Is Your VA Funeral Claim Rejected? Here’s How to Turn a ‘No’ into a ‘Yes’

Losing a loved one is already hard enough, and dealing with denied VA funeral benefits only adds to the stress. The good news? Many of these denials are because of small, fixable mistakes. Let’s walk through the most common issues and how to correct them so you can receive the benefits your veteran loved one is entitled to.

1. Missing or Incomplete Documents

Why This Happens:
One of the top reasons claims get denied is because the VA didn’t get all the required paperwork. Without proof of service, a death certificate, or itemized receipts from the funeral, they can’t process your claim.

How to Fix It:

• Gather everything you need: You’ll want the veteran’s DD Form 214 (discharge papers), a certified death certificate, and itemized funeral costs, including transportation if applicable.
• Double-check for accuracy: The smallest errors—like mismatched dates—could cause a delay.
• Complete all forms properly: Make sure you’ve filled out VA Form 21P-530EZ correctly. Missing sections are one of the most common reasons for denial.

2. Filing After the Deadline

Why This Happens:
There’s a strict two-year deadline for claiming VA burial benefits if the death wasn’t service-related. Many families miss this deadline without realizing it.

How to Fix It:

• Know the deadlines: For non-service-connected deaths, you must apply within two years of the burial or cremation date.
• Service-connected deaths: There’s no strict time limit for these, but you should still apply as soon as possible.
• If you missed the deadline: Don’t give up just yet. Write a letter to the VA explaining the reason for the delay. In some cases, they’ll make exceptions, especially if the delay wasn’t your fault (like missing documents or VA processing delays).

3. No Proof of Eligibility

Why This Happens:
Sometimes the VA denies claims because they can’t confirm the veteran’s eligibility—usually due to missing or incorrect military service records.

How to Fix It:

• Submit the DD Form 214: This form proves the veteran’s service and discharge status. If you can’t find it, you can request a copy from the National Archives.
• Clarify service-connected details: If the death was service-related, provide supporting documents such as medical records or a death certificate that mentions the service-related cause.
• Get professional help: If you’re having trouble gathering proof, reach out to a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) for guidance. They know exactly what documents the VA needs.

4. Claiming Ineligible Funeral Expenses

Why This Happens:
Not all funeral-related expenses qualify for reimbursement. Claims that include ineligible costs, like flowers or catering, can cause delays or even denial of the full amount.

How to Fix It:

• Focus on eligible costs: The VA covers burial plots, transportation of remains, funeral service fees, and headstones or markers. But costs like flower arrangements, obituary notices, or family meals won’t be reimbursed.
• Update your expense list: If you were denied because of ineligible expenses, submit a revised claim showing only the eligible costs with itemized receipts.

5. Using Outdated or Incorrect Forms

Why This Happens:
If you’re using an old version of a form or if parts of it are incomplete, your claim could be denied.

How to Fix It:

• Download the latest forms: Always get the most up-to-date forms from va.gov.
• Fill out every section: Even small sections, like contact info or bank details, are important. Double-check that you’ve filled everything in correctly.

What If You’re Denied? Here’s What to Do Next

Getting denied doesn’t mean you’re out of options. Here’s how to take the next steps:

1. Review the denial letter: Carefully read why your claim was denied. The VA usually specifies what’s missing or incorrect.
2. Gather any missing documents: If the issue was incomplete paperwork, get the required forms and resubmit them.
3. File an appeal: If you believe the denial was unfair, you can request a review using VA Form 20-0996 (for a higher-level review) or VA Form 10182 (to go before a Veterans Law Judge).
4. Get help from a VSO: Organizations like the American Legion or Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) offer free assistance. They can help you with appeals and paperwork.

Tips to Avoid a Denial

• Submit everything at once: Include all the required documents and forms when you first apply.
• Know the deadlines: Mark your calendar and don’t wait until the last minute to file.
• Get a second set of eyes: Have a VSO review your application before you send it in.
• Keep copies: Always keep a copy of what you submit for future reference.