VA Form 40-1330: Free Headstone & Marker Claim

VA Form 40-1330: Free Headstone & Marker Claim – VA Form 40-1330 is the official application used to request a free government-provided headstone, grave marker, or niche marker for eligible deceased Veterans, service members, and certain family members. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) furnishes these memorial items at no cost to honor military service.

The form (revised March 2025) covers burial headstones/markers for marked or unmarked graves and memorial headstones/markers for those whose remains are unavailable.

Download the latest VA Form 40-1330 here:
Download VA Form 40-1330 (PDF)

Who Is Eligible for a VA Government Headstone or Marker?

Eligibility is broad but includes specific requirements:

  • Veterans discharged under conditions other than dishonorable.
  • Active-duty service members who died while serving.
  • For service after September 7, 1980 (enlisted) or October 16, 1981 (officers): Minimum 24 months continuous active duty, or death on active duty, with exceptions.
  • National Guard and Reservists under specific conditions, such as entitlement to retired pay or qualifying federal active duty.
  • Spouses and dependent children when buried in national, state, or military cemeteries (not generally for private cemeteries).
  • Memorial markers for unrecovered remains, buried at sea, donated to science, or scattered cremated remains.

Pre-WWII service or special cases (e.g., Hmong Veterans) may require additional documentation.

For Veterans who died before November 1, 1990: The grave must be unmarked.
For Veterans who died on or after November 1, 1990: A government marker is available even if a private headstone already exists.

Benefits of the VA Headstone or Marker Program

  • No cost for the headstone/marker itself.
  • Available for placement in private, national, state, or military cemeteries worldwide.
  • Variety of styles: upright headstones (granite/marble), flat markers (granite/marble/bronze), and bronze niche markers.
  • Choice of emblems of belief and standard inscriptions (name, dates, branch, rank, awards like Purple Heart or Medal of Honor with proof).

Note: Applicants handle setting fees in private cemeteries. National/military cemeteries typically set them at no cost.

How to Apply for VA Form 40-1330: Step-by-Step Process?

  1. Gather Required Documents: Copy of the Veteran’s DD Form 214 (or equivalent discharge papers). Do not send originals. Additional proof for awards or pre-WWI service may be needed.
  2. Complete VA Form 40-1330: Provide Veteran details, desired inscription, marker type, and consignee (cemetery/funeral home) information.
  3. Submit the Application:
    • Online (recommended): Use Quick Submit via AccessVA.
    • Mail: NCA FP Evidence Intake Center, PO Box 5237, Janesville, WI 53547.
    • Fax: Check current instructions on VA.gov.

Authorized applicants include family members, personal representatives, Veterans Service Organizations, or those responsible for arrangements.

How to Fill Out VA Form 40-1330 Correctly?

Key blocks to watch:

  • Block 4: Indicate if the grave is unmarked or already has a private marker.
  • Block 11: Military service periods.
  • Block 15: Select one marker type (check cemetery rules first).
  • Block 17: Emblem of belief (or “None”).
  • Blocks 19-23: Applicant information and signature.
  • Block 25-28: Consignee (cemetery) details — mandatory for delivery.
  • Block 27: Remarks (e.g., replacement requests).

Consult the form’s General Information Sheet and detailed instructions on the National Cemetery Administration site for photos and guidance.

Types of Headstones, Markers, and Inscriptions Available

  • Upright Headstones: Granite or marble.
  • Flat Markers: Granite, marble, or bronze.
  • Niche Markers: Bronze for columbaria.
  • Customizable inscriptions include name, dates, branch, rank, and authorized emblems.

Review options and cemetery compatibility before selecting.

Processing Time, Delivery, and After Submission

Processing typically takes weeks to months. Contact the Applicant Assistance Unit (1-800-697-6947) for status on private cemetery orders after 30-60 days.

The VA ships the marker prepaid to the designated consignee. In private cemeteries, the applicant or cemetery arranges installation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About VA Form 40-1330

Can I request a replacement? Yes — explain in Block 27.

Is there a medallion option? For attachment to existing private markers, use VA Form 40-1330M instead.

What about spouses? Eligible in VA cemeteries; limited inscription options in private cemeteries.

Always verify the latest details on official VA sites, as policies can update.

Honoring Service with VA Memorial Benefits

Applying for a government headstone or marker through VA Form 40-1330 is a meaningful way to ensure a Veteran’s legacy is properly recognized. This benefit is available to most eligible Veterans at no cost for the marker itself.

Start the process today by downloading the form and gathering service documents. For personalized assistance, contact the VA or a Veterans Service Officer.