VA Form FL40-40: Gravesite Reservation Questionnaire

VA Form FL40-40: Gravesite Reservation Questionnaire – VA Form FL40-40 is the Gravesite Reservation Questionnaire (2 Year) issued by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) National Cemetery Administration (NCA). It is sent every two years to individuals or their representatives who hold a reserved gravesite in a VA national cemetery.

The form confirms whether the reservation holder still wants to keep the gravesite. Responding is required to maintain the reservation; failure to reply may result in cancellation so the site can be reassigned to another eligible veteran or family member.

Who Receives VA Form FL40-40?

You will typically receive this questionnaire if you (or a loved one) previously obtained a gravesite reservation in a VA national cemetery. The only person authorized to use the reserved gravesite is the designated reservation holder.

Common recipients include:

  • Veterans with approved pre-need burial eligibility
  • Unremarried surviving spouses
  • Other eligible dependents

Note: Updates to eligibility rules (effective for deaths on or after January 1, 2000) allow remarried surviving spouses to remain eligible for burial in VA national cemeteries.

Why Is the Gravesite Reservation Questionnaire Important?

VA national cemeteries have limited space. The NCA must maintain accurate records of reserved gravesites to ensure availability for those who need them. The 2-year questionnaire helps:

  • Update contact information
  • Confirm ongoing intent to use the gravesite
  • Verify eligibility status
  • Release unneeded reservations for other eligible families

Responding promptly keeps your records current and protects your burial benefit.

How to Complete and Return VA Form FL40-40?

The form is straightforward and usually takes about 10 minutes. Key steps include:

  1. Verify or update your address (Block 6) if needed.
  2. Indicate your relationship to the reservation holder (e.g., self, spouse, child, or representative).
  3. Check your intent: Yes (retain the gravesite) or No (relinquish it). If yes, specify your relationship to the veteran.
  4. Provide additional information if replying on behalf of someone incapacitated or deceased.
  5. Sign, date, and include your phone number.
  6. Return the detached form using the provided postage-paid envelope.

Download the latest VA Form FL40-40 here:
Download VA Form FL40-40 PDF

Eligibility for VA National Cemetery Gravesites

Gravesite reservations are available to veterans, service members, and certain family members who meet VA burial eligibility criteria. Pre-need eligibility is determined separately using VA Form 40-10007.

A reservation does not guarantee burial in a specific cemetery at time of need, but it confirms eligibility in advance. For full eligibility details, visit the official VA page on pre-need determinations.

What Happens If You Don’t Respond?

If you fail to return the completed questionnaire, the VA may cancel the gravesite reservation. This ensures sites are available for veterans and families who actively need them. Always respond even if your information hasn’t changed.

Related VA Burial Benefits and Forms

  • VA Form 40-10007: Application for Pre-Need Determination of Eligibility for Burial in a VA National Cemetery.
  • Burial in VA national cemeteries typically includes the gravesite, opening/closing of the grave, a government headstone or marker, and perpetual care (space permitting).

Find a complete list of VA national cemeteries: VA National Cemeteries Directory

Tips for Veterans and Families Planning Ahead

  • Apply for pre-need eligibility as early as possible using VA Form 40-10007.
  • Keep your contact information updated with the VA.
  • Discuss your wishes with family members so they know about any existing reservations.
  • Contact the specific national cemetery listed on your FL40-40 for questions, or reach the National Cemetery Scheduling Office at 1-800-535-1117.

Official Resources and Contact Information

For the most current information:

This article is for informational purposes only and is based on official VA sources as of 2026. Always refer to va.gov for the latest forms, instructions, and eligibility rules.