VA Cemeteries Earn Top Rankings

The Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration (NCA) has bested corporations and federal agencies in a survey of customer satisfaction — for the sixth time. Since 1999, the government has used American Customer Satisfaction Index methods to gauge satisfaction with agencies.

Here is the most important stat this year: NCA was ranked at 96 points out of a possible 100, the highest score in public and private sectors, and 32 points above the average of 68 for federal agencies. (As a comparison, the IRS received 58 points for individual paper filers and 67 points for small business and self-employed filers. The Weatherization Assistance Program of the Department of Energy netted 67 points.)

The National Cemetery Administration was scored on maintenance of the national cemeteries, customer service and respectfulness of the service and interment. The customer service score was the highest since the survey first began and next-of-kin respondents indicated a willingness to recommend NCA to others.

Burial in a VA cemetery is open to those who meet the eligibility requirements for minimum active-duty service, were discharged under other than dishonorable conditions and more. Spouses and minor children may be eligible, even if the service member or veteran is still alive. The VA provides headstones or markers, U.S. flag, opening and closing the grave and perpetual care of the site.

For the complete list of eligibility requirements, go to www. cem.va.gov/burial_benefits/ eligible.asp. Note the extra information links down the left side of the page.

The VA recently started providing pre-need eligibility determinations for early planning. Having this sorted out can take a burden off loved ones when the time comes. To apply, you’ll need VA Form 40-10007, available on the www.cem.va.gov website, along with your DD214 or similar documentation. (c) 2017 King Features Synd., Inc.