VA headstones and markers: Form 40-1330

Who is eligible for a VA headstone or marker?

A veteran who didn't receive a dishonorable discharge, or a service member who died on active duty, qualifies if they were buried in an unmarked grave anywhere in the world, or died on or after November 1, 1990, and the grave has a privately bought headstone.

Enlisted service that started after September 7, 1980, or officer service after October 16, 1981, generally needs 24 months of continuous active duty, unless the person died on active duty.

National Guard members qualify if they were entitled to retirement pay (or would have been at 60) or served in federal status for the period they were called to serve. Reservists qualify if they were entitled to retirement pay or were called to active duty for something other than training.

Can a spouse or child get a headstone?

Yes, in a national, state or tribal veterans cemetery or a military post cemetery, even if they died before the veteran. In a private cemetery, VA doesn't give a separate headstone for a spouse or child, but they may be added to the veteran's marker.

What kinds of headstones and markers are there?

The inscription includes the veteran's name, branch and dates. You can choose an emblem of belief from VA's list of available emblems and add a short personal line within VA's limits.

• An upright headstone, the kind most people picture at a national cemetery.
• A flat marker in granite, marble or bronze, for cemeteries or sections that use flat markers.
• A niche marker for cremated remains in a columbarium.
• A bronze medallion in one of three sizes, fixed to a private headstone to show the person was a veteran.

How do you fill in and send VA Form 40-1330?

1. Fill in VA Form 40-1330 with the veteran's details, the type of headstone or marker, the inscription, any emblem and the cemetery.
2. Attach a copy of the DD-214 or other discharge papers. Don't send originals.
3. Upload it through VA's QuickSubmit tool, or mail it to NCA FP Evidence Intake Center, PO Box 5237, Janesville, WI 53547.
4. For a replacement because of a mistake or damage, explain why in block 27.
5. Questions? Call VA's headstone line at 800-697-6947 (Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ET).

How does a medallion work?

The veteran must be buried in a private cemetery with a permanent, privately bought headstone or marker. A representative of the cemetery reviews and signs VA Form 40-1330M, and the cemetery must approve the size.

If VA approves it, VA sends the medallion with a kit to attach it. VA says to expect a decision within 30 days when the form and military documents are in order.

Who pays to set it in a private cemetery?

VA ships the headstone or marker but doesn't set it in a private cemetery. The cemetery usually charges to place it, so ask about that fee and the cemetery's marker rules before you order.

Where can you get help?

VA benefits line: 800-827-1000, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. ET, for the burial allowance and other benefits.

National Cemetery Scheduling Office: 800-535-1117, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. ET, to schedule a burial in a VA national cemetery.

Accredited Veterans Service Officers at VFW, American Legion, AMVETS, DAV and county veterans offices help with claims and appeals at no cost.