What do you need to know about the DD214?
What is the DD214? The DD Form 214 is an official document issued by the Army, Air Force, Navy and Marines at the time of discharge or separation from military service. The DD214 shows your status as a separated or retired military member and the nature of your service including dates, awards and decorations and other important details.
What happens if I Lose my DD 214?
Some servicemembers lose their DD Form 214 in the process of doing their final military-paid-for move, and must request a replacement copy in order to claim benefits. As absurd as that may sound–the DD Form 214 is a very important document–losing vital paperwork in a military move does happen and more frequently than you might expect.
Where can I get a copy of my DD 214?
The National Personnel Records Center at the National Archives in St. Louis Missouri handles most requests for replacement DD form 214’s. You can request a copy by following the instructions at www.archives.gov/veterans/evetrecs or by sending the following information to the National Archives:
How to read a DD Form 214 block by block?
How To Read A DD Form 214 Block By Block. The DD Form 214 is broken down into blocks. Each one requires a specific piece of information starting with the first block for the service member’s full legal name and ending with Block #30 indicating whether or not the servicemember has requested the full, un-redacted “Member 4” copy of the DD Form 214.
When do I get my DD214 for re-enlistment?
The DD214 is not issued for re-enlistments or promotions. You may have received a certificate stating you have been discharged from active duty pending your re-enlistment or promotion, but this is usually a simple formality observed as a protocol as part of the promotion or re-enlistment process. When do I get my DD214?
Where can I get a DD 214 form?
DD-214’s Available Online The National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) has provided the following website for The NPRC, however, will still take several weeks to months to process your DD-214. If you require your DD-214 promptly, you’ll need to hire a private research company with
How long will my replacement DD214 take to reach me?
How long will my replacement DD214 take to reach me? The National Personnel Records Center usually processes requests within 10 working days of receipt.
Do you need a DD214 to get a VA loan?
In many cases you are required to have a DD214 to claim benefits post-retirement or separation. The GI Bill and VA home loan products are two examples—you cannot be approved for a VA home loan or the GI Bill without showing proof of service, which is the DD214 in the case of separated or retired service members.