California is home to more veterans than any other state in the nation. Yet many veterans and their families are unaware of the full range of burial and funeral benefits available to them through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the State of California.
This guide explains what benefits are available, who qualifies, and how to access them.
Federal VA Burial Benefits
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers several burial benefits to eligible veterans and, in some cases, their spouses and dependents.
Burial Allowance
A monetary allowance toward the cost of burial and funeral expenses. The amount depends on whether the death was service-connected and whether the veteran was receiving VA pension or compensation at the time of death. Service-connected deaths qualify for higher allowances.
Presidential Memorial Certificate
An engraved paper certificate signed by the President of the United States, expressing the nation's gratitude for the veteran's service. Available to the next of kin of any honorably discharged veteran at no cost.
Government Headstone or Marker
The VA will provide a headstone, marker, or niche cover for eligible veterans buried in any cemetery — not just national cemeteries. For columbarium placement, a niche cover (a flat marker) is available at no cost.
Burial Flag
An American flag is provided to drape the casket or accompany the urn of an eligible veteran. The flag is presented to the next of kin following the service.
California State Veterans Benefits
In addition to federal VA benefits, California offers its own veterans burial programs.
California State Veterans Cemetery
California operates several state veterans cemeteries, including one in the Bay Area. Eligible veterans and their spouses may be interred at no cost. However, these cemeteries are separate from the San Francisco Columbarium and have their own eligibility and availability requirements.
California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet)
CalVet provides a range of services to veterans and their families, including assistance navigating federal VA benefits. Their offices can help you determine eligibility and file claims.
Who Qualifies for VA Burial Benefits
In general, the following individuals are eligible for VA burial benefits:
- Veterans who were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable
- Service members who died on active duty
- Reservists and National Guard members who were activated and died under qualifying circumstances
- Spouses and dependent children of eligible veterans (for certain benefits)
Eligibility for specific benefits varies. The VA's burial benefits website and our specialists can help you determine exactly what applies to your situation.
How to Apply
Applying for VA burial benefits typically requires:
- The veteran's DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty)
- The death certificate
- Receipts for funeral and burial expenses (for monetary allowances)
- Completion of VA Form 21P-530 (Application for Burial Benefits)
Claims must generally be filed within two years of the veteran's burial. Our staff can assist you with the paperwork and ensure you receive every benefit you are entitled to.
"Many families leave significant VA benefits unclaimed simply because they did not know they existed or did not know how to apply. Our specialists are here to help."
Veterans at the San Francisco Columbarium
The San Francisco Columbarium has honored veterans of every American conflict, from the Civil War to the present day. We work directly with the VA to ensure eligible veterans and their families receive all applicable benefits, and we are experienced in coordinating military honors, flag presentations, and other ceremonial elements of a veteran's service.
If you are a veteran or the family member of a veteran considering preplanning, we encourage you to contact us. We will walk you through all available benefits and how they can be applied toward columbarium placement and funeral services.
We Help Veterans and Their Families Navigate Every Benefit
Our specialists are experienced in VA benefits and can help ensure you receive everything you are entitled to. Contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation.
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