By Arslan Hajiyev, Founder, H Memorial Group · Published · Last updated · 7 min read
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs furnishes a government headstone or marker for the unmarked grave of any eligible Veteran, regardless of the date of death. It also furnishes a bronze medallion for eligible Veterans whose grave already has a privately purchased headstone. In a private cemetery the family applies with VA Form 40-1330 (or 40-1330M for a medallion) and pays for setting the stone. Families who want a different design can buy a private military marker instead.
Key Takeaways
- The VA furnishes a headstone or marker for the unmarked grave of any eligible Veteran, regardless of date of death.
- Apply with VA Form 40-1330; request a medallion with VA Form 40-1330M.
- The VA does not pay setting or installation costs in private cemeteries.
- Verified Veterans can receive 10% off on an eligible long-term plan with Capital Grave Markers.
What does the VA provide for a Veteran’s grave?
The VA offers three options for eligible Veterans buried in private cemeteries:
- A government headstone or marker for an unmarked grave, regardless of the date of death.
- For Veterans who died on or after November 1, 1990, a government headstone or marker even if the grave already has a privately purchased one.
- A medallion to affix to a privately purchased headstone, for eligible Veterans who served on or after April 6, 1917.
What types and sizes of VA markers are available?
The VA lists these standard government memorials:
| Type | Size (in) | Approx. weight |
|---|---|---|
| Upright headstone (granite or marble) | 42 × 13 × 4 | 230 lb |
| Flat marker (granite or marble) | 24 × 12 × 4 | 130 lb |
| Flat marker (bronze) | 24 × 12, 3/4 in rise | 18 lb |
The government does not furnish a base for the bronze marker. Mandatory inscription items are legal name, branch of service, year of birth and year of death.
How do I apply for a VA headstone or medallion?
Complete the correct form and include the Veteran’s discharge documents.
- Headstone or marker: VA Form 40-1330, Claim for Standard Government Headstone or Marker.
- Medallion: VA Form 40-1330M.
- Attach documentation of military service; the VA publishes the list of discharge documents it accepts.
- Questions: the VA Applicant Assistance line is 1-800-697-6947.
What does the VA not cover in a private cemetery?
The VA does not pay the cost of setting or installing a government headstone or marker in a private cemetery. Spouses and dependents are not eligible for a government headstone or marker when buried in a private cemetery. Ask the cemetery about its setting fees before the stone arrives.
In a VA national cemetery, by contrast, the FTC notes there is no charge for setting the marker.
When does a private military marker make sense?
A private marker lets the family choose the shape, granite color, artwork and inscription, and it can carry the spouse’s name as a companion stone. Examples in our catalog include the Military Eagle Bevel Grave Marker from $505 and the Patriotic Veteran Bevel Granite Grave Marker from $750.
Until a separate written brand decision, verified eligible Veterans can receive 10% off on an eligible long-term internal plan. One base program applies per order, and it does not apply to services or third-party fees.
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Sources
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs — Headstones, Markers and Medallions
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs — Headstones and Markers: Types
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs — Headstone and Marker Inscriptions
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs — Discharge Documents
- VA.gov — Burial in a Private Cemetery
- VA.gov — Government Headstones and Markers FAQs
- Federal Trade Commission — Buying a Cemetery Site
Prices quoted are listed prices on capitalgravemarkers.com as of September 27, 2026 and may change. The product page, written quote and signed agreement control your order.
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