Some veterans who pass away while receiving VA-provided home hospice care will be eligible for a full VA burial allowance, the VA announced July 10, enacting one of many provisions in a MOAA-backed bill passed late last year.

The Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act ensures these veterans are among those eligible for the full benefit, which had not been the case under prior law. The change “better supports veterans who choose to spend their final days at home, surrounded by loved ones,” VA Secretary Doug Collins said in the announcement.

The benefit expansion applies to those who pass away between July 1, 2025, and Oct. 1, 2026, and were receiving hospice care at home after being discharged from a facility where they were receiving VA-provided medical or nursing care. Family members of these veterans are asked to reach out to their local VA for further details and benefit application information; more information on VA burial benefits is available on the VA website or by calling (800) 827-1000.