The DD214
Military discharge papers are officially known as DD Form 214, or DD214 for short. All Veterans receive this Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty once they are out of the military. Essentially, this form is "proof" of military service. This is one of the most important documents to have as it is the key to unlocking all kinds of benefits.
Why Would I Need A Copy Anyway?
Military.com provides a short article about the basics of the DD214: "DD214: What you need to know." This document contains information normally needed to verify military service for benefits, retirement, employment, memberships in Veterans' organizations and more. You should keep the DD214 form as private as possible as it contains personally identifying information that could put a person at risk for identity theft. Store the form in a safe location that isn't accessible to strangers.
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A significant other or next of kin may need to obtain a copy of a Veterans DD214 for a variety are reasons, such as:
How To Get A DD214?
There are several ways to request a copy of the DD214 form:
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By visiting the federal government's eVetRecs website
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Visiting the VA website for instructions on how to access the records
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By mail: Complete Form SF 180 and mail it to the National Personnel Records Center (detailed instructions on the Form SF 180 can be found here)
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By fax: Complete Form SF 180 and fax it to # 314.801.9195
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Visiting the National Personnel Records Center in person
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Contacting your state/county Veterans agency
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Hire an independent researcher
Please know, the request may take 4-6 weeks or longer.
What Is The Fastest Way To Get A DD214?
To receive a DD214 as quickly as possible, visit the eVetRecs website and, as you go through the dropdown menus, select "Emergency Request" in the dropdown under: "Which of these categories best describes why you're requesting the records?" You won't see this option until you begin going through the records request process and get to the "service and request details" section.
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A DD214 can also be obtained by faxing a record request using Form SF 180 to the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) at # 314.801.9195. Make sure to specify the emergency in the "Purpose" section of the form before faxing it. While hold times can be long, you can also call # 314.801.0800 with any questions.