How to apply for Washington State Veterans Cemetery (Medical Lake)

Who it's for

The Washington State Veterans Cemetery in Medical Lake provides burial for members of the armed forces who met a minimum active-duty service requirement and were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable. For the veteran there is no charge for the plot or columbarium, inscribed government marker, concrete vault, military honors, burial flag, or perpetual care. Spouses and eligible dependent children may be interred for a fee ($311 as of October 1, 2025). Call 509-299-6280.

What you'll need

• DD-214 / discharge papers
• Marriage/dependency documentation for family-member interment

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Washington State Veterans Cemetery (Medical Lake). 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 / discharge papers, marriage/dependency documentation for family-member interment — 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 basic eligibility by reviewing the veteran's military service record. Burial is available to veterans who met a minimum active-duty service requirement and were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable. Spouses and eligible dependent children may also qualify for interment for a fee.
2. Gather the required documents. For the veteran, locate the DD-214 or other discharge papers. For a spouse or dependent child, also collect marriage or dependency documentation.
3. Contact the Washington State Veterans Cemetery at 509-299-6280 to ask about eligibility, available options, and next steps. Staff can confirm whether the veteran and any family members qualify based on service and discharge records.
4. Apply online or by phone at 509-299-6280. Be ready to provide the documents gathered in the earlier step.
5. Ask the cemetery staff about current processing times and any additional steps needed to complete the arrangement.

What to expect: After submitting an application, the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs will verify eligibility using the veteran's military records. Because eligibility depends on confirmed service and discharge status, this program may show as a "may qualify" result until WDVA completes that review. For veterans, there is no charge for the plot or columbarium, inscribed government marker, concrete vault, military honors, burial flag, or perpetual care. Spouses and eligible dependent children may be interred for a fee. Processing times vary, so ask cemetery staff for an estimate when you call.