How to Prepare for Burial at the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemeteries

Required documents

• Burial application
• All military discharge paperwork (DD-214, etc.)
• Birth certificate(s) OR driver's license/state ID card for veteran or eligible spouse/dependent
• Marriage certificate (if applicable)
• Burial permit/cremation certificate (at time of need)

Eligibility

Eligibility is based on Military Service as determined by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs.  Subject to change without notice.  Visit the National Cemetery Administration website for complete eligibility requirements. Copy of all military service documentation for all time periods served (DD214, Title 10 Retirement letter, etc.).

• Military Service

  • The veteran was discharged or released from active-duty service (other than for training purposes) under honorable conditions.  Certain exceptions do apply. 
    – OR –
  • The veteran served at least 20 years in the National Guard or United States Reserves and is in receipt of a military pension or has documentation verifying he/she will receive retirement pay at age 60, in accordance with Title 10, Chapter 1223. 
    – OR –
  • Any member of the Armed Forces of the United States who dies while honorably serving on active duty.

• Spouse/Dependent Children

  • Spouse: 
    Veteran and spouse must be legally married. Ex-spouse (by annulment or divorce) is not eligible. Copy of marriage certificate required. If the spouse is also a veteran, all military documentation must be provided at the time of the first interment.
  • Dependent child defined as:
    1. Unmarried minor child, under 21 years of age, or under 23 if pursuing a course of instruction at an approved educational institution.
    2. Unmarried and became permanently physically or mentally disabled and incapable of self-support before reaching the age of 21 years, or before reaching the age of 23 years if pursuing a course of instruction at an approved educational institution.

Fees:

• Veterans

  • No charge (for initial burial)

• Spouse/Dependents fee:

  • $300 full casket burial
  • $150 cremation internment

A $200 fee, subject to change, will be charged for all dis-interments and/or re-interments.  A fee may also be charged for the replacement cost to any damaged concrete crypt. All fees subject to change without notice.