FAQs • Shrewsbury, MA • CivicEngage

It used to be that widows and widowers lost their Veteran's Administration pensions if they remarried. Hasn't this changed?: A change in federal law that took effect October 1, 1998, allows the Veteran's Administration to resume dependency and indemnity compensation (DIC) payments and related benefits to former recipients who lost their benefits because they remarried. The new law applies to people whether that later marriage ended in divorce, annulment or death of the spouse. For information about restoring DIC, call toll-free, 800-827-1000.

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Veteran's Services

1. How do I apply for veteran's benefits?: To apply for benefits you should contact your local veteran's agent. To find your agent's contact information, visit the staff directory.

2. How do I get a flag placed on a veteran's grave for Memorial Day at Mountain View Cemetery?: Flags are placed on veteran's graves by volunteer girl scouts on the Sunday prior to Memorial Day.

3. It used to be that widows and widowers lost their Veteran's Administration pensions if they remarried. Hasn't this changed?: A change in federal law that took effect October 1, 1998, allows the Veteran's Administration to resume dependency and indemnity compensation (DIC) payments and related benefits to former recipients who lost their benefits because they remarried. The new law applies to people whether that later marriage ended in divorce, annulment or death of the spouse. For information about restoring DIC, call toll-free, 800-827-1000.

4. My father was buried in a private cemetery. Is he still eligible for a Veteran's Administration headstone? Is there any charge?: To be eligible for a Veteran's Administration (VA) headstone or marker, a veteran must be discharged from active duty under what's technically known as "conditions other than dishonorable." VA will provide a flat marker or an upright headstone, regardless of the cemetery. It is inscribed and shipped at government expense. For burials in private cemeteries, the survivors must pay the cost of placing the headstone or marker. For more information, contact the Shrewsbury Veteran's Agent by calling 508-841-8386 or visit the National Cemetery Administration website.

5. What benefits does Massachusetts offer for 100% disabled veterans?: Benefits offered include the auto excise tax, auto sales tax, 100% disabled property tax exemption, 100% disabled annuitants, housing and disabled veterans' license plates.

Note: For more information on the all benefits please look at the Veterans' Laws and Benefits Book

6. Who is eligible to receive health care through the Veteran's Administration system?: Any individual who served on active duty in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines or Coast Guard and received honorable discharge or release under honorable conditions has basic eligibility for Veteran's Administration (VA) health care. Those who served after 1980 must have served 24 months active duty to be eligible. Find more information about health care eligibility.