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.

[MOAA MEMBER EXCLUSIVE: Your Guide to Military Burials]

MOAA joined more than 40 other veterans organizations in supporting the Dole Act, which combined more than 90 pieces of legislation into a bill offering expanded benefits and support services to veterans, their families, and their caregivers. It increases the VA share of home nursing care costs from 65% to 100% and launches a pilot program for hiring more nursing aides to offer VA-backed in-home care in underserved regions, among other home-care benefits.

MOAA has been tracking the act’s implementation since it became law. One key step came in the spring, when VA officials began engaging with veterans service organizations (VSOs) to develop plans to recognize individuals and groups that provide no-cost assistance to those looking to navigate VA health care and benefits systems.

MOAA’s ongoing VA legislative advocacy includes work on behalf of the Veteran Caregiver Reeducation, Reemployment, and Retirement (3R) Act, which would expand employment, retirement planning, health care, and other financial resources available to caregivers.

[TAKE ACTION: Ask Your Lawmakers to Support Veteran Caregivers]

Keep up with the latest MOAA advocacy efforts via our newly redesigned Legislative Action Center.