Choosing the right services for a loved one who was a veteran can be crucial. Most people are not sure about the benefits that veterans can receive for funerary services, so it can be a good idea to learn as much as possible about these options. If you want to honor the person as they would have wanted and you want to be sure that they are recognized for their service, directors of funeral homes in Mission Viejo, CA have some things you will want to be aware of.
You want to always make sure you know who is eligible for these benefits. If the person served in the Navy, Army, Air Force, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard and they had a general discharge, then they are eligible to receive benefits. If your loved one received a dishonorable discharge, they are usually not eligible but you want to check with the VA, since there are some cases where they can be. Also, if your loved one was a member of the National Guard and they died on duty, they may also be eligible. The spouses and small children of the veteran also can have these benefits. In some instances, even the parents of the veteran can receive them.
Once you have made sure that your loved one is eligible for funerary benefits, you will want to know what these actually are. The burial at a national cemetery will be at no cost to you, and this includes the opening and closing of the grave, the grave marker or headstone, perpetual care, and a number of other services. You want to take some time to ask about the options you have. Keep in mind that you cannot reserve a spot at a national cemetery ahead of time.
One thing that you need to remember is that the VA will not pay for the costs of the actual funeral or memorial service. They will not pay for the casket, the transportation to the location of burial, the flowers, or anything else of that sort. You may be able to get reimbursements, however, so be sure to reach out to the VA to learn more about these options.
As you start making arrangements for a loved one who was a veteran, keep all of these things in mind. You do not want to run the risk of choosing an option for someone who is not eligible, so check with the VA if your loved one can receive these benefits. You also want to know exactly what will be covered and what will not be. By knowing all of this, you can make certain that your loved one will get the services you want. You can start making the arrangements by contacting a Mission Viejo, CA funeral home like us at O’Connor Mortuary. We are here to help you with all of the plans you want to make for your loved one. Call us right now to learn more.