The series consists of Funeral benefit sub-files for Boer War  veterans, which have been retained as samples. 

The files contain correspondence relating to claims for funeral benefits on behalf of deceased persons who fought in the South Africa campaign (Boer War). Although not eligible for full pension benefits, Boer War veterans and their dependents could apply for limited medical benefits as well as subsidisation of burial expenses.  
Papers contained in these records consist of letters of application from next-of-kin, undertakers and charitable organisations, such as the Little Sisters of the Poor, and related correspondence. There are also Action sheets, Applications for grant towards funeral and benefit expenses (Form 20). Several files have original documentation such as Attestation papers, medical reports and discharge papers.
Inside each folder is a brown paper file with an 'A' or 'B' number, a BW number, a 'C' file number and the person's name in full with regimental number, rank and unit in ink.
 
It is uncertain when the series was first created or when it was terminated. The closing date of the series, 1985, is based on the estimated date of birth for the youngest Boer War recruit being 1885.

The funeral benefit sub-files originated in the Assistance Section of the Repatriation Commission, later known as the Department of Veterans Affairs, and were alloted an 'A' or 'B' number from the register. It has not been possible to determine what has happened to these early registers.
 
The first twenty files have been misnumbered and later re-numbered with the correct sequence written in red ink above the original BW number which has been crossed out. The first file in the series was originally BW4. A very faint BW 1 in red ink is visible above the BW4. It is not known when the "BW" [Boer War] prefix was allocated.  
There is no uniformity in the type of cover used. When the records were first created the department made use of whatever covers were available, usually manilla folders with a re-inforced spine. The folders usually have 'deceased' stamped on the front cover, sometimes a 'C' number in ink, a date and initials. All files have the
surname, christian name in full, regimental number, rank and unit handwritten in ink on the front cover. The BW number is either stamped or handwritten.
Quantity in agency custody
None