How to apply for New York State Veterans Cemetery — Finger Lakes (Burial Benefits)

Who it's for

New York's first state-run veterans cemetery — the New York State Veterans Cemetery – Finger Lakes — sits on 162 acres along Seneca Lake in Romulus, Seneca County, and is open for interments. The State Department of Veterans' Services has managed it since February 2023. Burial is available to veterans discharged from active duty under other than dishonorable conditions, plus the veteran's legal spouse and eligible dependent children; certain reservists and National Guard members also qualify. Each burial includes a 30-minute committal service at the cemetery shelter, with cemetery staff completing the interment. Making pre-arrangements with a funeral director ahead of need keeps the discharge paperwork easy to find when it matters.

What you'll need

• DD-214 or other military discharge paperwork (discharge under conditions other than dishonorable)
• Marriage certificate for spouse eligibility

Where to apply

What to say when you call

“Hello, I'm calling to ask about New York State Veterans Cemetery — Finger Lakes (Burial Benefits). 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 under conditions other than dishonorable), 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. Confirm eligibility before applying. Burial is open to veterans discharged under other than dishonorable conditions, their legal spouses, and eligible dependent children. Certain reservists and National Guard members may also qualify. Note that a burial fee applies for dependents — call 1-888-838-7697 to confirm costs and eligibility with a Veterans Benefits Advisor.
2. Gather the required documents. You will need the veteran's DD-214 or other military discharge paperwork showing discharge under conditions other than dishonorable. If applying for a spouse, also gather the marriage certificate.
3. Consider making pre-arrangements with a funeral director ahead of need. This keeps discharge paperwork organized and easy to locate when it matters most.
4. Apply online through the New York State Department of Veterans' Services, or call 1-888-838-7697 to apply by phone or speak with a Veterans Benefits Advisor who can guide you through the process.

What to expect: After submitting an application, the cemetery will confirm eligibility and coordinate burial details with you and your funeral director. Each burial includes a 30-minute committal service at the cemetery shelter, with cemetery staff completing the interment. Processing times vary, so contact the cemetery directly at 1-888-838-7697 for an estimate and to ask any questions about next steps. This benefit does not have a periodic renewal — it is a one-time arrangement made at the time of need or in advance through pre-arrangements.