By Andy GERO

National Cemetery Burial Eligibility

The VA provides eligibility for interment in a VA national cemetery prior to the time of need. There is a way veterans can determine if they are eligible for burial or memorialization in a VA national cemetery.

Interested individuals may submit VA Form 40-10007, the Application for Pre-Need Determination of Eligibility for Burial in a VA National Cemetery, and supporting documentation, such as a DD-214, to the VA National Cemetery Scheduling Office.

To obtain the form, visit www.cem.va.gov. Once the form is completed, submit it to the VA in one of three ways.

• Toll-free fax: (855) 840-8299 (recommended)

• Email:  eligibility.preneed@va.gov

• Mail:  National Cemetery Scheduling Office

P.O. Box 510543
St. Louis, MO 63151

The VA will review your application and provide written notice of eligibility. The VA will retain your approved application electronically to expedite burial arrangements when needed. Plan ahead so your paperwork is completed. By doing so, it will alleviate family stress that is often encountered to locate paperwork verifying your eligibility.

Andy Gero is a life member of the VFW Post 1614 and the American Legion Post 288 in La Crescenta. He may be reached through the CV Weekly at (818) 248-2740, or write Crescenta Valley Weekly at 3800 La Crescenta Ave., Suite 101, La Crescenta, CA 91214.

  Andy GERO