VA Form 40-0247: Presidential Memorial Certificate Request – The VA Form 40-0247, officially known as the Presidential Memorial Certificate Request Form, allows eligible family members and loved ones to request a Presidential Memorial Certificate (PMC) to honor the service of a deceased veteran. This engraved certificate, signed by the current President of the United States, recognizes the veteran’s honorable military service.
If you’re a next of kin, family member, or close friend of a deceased veteran eligible for burial in a national cemetery, this guide explains everything you need to know about requesting a PMC using VA Form 40-0247.
What Is a Presidential Memorial Certificate?
A Presidential Memorial Certificate is an official, beautifully designed paper certificate bearing the signature of the President. It serves as a lasting tribute to the veteran’s dedication and sacrifice in service to the nation. The program is administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) under the authority of 38 U.S.C. 112.
These certificates are provided at no cost and can be requested for display in homes, memorials, or family archives. Multiple copies may be requested for different family members or addresses.
Who Is Eligible for a Presidential Memorial Certificate?
To qualify for a PMC, two main requirements must be met:
- The deceased veteran or reservist must be eligible for burial in a VA national cemetery.
- The requester must be the next of kin, a family member, a close friend of the veteran, or an authorized representative acting on behalf of such individuals.
Eligibility generally requires honorable military service. Veterans with dishonorable discharges or certain serious criminal convictions may not qualify. The VA will verify eligibility using submitted documents.
VA Form 40-0247: Key Details and Purpose
VA Form 40-0247 is the official Presidential Memorial Certificate Request Form. The current version (revised March 2025) is the only accepted form. Older versions dated before May 2013 will not be processed.
The form is simple to complete and typically takes about 3 minutes. It collects basic information about the veteran and the requester, along with certification that the veteran did not commit certain serious crimes.
Download the Official VA Form 40-0247 here: Download VA Form 40-0247 PDF
How to Fill Out VA Form 40-0247 Step by Step?
Follow these instructions from the official form:
- Section II – Veteran/Servicemember Information: Provide the veteran’s full legal name (no nicknames, ranks, or titles), SSN or service number, date of birth, date of death, and other optional demographic details.
- Section III – Person Requesting Certificate: Enter your full name, complete mailing address, phone number, email, and the number of certificates requested.
- Type of Request: Select “Initial Request” or “Replacement/Reorder/Additional.”
- Certification and Signature: Sign and date the form, certifying the information is accurate to the best of your knowledge.
Tip: Attach photocopies (not originals) of the veteran’s DD Form 214 or other discharge documents and death certificate to speed up processing. The VA will not return original documents.
Ways to Submit Your VA Form 40-0247 Request
The VA offers several convenient submission methods:
1. Apply Online (Recommended)
Use the official online tool for the fastest processing. No need to mail paper forms.
Apply for a Presidential Memorial Certificate Online
2. Mail Your Application
Mail the completed form and supporting documents to:
NCA FP Evidence Intake Center
PO Box 5237
Janesville, WI 53547
3. Fax Your Application
Fax to: 1-800-455-7143
4. Upload or Visit a VA Regional Office
You can upload documents via Quick Submit at access.va.gov or submit in person at any VA regional office.
Processing Time and Checking Status
Processing times vary but can take several weeks to months. If you haven’t received your certificate after 4 months, contact the VA at 202-565-4964 (Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. ET) to check the status. Do not submit duplicate requests unless instructed.
You can request additional or replacement certificates by submitting a new VA Form 40-0247 marked as “Replacement/Reorder/Additional.”
Supporting Documents Required
To expedite approval:
- Copy of the veteran’s military discharge document (e.g., DD Form 214) showing honorable service.
- Copy of the death certificate.
The VA recommends including these documents. If records are unavailable, submit the request anyway—the VA will assist in verification.
Frequently Asked Questions About VA Form 40-0247
Is there a cost to request a Presidential Memorial Certificate?
No. The certificate and the request process are completely free.
Can anyone request a PMC?
No. Only eligible recipients (next of kin, family, close friends, or authorized representatives) for veterans meeting national cemetery burial eligibility may request one.
How many certificates can I request?
You may request multiple copies. Complete a separate form for each additional mailing address.
What if the veteran was buried in a private cemetery?
Eligibility is based on national cemetery burial qualification, not the actual burial location. Many veterans buried privately still qualify.
Official Resources and More Information
For the most current details, visit these trusted VA pages:
- Presidential Memorial Certificates Overview
- VA Form 40-0247 Information
- Download VA Form 40-0247 PDF
Honoring a loved one’s service with a Presidential Memorial Certificate is a meaningful way to preserve their legacy. If you have questions, contact the VA directly or consult with a veterans service organization for assistance.