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.