Taps is the bugle call that echoes across military cemeteries and funeral services, marking the final salute to those who served. If you're planning a funeral for a veteran, understanding this tradition—and what it actually costs—helps you honor their service while managing logistics and budget. Here's what you need to know.
What Is Taps and Why It Matters
Taps is a 24-note bugle melody played at military funerals, retreat ceremonies, and Memorial Day observances. The tune signals the end of the day in military life, making it the perfect farewell for service members. Unlike some funeral customs that vary by region or religion, Taps is a universal military tradition recognized across all branches—Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Space Force.
The ceremony typically lasts 1–2 minutes and is often followed by a rifle volley (three volleys of three shots each). Together, these elements create a solemn, structured tribute that families find deeply meaningful.
Who Qualifies for Taps at Their Funeral
Not every funeral includes Taps—specific eligibility criteria apply. Active-duty service members, retired military personnel, and honorably discharged veterans are entitled to military funeral honors, which include Taps. The veteran must have a discharge status of "Honorable" or "General" (under honorable conditions); dishonorable or bad conduct discharges typically disqualify them.
Family members of eligible veterans—spouses and dependent children—may also receive honors, though this varies by branch and circumstances. Contact your veteran's branch of service directly or request a DD Form 214 (discharge papers) to confirm eligibility before planning.
How to Request Taps at a Military Funeral
Getting Taps played at your veteran's funeral requires advance coordination:
- Contact the VA or your veteran's branch: Call the Veterans Benefits hotline (1-800-827-1000) or reach out to the specific military branch at least 2–3 weeks before the service. The Air Force Funeral Honors office, Naval Casualty Assistance Calls Division, or Army Casualic Assistance Center can provide a ceremonial detail.
- Provide required documents: Have the DD Form 214 and death certificate ready. The military will verify eligibility before committing a ceremonial team.
- Coordinate with your funeral home: Your funeral director can initiate the request on your behalf, which streamlines the process. Most funeral homes handle this routinely.
- Confirm logistics with the honor guard: Once approved, confirm the date, time, and location of the service. The military detail (typically 2–5 uniformed service members) will arrive 30 minutes early to set up.
What Does Military Funeral Honors Cost
Here's the good news: Taps and basic military funeral honors are provided at no cost to the family. The military absorbs all expenses for the ceremonial detail, bugler, and rifle volley.
However, you may incur other funeral-related costs:
- Funeral home services: $2,000–$5,000+ (includes coordination, embalming, facilities)
- Casket: $800–$3,000+
- Burial at a VA cemetery: Free for eligible veterans (though opening and closing fees may apply)
- Burial at a civilian cemetery: $500–$2,000+
- Headstone or monument: Free from the VA; private options cost $500–$2,000+
VA burial benefits can offset many of these expenses. Eligible veterans may qualify for a burial allowance of $300–$2,000 depending on whether the burial is in a VA cemetery or elsewhere. Speak with a VA representative early to maximize available benefits.
Tips for Arranging Taps at Your Veteran's Service
- Request a live bugler over a recording: Most ceremonial details provide a live musician, which families prefer for its authenticity. If a live bugler is unavailable, the military will provide a high-quality recording.
- Plan timing carefully: Military details work within specific availability windows. Schedule your funeral service around the military's confirmed time, not the other way around.
- Use a funeral home familiar with military honors: Experienced funeral directors know the protocols, paperwork, and timing required. They'll handle coordination with the military and eliminate confusion.
- Ask about rifle volleys: Taps is often accompanied by a rifle salute. Confirm whether your veteran's family wants this included and whether the cemetery permits it.
Mercoly makes it easy to find and compare funeral homes experienced in military honors in your area—ensuring your veteran receives the respect and ceremony they've earned.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I get Taps played even if my veteran was discharged decades ago? Yes, as long as the discharge was honorable and you provide the DD Form 214 as proof. The military honors all eligible veterans regardless of when they served.
Q: What if no military bugler is available in my area? The military will use a high-quality recorded version of Taps, typically played through a sound system. While families often prefer a live bugler, the recorded version is still a full military honor.
Q: Do I need to hire a specific funeral home to get military honors? No—any funeral home can request military honors. Choose based on reputation, price, and experience with military services, not because they're "military-certified."
Use Mercoly to compare trusted funeral homes in your area that specialize in military honors and veteran services.