Is the burial allowance effective immediately upon the veteran's death?

The burial allowance is not automatically effective immediately upon a veteran's death; it does depend on certain circumstances. This determination is based on various factors, including the nature of the veteran's death and the completion of necessary administrative procedures. For instance, if the death is service-connected, there are specific guidelines and requirements that must be met in order to qualify for the burial allowance. Additionally, the claims process has timelines and documentation requirements that can affect the timing of the allowance. Therefore, understanding the nuances surrounding the eligibility criteria and the claims process highlights why the allowance is contingent upon specific circumstances rather than being universally effective upon death.