Last Post Fund
The Last Post Fund is a Canadian non-profit organization and registered charity founded in 1909. Its mission is to ensure that no eligible Veteran is denied a dignified funeral, burial, and military gravestone due to insufficient funds at the time of death.
Administered on behalf of Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC), the Last Post Fund primarily delivers the Funeral and Burial Program, providing financial assistance for funeral services, burial or cremation costs, and grave marking for qualifying Canadian and Allied Veterans. The organization also manages the Unmarked Grave Program, which supplies military-style markers for Veterans' graves that have remained unmarked for five years or more, and operates the National Field of Honour, a historic military cemetery in Pointe-Claire, Quebec.
Who Is Eligible?
Eligibility for the Funeral and Burial Program is based on two main criteria:
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Service eligibility: The deceased must be a Veteran—defined as a former member of the Canadian Armed Forces who completed basic training and was honourably discharged. It also extends to certain Allied Veterans and, in some cases, members of the Merchant Navy.
Financial eligibility: Assistance is provided when the estate lacks sufficient funds, assessed through a means test (considering assets and liabilities at the time of death, with exemptions for surviving spouses or dependent children).
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Special "matter-of-right" provisions may apply if the cause of death is service-related.
How to Access the Program
Applications should be made as soon as possible after a Veteran's passing (there is a one-year limit for funeral and burial benefits). The process is straightforward:
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Contact the Last Post Fund directly at 1-800-465-7113 (toll-free) or via email at info@lastpost.ca.
A counsellor will conduct a brief interview with the next-of-kin, executor, or responsible person to determine eligibility. Have the Veteran's military service records and basic financial information ready to expedite the process. If eligible and contacted early, the Last Post Fund can arrange standard funeral services directly with a funeral home.
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For unmarked graves or other inquiries, the same contact details apply.
The Last Post Fund has supported over 150,000 Veterans and their families, ensuring they receive the respect and dignity they deserve. For more information, visit the official website at www.lastpostfund.ca.
During a time of loss, we understand that grief can be challenging to manage tasks. If you need assistance with applying to the Last Post Fund, our service officer here to help you navigate the process.