Veterans Benefits

As part of the services we provide to U.S. Veterans and their families, Rice Funeral Home will complete all of the necessary paperwork and make arrangements for the following benefits for which the veteran is entitled. If you cannot locate veteran paperwork such as the form DD-214 we may be able to obtain the information for you. If you are pre-planning funeral arrangements please contact us so we can obtain the needed paperwork in advance.

• Burial Flag - A United States flag is provided, at no cost, to drape the casket or accompany the urn of a deceased veteran who served honorably in the U. S. Armed Forces. It is furnished to honor the memory of a veteran's military service to his or her country. The flag is given to the next-of-kin, as a keepsake, after its use during the funeral service.
• Military Funeral Honors - The rendering of military funeral honors is one way we show the nation’s deep gratitude to those who, in times of war and peace, have faithfully defended and served our country. This ceremonial paying of respect is the final tribute provided to the veteran and the family who supported them during their service.
• VA Burial Allowance
  
• Burial in a Massachusetts or National Veterans Administration Cemetery
• Veterans Headstone or Marker - Upon request and at no charge to the applicant, VA will provide a headstone, grave marker or medallion for the grave of any deceased eligible Veteran. In some private cemeteries there is a charge by the cemetery to install the headstone or marker.
• VA Life Insurance Policy
• Presidential Memorial Certificates
  

Massachusetts Veterans who are receiving assistance under M.G.L. Chapter 115 may be eligible for state funds of $4,000, provided that the total funeral expenses do not exceed $5,000. Rice Funeral Home will complete and submit state Form V.S.9 from The Commonwealth of Massachusetts Office of Commissioner of Veterans’ Services on behalf of the family of those veterans who qualify for and wish to apply for this benefit.