How to apply for California State Veterans Cemeteries (Burial Benefits)

Who it's for

California operates state veterans cemeteries as a resting place for veterans, their spouses, and eligible dependents. The Northern California Veterans Cemetery in Igo (near Redding) offers in-ground casket and urn burials, columbaria, and memorial headstones, and primarily serves the eighteen northernmost counties. The California Central Coast Veterans Cemetery in Seaside currently offers interment of cremated remains in above-ground columbaria. Eligibility follows the same rules as national VA cemeteries — generally any veteran discharged under conditions other than dishonorable, plus their spouse and eligible dependents. Families can settle the paperwork ahead of time: applying for a pre-need eligibility determination is free and creates no obligation.

What you'll need

• Eligibility for Burial Benefits Determination form (VSD-002)
• Veteran's discharge or separation document clearly showing the character of discharge (DD-214)
• Marriage certificate for spouse eligibility, and death certificate if applying at time of need

Where to apply

What to say when you call

“Hello, I'm calling to ask about California State Veterans Cemeteries (Burial Benefits). I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need eligibility for burial benefits determination form (vsd-002), veteran's discharge or separation document clearly showing the character of discharge (dd-214), marriage certificate for spouse eligibility, and death certificate if applying at time of need — is anything else required? What is the best next step?”

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Confirm eligibility before applying. Generally, veterans discharged under conditions other than dishonorable qualify, along with their spouses and eligible dependents. If a discharge may be disqualifying, contact a County Veterans Service Office — a discharge upgrade or character-of-service determination may restore eligibility.
2. Gather your required documents. You will need the Eligibility for Burial Benefits Determination form (VSD-002), the veteran's discharge or separation document showing the character of discharge (DD-214), and a marriage certificate for spouse eligibility. If applying at the time of need, also include the death certificate.
3. Choose the cemetery that fits your needs. The Northern California Veterans Cemetery in Igo serves the eighteen northernmost counties and offers in-ground casket and urn burials, columbaria, and memorial headstones. The California Central Coast Veterans Cemetery in Seaside currently offers interment of cremated remains in above-ground columbaria.
4. Apply online or by phone. Submit your completed VSD-002 and supporting documents through the CalVet online application or call CalVet at 866-777-4533 for assistance.
5. Consider a pre-need application if planning ahead. Applying before the time of need is free and creates no obligation — it simply establishes eligibility on record so families are prepared.

What to expect: After submitting your application, CalVet will review your documents and determine eligibility under U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs national-cemetery rules. Processing times vary, so contact CalVet or the cemetery office directly for an estimate. If approved, your eligibility is on record for future use. Any interment fees that may apply are confirmed by the cemetery office at the time of need. There is no periodic renewal associated with a pre-need eligibility determination, but keep your supporting documents in a safe, accessible place so they are ready when needed.