BURIAL FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

The Veterans Assistance Commission of Cook County (VACCC) Burial Assistance Program provides temporary financial assistance to eligible Veteran families to help offset funeral and burial expenses for a deceased Veteran. Qualified families may receive up to $3,000 in burial assistance to help reduce the financial burden associated with funeral services and related costs.

Basic Eligibility Requirements

To generally qualify, the deceased Veteran must:

  • Have been a resident of Cook County for at least 3 recent consecutive months
  • Have qualifying military service:
    • Minimum 6 months of Net Active Service
    • Honorable, General, GUH, or UHC discharge
  • National Guard members with less than 6 months active duty may qualify with an NGB-22 showing completion of a full contract

Common Required Documentation

Applicants should be prepared to provide:

  • DD214 or qualifying military discharge paperwork
  • Veteran’s Illinois Driver’s License or State ID
  • Veteran’s Death Certificate
  • Funeral Home unpaid invoice
  • Documentation establishing authority or responsibility for the Veteran’s affairs, such as:
    • Power of Attorney
    • Power of Administration
    • Letter from the funeral home on official letterhead designating the responsible party
  • Current government-issued photo ID for the spouse, next of kin, or requesting individual

Important Notes

  • Additional documentation may be required depending on the situation

Processing and receipt of services are conducted in person on a first come, first served basis at VACCC Headquarters located at 1100 S Hamilton Ave, C-011 (Lower Level), Chicago, IL 60612. If you have additional questions or would like to speak directly with a caseworker regarding eligibility or required documentation, please contact the VACCC office directly at 312.433.6010 and press Menu Option 1 for Emergency Financial Services.