VA Form 40-0895-15: Cemetery Certification for VA Grants

VA Form 40-0895-15: Cemetery Certification for VA Grants – VA Form 40-0895-15 is a key certification document required for participants in the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Veterans Cemetery Grants Program. It ensures that state, tribal, or eligible county government cemeteries receiving federal grants maintain high standards of appearance, operation, and care consistent with National Cemetery Administration (NCA) requirements.

This article explains the form’s purpose, who needs it, how it fits into the grant process, and provides direct access to download it. It is designed for state and tribal officials, cemetery administrators, and veterans’ advocates seeking current information on VA cemetery grants.

What Is VA Form 40-0895-15?

VA Form 40-0895-15, titled Certification of Cemetery Maintained in Accordance with National Cemetery Administration Standards, is a one-page form mandated by 38 CFR 39.31 and 39.81.

The form requires an authorized official from the state, tribal, or eligible county government to certify that a grant-assisted cemetery will be operated and maintained according to NCA’s operational standards and measures (often referred to as “shrine standards”). These standards emphasize a dignified, aesthetically pleasing, and well-maintained environment honoring veterans and their families.

OMB Number: 2900-0559
Expiration Date: October 31, 2026
Respondent Burden: Approximately 15 minutes.

Purpose of VA Form 40-0895-15 in the Veterans Cemetery Grants Program

The Veterans Cemetery Grants Program (VCGP), administered by the NCA, helps states, territories, and tribal governments establish, expand, improve, operate, or maintain veterans cemeteries. Since 1980, the program has awarded hundreds of grants supporting over 125 VA grant-funded cemeteries.

VA Form 40-0895-15 provides assurance that grant-funded cemeteries will uphold NCA standards post-construction. This includes grounds maintenance, headstone care, safety, and overall appearance to reflect the “national shrine” commitment. Compliance is verified through inspections and annual reporting.

Without this certification, preapplications may be deemed non-conforming, delaying or disqualifying grant funding.

Who Must Complete VA Form 40-0895-15?

  • Authorized officials from states, U.S. territories, or federally recognized tribal governments.
  • Entities applying for or receiving VA grants for veterans cemeteries.
  • Not available to private organizations, cities, or counties independently (though some counties may be eligible under specific provisions).

The signatory must have authority to bind the government entity.

How to Complete and Submit VA Form 40-0895-15?

  1. Download the form directly from the official VA source:
    Download VA Form 40-0895-15 PDF
  2. Fill in the cemetery name and address, Federal Application Identifier (FAI) number, and details of the authorized official.
  3. The official signs and dates the certification statement affirming compliance with NCA standards.
  4. Submit as part of the preapplication package via Grants.gov by the July 1 deadline for the following fiscal year.

It is typically included alongside other forms like SF-424 series, VA Form 40-0895-9 (Lobbying), and supporting documents.

Key NCA Standards Referenced by the Form

Grant recipients must follow NCA’s Operational Standards and Measures, which cover:

  • Grounds and turf maintenance
  • Headstone and marker installation/alignment
  • Safety and accessibility
  • Overall aesthetic and shrine-like appearance
  • Operational procedures for interments and visitor services

These standards help ensure consistency with VA national cemeteries. Recipients face periodic compliance reviews.

Benefits of Compliance with VA Form 40-0895-15

  • Access to Funding: Up to 100% of development costs for approved projects (land acquisition excluded).
  • Veteran Access: Expands burial options within 75 miles of more veterans.
  • Perpetual Honor: Ensures long-term dignified care for veterans’ final resting places.
  • Oversight and Support: VA provides guidance, inspections, and resources.

In FY2025 and recent years, the program has supported significant new cemeteries and expansions, serving tens of thousands of veterans annually.

For questions, contact the State Cemetery Grants Service at [email protected] or consult the latest guidance on cem.va.gov.

Stay Updated on VA Cemetery Grants

VA Form 40-0895-15 remains a critical compliance tool as of 2026. Always use the most current version from va.gov and verify deadlines on Grants.gov. Proper completion helps ensure veterans and families receive respectful, accessible burial options nationwide.