How to apply for Kentucky State Veterans Cemeteries (No-Cost Burial for Veterans)

Who it's for

Kentucky operates five state veterans cemeteries — Kentucky Veterans Cemetery West, Central, North, North East, and South East. Burial services are free for the veteran: the gravesite, opening and closing of the grave, perpetual care, a headstone, a burial flag, and a Presidential Memorial Certificate all come at no cost. A spouse may also be buried for a $500 fee that is not owed until the time of death, and minor children and some unmarried adult dependent children may be eligible too. Any veteran whose discharge was not dishonorable can qualify, and Kentucky residency is not required. Filing the eligibility application ahead of time settles the paperwork before the family ever needs it.

What you'll need

• DD-214 or other military discharge paperwork (discharge must not be dishonorable)
• Kentucky Veterans Cemeteries Eligibility Application (available on the KDVA website)
• Marriage certificate for spouse eligibility

Where to apply

What to say when you call

“Hello, I'm calling to ask about Kentucky State Veterans Cemeteries (No-Cost Burial for Veterans). I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need dd-214 or other military discharge paperwork (discharge must not be dishonorable), kentucky veterans cemeteries eligibility application (available on the kdva website), marriage certificate for spouse eligibility — is anything else required? What is the best next step?”

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Gather your military discharge paperwork, such as your DD-214. The discharge must not be dishonorable. If applying for a spouse, also gather your marriage certificate.
2. Download and complete the Kentucky Veterans Cemeteries Eligibility Application from the Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs (KDVA) website.
3. Submit your application and documents online through the KDVA website, or call the Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs at 502-564-9203 to apply by phone or get help.
4. Keep copies of all documents you submit for your records.
5. If you have questions about eligibility — for yourself, a spouse, or a dependent child — contact a Kentucky state veterans cemetery or the Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs before you need to use the benefit.

What to expect: After submitting the eligibility application, the Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs will review your discharge paperwork and confirm eligibility. Filing ahead of time means the paperwork is already settled before the family needs it, making a difficult time easier. Burial services — including the gravesite, opening and closing of the grave, perpetual care, a headstone, a burial flag, and a Presidential Memorial Certificate — are provided at no cost to the veteran. A $500 fee applies for a spouse's burial, but that fee is not owed until the time of death. Processing times vary, so contact the KDVA for an estimate after you apply. There is no Kentucky residency requirement to qualify.