Although the process of obtaining available Veterans benefits can be simple, it does not always seem that way.  With our Roseburg Veterans Administration Hospital and large Veterans population here in Douglas County, many Veterans' families are left wondering how to navigate all the misconceptions and questions of what benefits they are eligible for.  As a nation we need to provide for those who proudly defend our liberty.   

Often, people think of Veterans benefits as just relating to the V.A. Hospital system. That is one part of it, but there is more.  If the Veteran passes away under VA medical care there are some immediate monetary benefits that are paid to their survivors.  Beyond that, all honorably discharged Veterans, their spouse, and sometimes children, are eligible for a maintained grave site in any national cemetery.  There are also locations for both casketed and urn burials in our local cemetery and in many throughout the nation.  Either location includes the Veterans' flags, grave marker, military honors, and a presidential certificate.  

The monetary benefits do have a time constraint, but all other benefits can be obtained many years after the time of death.  Rest assured though, while maneuvering through this paperwork path, your local Funeral Director and Veterans Service Officer are readily available to help submit these benefit claims free of charge.  It is important to know that it is actually against the law to charge for the filing of these forms.  Additionally, funeral directors will take care of the family arrangements for the burial site and scheduling with the cemetery.  Some funeral establishments will even wait for payment until the family receives payment from the government.  Ask your provider if they extend that credit.  

Remember, you are not alone.  For more information, contact your trusted funeral director.