NATIONAL CEMETERIES IN CALIFORNIA

Preneed funeral planning allows you to make arrangements for your final wishes in advance, relieving your loved ones of the burden of making difficult decisions during a time of grief. By preplanning your funeral, you can ensure that your wishes are honored and provide peace of mind for yourself and your family.

Yes, if you move out of town, you can typically take your preneed funeral plan with you. Most preneed plans are transferable, which means you can transfer your existing plan to a funeral home in your new location. However, it's important to check the specific terms and conditions of your preneed agreement, as transfer policies may vary by provider.

Additionally, there might be differences in service costs between different areas, which could affect the final amount you need to settle with the new funeral home. Always inform your preneed provider about your move and discuss how the transfer process will be handled.

Yes, as a veteran, you can prequalify for burial at a National Cemetery through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) pre-need determination of eligibility program. This program allows veterans to establish their eligibility for burial in a VA national cemetery before the time of need. By prequalifying, you ensure that your eligibility is confirmed in advance, which can provide peace of mind to you and your family and help facilitate the planning process.

To apply for a pre-need determination of eligibility, you will need to submit VA Form 40-10007, Application for Pre-Need Determination of Eligibility for Burial in a VA National Cemetery, along with a copy of your military discharge documents, typically your DD Form 214 or other equivalent documentation showing your discharge status and service dates.

The VA reviews the application and, if eligible, issues a decision letter that provides confirmation of your pre-need eligibility, which can be used when needed. This letter does not reserve a specific gravesite or schedule funeral services but confirms your eligibility for when the time comes.

In some cases, the VA may provide a partial reimbursement for funeral and burial expenses if the veteran qualifies. However, many funeral home, cremation, transportation, and memorial service costs are not fully covered.

Most veterans who were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable may qualify for VA burial benefits. Eligibility can depend on service history and discharge status. It's a great idea to complete the VA eligibility form for the National Cemetery to see if you & your spouse can be buried there. We can help you complete the form, Free Of Charge!

A replacement DD214 can often be requested through the National Archives or other government resources. A funeral home or veterans service professional may help guide families through the process.

Yes. Preplanning helps families understand available benefits, gather important documents ahead of time, and reduce emotional and financial stress during a difficult time.

In most cases, yes, as long as the veteran meets eligibility requirements and received a qualifying discharge.

Depending on the situation, families may still be responsible for funeral home services, cremation or embalming, caskets or urns, flowers, obituary notices, and transportation expenses.