods, and the VA lists them on the form.
For Veterans who died on or after November 1, 1990, the VA can furnish a government headstone or marker for a grave in a private cemetery even if the grave already has a privately purchased headstone. Spouses and dependents buried in a private cemetery are generally not eligible for a government headstone or marker.
What headstone, marker and medallion options does the VA offer?
| Option | Materials | Form |
|---|---|---|
| Upright headstone | White marble or light gray granite | VA Form 40-1330 |
| Flat marker | Light gray granite, white marble or bronze | VA Form 40-1330 |
| Bronze niche marker | Bronze, for columbaria or mausoleums | VA Form 40-1330 |
| Medallion for a private headstone | Bronze, in large, medium or small | VA Form 40-1330M |
The style you choose must be permitted by the officials of the private cemetery. Check first with our cemetery rules checklist.
How does the VA medallion work with a private headstone?
The medallion is for Veterans who served on or after April 6, 1917, and are buried in a private or local government cemetery in a grave marked with a privately purchased headstone or marker. It is bronze, comes in three sizes and ships at no charge. The government does not pay to attach it, so ask your memorial provider or installer about fixing it to the stone.
If you plan a medallion, choose a private headstone with enough flat face to hold it beside the names and dates. Upright headstones usually offer the most room.
How do you apply?
- Download VA Form 40-1330 (headstone or marker) or VA Form 40-1330M (medallion) from va.gov.
- Attach the Veteran’s discharge documents, such as a DD Form 214. The medallion claim also asks for a death certificate.
- Have the cemetery official sign where the form requires it.
- Submit electronically through the VA QuickSubmit tool, or by mail or fax as listed on the form.
- For help, call the VA Applicant Assistance Unit at 1-800-697-6947.
Can a family buy a private headstone for a Veteran instead?
Yes. Many families choose a private granite headstone for its shape, color, artwork or room for a spouse, and add the VA medallion. At Memory Stones, verified eligible Veterans may receive 10% as a base program on an eligible long-term internal product plan. It cannot be stacked with another base program. See the FAQ on Veterans programs for the full conditions.
What costs does the VA not cover?
In private cemeteries, the VA does not pay installation, setting or removal fees, and it does not pay to attach a medallion. Plan for the cemetery’s foundation and setting charges when you budget.
Sources
- VA — Headstones and markers
- VA National Cemetery Administration — Headstones, markers and medallions
- VA Form 40-1330 (PDF)
- VA Form 40-1330M (PDF)
This guide is general information, not legal or benefits advice. Rules vary by cemetery and change over time, so confirm details with the cemetery and official agencies. Questions? See our FAQ or contact us.
