The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. (VFW) provides advisory and financial assistance to members and surviving spouses, children, and dependents. 

Life and Accident Insurance

The VFW provides free, member-only limited accidental death benefits. The amount of coverage varies based on the type of injury and the age of the deceased member with a maximum benefit of $1,000. If the member's death results from an accident while traveling as a fare-paying member in a commercial vehicle an additional payment of $1,500 may be available. In the event of a member’s death, the benefit typically goes to a spouse or surviving dependent. The VFW also offers members competitive rates on additional life insurance, typically with no medical exams or health questions asked. Additionally, all veterans are eligible to enroll in the US Department of Veterans Affairs Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance policy. 

Burial Planning

While all members of the US Armed Forces are eligible for burial at a national cemetery, the VFW provides special planning services to members. The VFW helps members obtain benefits such as a presidential certificate, American flag, perpetual care, and an official US Armed Forces headstone. Many of these services must be requested in advance, and the VFW can help file the necessary paperwork. The VFW can also help surviving family members receive benefits if they are eligible. 

Benefit Assistance

The VA system can be difficult to navigate, so the VFW provides services to support members and surviving family members. The VFW can help veterans and families file forms and determine which financial benefits spouses and dependents are eligible for. In the event that a benefit claim is denied, the VFW provides free administrative assistance to members. 

Appeal Assistance

The VFW can also request appeal hearings with the VA and the Board of Veterans Appeals. VFW service officers are familiar with current legislation and can help survivors file government forms and appeal death benefits for which they are eligible. 

If you are an eligible military service veteran and not currently a VFW member, you can join by visiting vfw.org/join today.