County tweaks veteran burial policy

The Flathead County commissioners on Monday unanimously approved changes to the county’s policy for veteran burial stipends.

The changes are aimed at clarifying the reimbursement process.

State law requires counties to pay $500 toward burial expenses for veteran residents in the county and $100 toward the replacement of a headstone.

Flathead County has spent an average of $80,000 to $90,000 per fiscal year over the past couple of years on veteran burial expenses, according to county Finance Director Sandy Carlson.

A veteran is defined in state law as an honorably discharged man or woman who served in active duty with the United States armed forces in service other than training.

Flathead County’s new policy will require completion of a veteran authorization and claim form. If multiple parties qualify for reimbursement, payment will be made on a first-come, first-served basis based on the date of the application form.

The applicant must provide proof of payment for services before reimbursement will be made. In the case of a prepaid funeral, the surviving spouse is entitled to reimbursement. If there is no surviving spouse, the deceased’s estate is entitled to reimbursement through probate. No reimbursement will be made to personal representatives or heirs.

The new policy further stipulates that no reimbursements will be made to the funeral home or headstone business.

Carlson said the policy was fine-tuned because of past issues over reimbursement of the county allowance.

In the coming months the commissioners also will review the county’s policy for indigent burials for veterans.