VA Form 40-0895-3: Cemetery Grants Space Analysis Guide

VA Form 40-0895-3: Cemetery Grants Space Analysis Guide – State, tribal, and eligible county governments seeking federal funding to establish, expand, or improve veterans cemeteries must navigate specific VA requirements. VA Form 40-0895-3 is a critical document in this process. It provides a detailed space program analysis for proposed cemetery buildings.

This guide explains the form, its role in the Veterans Cemetery Grants Program (VCGP), and how to use it effectively. It targets state and tribal officials, architects, and project managers across the USA.

What Is VA Form 40-0895-3?

VA Form 40-0895-3, titled State or Tribal Government Cemetery Grants Service Space Program Analysis—Buildings, is an official Veterans Affairs form revised in September 2023. It standardizes the documentation of net square footage (NSF) and gross square footage (GSF) for key cemetery support buildings.

The form helps ensure proposed facilities align with VA criteria based on a typical workload of 1-6 burials per day. It covers support facilities, maintenance buildings, and committal shelters.

OMB Number: 2900-0559
Expiration Date: October 31, 2026
Respondent Burden: Approximately 3 hours

Purpose of VA Form 40-0895-3 in Veterans Cemetery Grants

The Veterans Cemetery Grants Program (VCGP), authorized under 38 U.S.C. 2408, provides grants to states, territories, tribal governments, and eligible counties for veterans cemeteries where national cemeteries cannot meet demand.

VA Form 40-0895-3 serves as a key preapplication and application requirement. It documents that building sizes are appropriate and cost-effective. VA reviewers use it to evaluate grant proposals for compliance with space standards.

Accurate completion demonstrates thoughtful planning, which strengthens grant applications and helps avoid delays during VA review.

Who Should Use VA Form 40-0895-3?

  • State, territorial, and tribal governments applying for VCGP funding
  • Eligible county governments meeting 38 U.S.C. 2408 criteria
  • Architects and engineers (A&E) preparing project documentation
  • Cemetery project managers and designated officials

The form is mandatory for projects involving new construction or significant building improvements as part of grant applications.

Key Components and Space Standards in VA Form 40-0895-3

The form breaks down requirements into specific buildings with VA-allowed NSF and GSF calculations:

Support Facilities (Building Number 1)

  • Public Information Center (PIC): Entry vestibule with kiosk, lobby, restrooms, etc. (approx. 660 NSF)
  • Administrative Offices: Waiting room, reception, director’s office, conference room, and support spaces (approx. 1,030 NSF)
  • Shared/Honor Guard/Maintenance Staff Areas: Meeting rooms, lockers, break room, and mechanical spaces (approx. 865 NSF)

Maintenance Service/Garage (Building Number 2)

  • Maintenance service areas (wash bays, service bays, parts storage)
  • Vehicle and equipment storage garage
  • Total around 2,465 NSF with specific optional features

Committal Shelter (Building Number 3)

  • Covered committal area with bier and seating
  • Storage closet and uncovered paved assembly space

The form includes columns for Proposed by Applicant, VA Criteria, and Total VA Allowed, enabling clear comparisons. It requires certification by the A&E firm, project manager, government official, and VA reviewer.

How to Complete and Submit VA Form 40-0895-3?

  1. Download the Official Form: Access the latest version directly from the VA.
    Download VA Form 40-0895-3 PDF
  2. Review VA Guidelines: Consult the full VCGP application kit and 38 CFR Part 39 for space standards.
  3. Gather Project Details: Include project location, name, and Federal Application Identifier (FAI).
  4. Fill in Proposed Spaces: Work with architects to propose dimensions that meet or stay within VA allowances.
  5. Certify and Submit: Obtain required signatures and include the form in your preapplication or full grant package via the official VA process.

Always use the most current form and follow instructions precisely to avoid rejection.

Benefits of Proper Space Planning for Veterans Cemeteries

Using VA Form 40-0895-3 correctly helps secure funding for dignified, functional facilities. Since 1978, the program has awarded over $1 billion in grants, supporting more than 120 veterans cemeteries and hundreds of thousands of interments.

Well-planned buildings improve operations, visitor experience, and long-term maintenance efficiency while ensuring compliance with federal standards.

For the latest program updates, visit the official VA National Cemetery Administration website.

Conclusion: Streamline Your Veterans Cemetery Grant Application

VA Form 40-0895-3 is essential for demonstrating that your proposed cemetery buildings meet VA standards for size, functionality, and efficiency. By carefully completing this form, state and tribal governments can strengthen their grant applications and better serve veterans and their families with honorable final resting places.

Start by downloading the form today and consulting VA resources for your next project. Proper planning honors those who served while maximizing available federal support.