NATIONAL CEMETERIES AVAILABLE IN CALIFORNIA:
Riverside National Cemetery (Riverside, CA)
Riverside National Cemetery in California is one of the largest national cemeteries dedicated to veterans. Spread over 1,250 acres, it offers a serene final resting place for military personnel and their spouses. The cemetery is known for its poignant memorials, including the Medal of Honor Memorial and the Prisoner of War/Missing in Action Memorial.
Miramar National Cemetery (San Diego, CA)
Miramar National Cemetery, located in San Diego, California, provides a dignified and serene resting place for U.S. military veterans and their eligible family members. Opened in 2010, this 313-acre site features a peaceful setting, modern design, and hosts several poignant memorials, honoring the service and sacrifice of America’s armed forces.
Los Angeles National Cemetery (Los Angeles, CA)
Los Angeles National Cemetery, established in 1889, serves as a historic resting place for U.S. military veterans and their eligible dependents. Located in West Los Angeles, the cemetery spans 114 acres and is adorned with stately monuments and mature trees, offering a solemn tribute to those who served the nation.
Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery (San Diego, CA)
Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery, situated in San Diego, California, offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and San Diego Bay. Established in the 19th century, this historic cemetery serves as a final resting place for military veterans and their eligible family members, featuring meticulously landscaped grounds and solemn memorials that honor their service and sacrifice.
Bakersfield National Cemetery (Arvin, CA)
Bakersfield National Cemetery, located near Arvin, California, provides a solemn and dignified resting place for U.S. military veterans and their eligible family members. Opened in 2009, this serene site spans several hundred acres and features beautifully landscaped areas set against the picturesque backdrop of the Tehachapi Mountains, honoring those who served with honor and distinction.
San Francisco National Cemetery (San Francisco, CA)
San Francisco National Cemetery is a historic military burial site located within the Presidio of San Francisco. As the first national cemetery on the West Coast, it features rolling hills with views of the Golden Gate Bridge, providing a peaceful and dignified resting place for U.S. military veterans and their eligible dependents. Its iconic setting and deep historical roots make it a significant landmark.
Sacramento Valley National Cemetery (Dixon, CA)
Sacramento Valley National Cemetery, located in Dixon, California, offers a tranquil and respectful resting place for U.S. military veterans and their eligible dependents. Established in 2006, this expansive cemetery is beautifully landscaped, providing a serene environment that honors the service and sacrifice of those who have served in the armed forces.
Golden Gate National Cemetery (San Bruno, CA)
Golden Gate National Cemetery, located in San Bruno, California, is a prominent military burial site established in 1941. This meticulously maintained cemetery spans over 160 acres and serves as a solemn resting place for U.S. military veterans and their eligible family members. Its striking landscape and rows of white headstones make a poignant tribute to those who served the nation.
San Joaquin National Cemetery (Santa Nella, CA)
San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery, situated near Santa Nella, California, offers a serene and dignified resting place for U.S. military veterans and their eligible dependents. Opened in 1992, this peaceful site is characterized by its expansive vistas and meticulously maintained grounds, providing a place of honor and respect for those who have served in the armed forces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Questions Answered for your convenience.
Why is preneed funeral planning important?
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.
What if I move out of town, can I take my funeral plan with me?
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.
As a Veteran, can I prequalify for my burial at the National Cemetery?
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.
What is the best age to start planning for retirement?
The best time to start planning for retirement is as early as possible. However, it's never too late to begin. Whether you're in your 20s, 30s, 40s, or beyond, proactive retirement planning can help you achieve your financial goals and secure a comfortable retirement lifestyle.
How much money do I need to retire comfortably?
The amount of money you need to retire comfortably depends on various factors, including your lifestyle preferences, anticipated expenses, retirement age, and life expectancy. A retirement specialist can help you assess your financial situation, set realistic retirement goals, and develop a customized retirement plan tailored to your needs.
What is Medicare, and when should I enroll?
Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people aged 65 and older, as well as certain younger individuals with disabilities. It consists of several parts, including Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance). Most people become eligible for Medicare at age 65, but enrollment timelines vary depending on individual circumstances. It's essential to understand your Medicare options and enroll in a timely manner to avoid potential penalties.
What is the difference between a 401(k) and an IRA?
Both 401(k) plans and IRAs (Individual Retirement Accounts) are retirement savings vehicles, but they have different features and eligibility requirements. A 401(k) is typically offered by employers and allows employees to contribute a portion of their pre-tax income to a retirement account, often with employer matching contributions. IRAs, on the other hand, are individual accounts that individuals can open on their own and contribute to independently of their employer. Both offer tax advantages and investment options to help you save for retirement.
Why is life insurance important for retirement planning?
Life insurance can play a crucial role in retirement planning by providing financial protection for your loved ones in the event of your death. It can help replace lost income, pay off debts, cover final expenses, and leave a legacy for your beneficiaries. Additionally, certain types of life insurance, such as permanent life insurance, can accumulate cash value over time, which can be used to supplement retirement income or cover unexpected expenses.
If I have a TSP account, can I lose money in the market?
Yes, if you have a Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) account, it is possible to lose money in the market. The TSP offers various types of investment funds, some of which are subject to market risk. The funds that invest in the stock market, such as the C Fund (which invests in common stocks), the S Fund (which invests in small and mid-size companies), and the I Fund (which invests in international stocks), can fluctuate in value. When the market performs poorly, the value of these funds can decrease, leading to potential losses.
However, the TSP also offers the G Fund, which invests in government securities that are specially issued to the TSP and offers a return without the risk of losing money in the market. The F Fund, which invests in fixed-income securities, has lower risk compared to the equity funds but can still experience fluctuations based on interest rate changes.
To manage risk, it's important to choose a mix of investments that aligns with your risk tolerance, time horizon, and financial goals. Diversifying your investments across different types of funds can also help mitigate the risk of losses.
What does the VA cover for my burial expenses?
The VA will cover your burial space, the vault, opening/closing, the headstone, and honors along with a Presidential Certificate and the US Flag. The spouse and a child disable dependent can be buried for Free with the Veterans at any National Cemetery worldwide.
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