Getting Your DD214: Accessing Military Service Records Online

Last updated 3 months ago. Our resources are updated regularly but please keep in mind that links, programs, policies, and contact information do change.

For veterans of the United States Armed Forces, the DD Form 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, is more than just paperwork—it’s a gateway document. It summarizes military service and is essential for accessing benefits, securing employment, obtaining loans, and verifying military service.

This guide explains how veterans and their next-of-kin can request a DD214 online, understand eligibility requirements, anticipate timelines, and troubleshoot common issues.

Understanding Your DD Form 214

What It Is

The DD Form 214 is the Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty. It’s the official “Report of Separation” issued when a service member completes active duty or finishes at least 90 consecutive days of active duty training. This document serves as definitive proof of military service.

The DD214 has been the standard separation document issued by all military services since January 1, 1950. Before that date, several similar forms were used, including the WD AGO 53, WD AGO 55, WD AGO 53-55, NAVPERS 553, NAVMC 78PD, and the NAVCG 553.

It’s important to distinguish the DD214, often informally called “separation papers” or “freedom documents,” from certificates issued merely as a formality during reenlistment or promotion ceremonies. The DD214 specifically marks the end of a period of active service obligation.

Key Information Contained

The DD Form 214 provides a comprehensive snapshot of a veteran’s service record. Key data points typically include:

• Entry Details: Date and place of entry into active duty, home address at the time of entry
• Separation Details: Date and place of release from active duty, home address after separation
• Service Details: Last duty assignment and rank, military job specialty (e.g., MOS, AFSC, NEC), military education and training completed
• Awards and Recognition: Decorations, medals, badges, citations, and campaign awards received
• Service Time: Total creditable service, foreign service credited
• Separation Specifics: Information about the separation itself, such as the date and type of separation (e.g., Honorable, General), character of service, the authority and reason for separation, separation program designator (SPD) or separation program number (SPN) codes, and reenlistment eligibility codes

This verified information is why so many different entities require the DD214.

Crucial Uses

Possessing a copy of the DD214 is fundamental for accessing benefits and opportunities earned through military service. Common essential uses include:

• VA Benefits: Applying for healthcare, disability compensation, education benefits (like the GI Bill®), VA-backed home loans, burial benefits, and more
• Employment: Proving veteran status for federal and state hiring preferences, or for employers seeking candidates with military experience
• State and Local Benefits: Accessing veteran-specific programs offered by state or county governments
• Veterans’ Organizations: Membership eligibility for groups like the VFW or American Legion
• Personal Needs: Replacing lost medals and awards, personal record-keeping, or genealogical research

Given its critical role, knowing how to obtain a replacement copy is vital for every veteran.

The Official Source: Requesting Records Online via NARA’s eVetRecs

Introducing NARA and the National Personnel Records Center

The official custodian for records of discharged and deceased veterans from all military branches is the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). Within NARA, the specific facility responsible for storing Official Military Personnel Files (OMPFs) is the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC), located in St. Louis, Missouri.

Typically, a service member’s records are transferred to the NPRC approximately six months after their separation, retirement, or death. Establishing NARA and the NPRC as the definitive official source is important, as various third-party companies advertise DD214 retrieval services, often charging fees for requests that veterans and next-of-kin can usually make for free directly through NARA.

eVetRecs: The Primary Online Portal

For veterans and their families seeking records online, NARA’s primary tool is the eVetRecs system. This web-based application is the preferred method for submitting requests to the NPRC, primarily because it eliminates mailroom processing time and gets the request into the system faster than traditional mail.

The system is designed to be compatible with current web browsers and mobile devices, though using the most updated version of a browser is recommended.

Navigating eVetRecs: A Step-by-Step Guide

Launching Your Request

Initiating a request through eVetRecs is designed to be a guided process:

1. Navigate to the eVetRecs portal
2. Select the option to “Make a new request”
3. The system will lead you through a series of 5 to 6 steps, clearly indicating progress along the way

Mandatory Identity Check: Using ID.me

A crucial and relatively recent change to the eVetRecs process is the mandatory identity verification step using the third-party service, ID.me. This verification is required for submitting all new requests and also for retrieving any electronic responses (digital copies of records) provided by NARA.

Clicking the “Start Request Online” button (or similar wording) on the NARA site will initiate this ID.me process before proceeding with the eVetRecs request form itself. This requirement was implemented to protect veteran privacy and enhance the security of accessing sensitive personnel records.

Requesters should be prepared for the ID.me process, which typically involves:

• Creating an account (if one doesn’t exist)
• Verifying identity through providing personal information
• Uploading photos of government-issued ID (like a driver’s license or passport)
• Potentially taking a “live selfie” using a smartphone or webcam

While necessary for security, this step can sometimes present challenges, which are addressed later in the troubleshooting section.

Information You’ll Need to Provide

To successfully locate a veteran’s records, NARA requires specific identifying information. Providing complete and accurate details is essential to avoid delays or an unsuccessful search. Be prepared to furnish as much of the following as possible:

• Veteran’s Full Name: The complete name used during military service (Last, First, Middle)
• Service Number or Social Security Number (SSN): The veteran’s service number (used primarily before the early 1970s) or their SSN
  • eVetRecs Tip: Enter service numbers as numeric digits only, without dashes, spaces, or letters. If the system flags it as invalid, leave the field blank and enter the number in the comments section later in the process.
• Branch of Service: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard
• Dates of Service: The date entered and the date released or separated from the relevant service period
• Date and Place of Birth: This information is particularly helpful if the service number is unknown or uncertain

Additional Information for Records Potentially Affected by the 1973 Fire

A major fire at the NPRC in 1973 destroyed a significant number of records, primarily for:

• Army personnel discharged between November 1, 1912, and January 1, 1960
• Air Force personnel discharged between September 25, 1947, and January 1, 1964 (especially those with surnames Hubbard through Z)

If the veteran served during these periods, providing the following additional details can significantly aid the search for surviving or alternate records:

• Place of discharge
• Last unit of assignment
• Place of entry into the service (if known)

Completing the Online Form

Once past the ID.me verification, the eVetRecs system presents the request form itself. Key sections include:

Step 1: Identify the Requester Select the appropriate option:

• “Veteran”
• “Next of Kin of Deceased Veteran”
• “Other” (e.g., a legal representative, VSO, researcher)

If selecting “Other,” the system will likely prompt for relationship details and require uploading proof of authorization from the veteran or NOK later in the process.

Step 2: Select Documents Needed Use the provided drop-down menus to indicate the type of record or information being requested (e.g., DD Form 214/Separation Document, Official Military Personnel File (OMPF), Medical Records, Military Awards/Decorations).

A common pitfall is submitting multiple, separate requests for different items. NARA advises against this, as it can delay processing. Instead, if multiple items are needed (like a DD214 and medical records), select one primary item from the menu and then list the additional requirements clearly in the Comments section in Step 3.

Step 3: Provide Email Address A valid email address is required. NARA will use this address to send confirmations, status updates, and, whenever possible, a digital copy of the requested records or instructions for accessing them.

It is crucial to ensure that email filters are set to allow messages from the @nara.gov domain to prevent important communications from being routed to spam or junk folders.

Deleted vs. Undeleted DD214 Copies Explained

During the request process, either via eVetRecs or the SF-180 form, requesters are typically asked to specify whether they need a “deleted” or “undeleted” copy of the DD Form 214:

Undeleted Copy: This is the complete version of the DD214, containing all recorded information. This includes potentially sensitive items such as the specific authority and reason for separation, the character of service (e.g., Honorable, General Under Honorable Conditions, Other Than Honorable), reenlistment eligibility codes, separation codes (SPD/SPN), and any dates of time lost due to unauthorized absence or confinement. The undeleted copy is ordinarily required to determine eligibility for most veteran benefits.

Deleted Copy: This version has certain sensitive data elements removed or blacked out. The specific items deleted typically include the authority for separation, reason for separation, reenlistment eligibility code, and separation (SPD/SPN) code. For separations that occurred after June 30, 1979, the character of separation and dates of time lost are also deleted.

Unless there is a specific reason to request the deleted version, veterans seeking documentation for benefits should generally request the undeleted copy.

Reviewing and Submitting with Electronic Signature

The final stage in the eVetRecs process involves careful review and submission:

Review: Thoroughly check all the information entered throughout the previous steps in the “Review and submit” section. Accuracy is paramount.

Electronic Signature: Provide an electronic signature. Critically, this signature must exactly match the name entered in the “Requester information” section earlier in the form. Mismatched names will cause processing issues.

Authorization (If Applicable): If the request is being made by someone other than the veteran or the next-of-kin of a deceased veteran, and the necessary authorization document (signed by the veteran or NOK) was not uploaded during the process, a signed authorization must be faxed or mailed separately to the NPRC. This separate submission must cite the unique request number provided upon completion of the eVetRecs submission.

Legal Declaration: Submitting the request involves declaring under penalty of perjury that the information provided is true and correct.

Confirmation: After submission, the system will provide a confirmation, typically including a request number. It is essential to save this request number, as it will be needed to check the status of the request later.

Are You Eligible to Request a DD214?

Access to military service records, especially those less than 62 years old, is governed by privacy laws. Understanding who is eligible to request these records is key.

The Veteran

The most straightforward case is the veteran themselves. Any person who served in the military has the right to request copies of their own military service records, including the DD214.

Next-of-Kin (NOK) of Deceased Veteran

If the veteran is deceased, their legal next-of-kin (NOK) generally has the same access rights to the records as the veteran would have. NARA defines the NOK specifically as:

• The un-remarried surviving spouse
• Father
• Mother
• Son
• Daughter
• Sister
• Brother

Crucially, any request from a NOK must be accompanied by proof of the veteran’s death. Failure to provide this proof is a common reason for requests to be delayed or denied. Acceptable forms of proof include:

• A copy of the death certificate
• A letter from the funeral home handling arrangements
• A published obituary

Authorized Third-Party Requesters

Individuals or organizations who are not the veteran or the defined NOK (such as lawyers, doctors, historians, Veteran Service Officers (VSOs), or researchers) may request information from a veteran’s record, but only if they have received explicit, written authorization from the veteran or the NOK (if the veteran is deceased).

This authorization must be signed, dated, and clearly specify exactly what information or documents NARA is permitted to release to the third party. This authorization typically needs to be submitted along with the request, either uploaded via eVetRecs or sent via mail/fax with an SF-180.

The 62-Year Rule: When Records Become Public

A fundamental principle governing access is the “62-Year Rule”. This rule dictates that 62 years after a service member separates from military service, their Official Military Personnel File (OMPF) is legally transferred from the Department of Defense to the legal custody of NARA and becomes an “archival” record. To determine if a record is archival, simply take the current year and subtract 62.

Archival Records (Separation 62+ years ago): These records are open to the public. Anyone – the veteran, NOK, genealogists, historians, general public – can request copies of these records. However, requests for copies of archival records typically involve a fee.

Non-Archival / Federal Records (Separation less than 62 years ago): These records remain under federal control and are subject to access restrictions under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and the Privacy Act. Access is generally limited to the veteran, the NOK (if the veteran is deceased), and properly authorized third-party representatives. While the general public might be able to obtain limited, non-private information from these records under FOIA, access to the full file, including the DD214, is restricted.

Timelines, Costs, and Handling Urgent Needs

Expected Processing Times

Managing expectations regarding how long it takes to receive requested records is important. NARA’s National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) receives a high volume of requests – approximately 4,000 to 5,000 per day. Consequently, processing times can vary considerably. Factors influencing the timeline include:

• Request Complexity: A simple request for only a DD214 is generally faster than a request for an entire OMPF or specific medical records.
• Record Availability: Records might be stored offsite, require repair, or, in the case of the 1973 fire, may be damaged, incomplete, or require reconstruction efforts, all of which adds time. Fire-affected records needing preservation treatment can take several extra weeks.
• NPRC Workload: The sheer volume of incoming requests creates inherent processing queues.

While NARA aims to respond to requests for separation documents within 10 business days a high percentage of the time, numerous reports indicate that waits can often extend to several weeks or even months, particularly for more complex requests or during periods of high demand.

NARA specifically advises requesters not to send a follow-up inquiry or a duplicate request before 90 days have passed since the initial submission, as doing so can actually cause further delays in processing.

Is There a Cost?

A common question is whether obtaining a DD214 costs money. The answer depends primarily on the age of the record and who is requesting it:

Non-Archival Records (Less than 62 years since separation): For veterans, their legal next-of-kin (if deceased), and authorized representatives requesting basic personnel and medical records (including the DD214) from these more recent, non-archival federal files, there is generally no charge.

Archival Records (62 years or more since separation): Because these records are open to the public, NARA charges fees for providing copies. These fees apply whether the requester is the veteran, NOK, or a member of the general public. The fee structure for a complete photocopy of an archival OMPF is typically:

• 5 pages or less: $25 flat fee
• 6 pages or more: $70 flat fee (most OMPFs fall into this category)

(Fees for records of Persons of Exceptional Prominence, or PEP files, are calculated differently, usually per page).

If a request involves a fee, NARA will notify the requester. It is crucial to remember that the official NARA channels provide free access for most veterans requesting their own recent records. Be wary of third-party services that charge significant fees for obtaining records that may be available for free directly from the government.

DD214/OMPF Request Costs Summary

Emergency Requests

NARA recognizes that some situations require expedited handling of records requests. Procedures exist for urgent needs such as:

• Funerals and Burials
• Urgent Medical Needs (e.g., upcoming surgery)
• Critical Deadlines (e.g., imminent VA home loan closing, confirmed employment start date)

To request expedited service:

Via eVetRecs: Clearly indicate the emergency by selecting any available “Emergency Request” option or by detailing the nature of the emergency and the specific deadline in the “Comments” section of the request form.

Via SF-180 (Mail/Fax): Clearly state the emergency and deadline in the “Purpose” section of the Standard Form 180. Then, fax the completed and signed SF-180 (along with proof of death if submitted by NOK for burial purposes) to the dedicated NPRC Customer Service Team emergency fax number: 314-801-0764.

Phone Follow-Up (Recommended for Faxed Requests): It may be beneficial to call the NPRC Customer Service line at 314-801-0800 the morning after faxing an emergency request (ideally around 7:00 a.m. Central Time when lines might be less busy) to confirm receipt and urgency.

VA National Cemetery Burials: If the request is needed for a burial specifically at a Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery, the funeral director or next-of-kin should contact the National Cemetery Scheduling Office directly at 800-535-1117. They have procedures to work directly with NARA to obtain necessary documentation.

It is important to note that using commercial express mail services (like FedEx or UPS) to send a request to NARA will only speed up the delivery to the facility; it will not result in faster internal processing of the request itself. Only the official emergency request procedures can potentially expedite handling within NPRC.

Beyond NARA: Other Official Online Resources

While NARA’s eVetRecs is the primary portal for most online DD214 requests, veterans may encounter other official government websites that relate to military records.

VA.gov

The Department of Veterans Affairs website, VA.gov, is a central hub for veteran benefits and services. However, it’s important to understand that VA.gov does not directly issue DD214s. Instead, the site serves primarily as an informational resource, guiding veterans on how to request their records from NARA.

VA.gov provides links to NARA’s eVetRecs system and to the downloadable Standard Form 180 (SF-180) for mail or fax requests.

There is one key exception: if a veteran submits an application for VA benefits (such as disability compensation or education benefits), the VA will typically request the necessary DD214 directly from NARA on the veteran’s behalf as part of processing the application. In this scenario, the veteran usually does not need to make a separate request to NARA.

VA.gov also provides access to other types of records distinct from the OMPF/DD214 held by NARA, such as VA medical records (through the VA Blue Button feature), VA payment history, and VA benefit letters. Additionally, VA.gov offers information and links regarding the reconstruction of records potentially lost in the 1973 NPRC fire.

For general VA inquiries, contact numbers include 800-827-1000 or the MyVA411 main information line at 800-698-2411 (TTY: 711).

MilConnect

For certain veterans, particularly those with more recent separation dates, the Department of Defense (DoD) self-service portal, MilConnect, offers a potential avenue for accessing personnel documents, including the DD214, directly online.

Access via MilConnect is typically limited based on the service branch and the date of separation or retirement. The general cutoffs are:

• Air Force: Separated/Retired after October 1, 2004
• Army: Separated/Retired after October 1, 2002 (or September 30, 2002)
• Marine Corps: Separated/Retired after January 1, 1999 (or after 1998)
• Navy: Separated/Retired after January 1, 1995 (or after 1994)

Veterans meeting these criteria can potentially request and receive scanned copies of documents from their OMPF through MilConnect’s Defense Personnel Records Information Retrieval System (DPRIS) section. Accessing DPRIS requires the user to sign in to MilConnect using a Premium DS Logon account. Standard DS Logon, My HealtheVet, or ID.me credentials may not suffice for this specific function. Information on obtaining or upgrading a DS Logon account is available on the DS Logon website linked from VA.gov or MilConnect.

It’s worth noting that the Verification of Military Experience and Training (VMET) document available on MilConnect is not an official substitute for the DD214 and cannot be used for official verification of service. If a veteran’s records are not available through MilConnect/DPRIS (perhaps due to separation date or because the records haven’t been digitized and uploaded yet), they will need to direct their request to NARA using eVetRecs or the SF-180.

MilConnect represents an alternative pathway primarily for recently separated veterans, highlighting a somewhat fragmented digital landscape where the correct portal depends on individual service history.

eBenefits

The eBenefits portal is another joint VA/DoD website that has historically provided veterans access to various benefits management tools and documents. In the past, and according to some current documentation on the site, eBenefits offered functionality to verify, review, and print documents from the official Military Personnel File, potentially including the DD214.

However, the VA is actively migrating features and capabilities from eBenefits to the main VA.gov platform to streamline the veteran experience. While the “Military Personnel File” link might still appear on eBenefits, veterans should be aware that this functionality may be diminishing or redirecting elsewhere. For the most reliable and up-to-date access to official military records, focusing on NARA’s eVetRecs or MilConnect (for eligible recent veterans) is generally advisable.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Requesting military records online, while often efficient, can sometimes present challenges. Understanding common issues and how to address them can save time and frustration.

Request Delays and Checking Status

As previously mentioned, delays beyond the initial 10-day estimate are common due to high request volume and varying complexity. NARA requests patience and advises waiting at least 90 days before making a status inquiry. If sufficient time has passed, several methods exist to check the status of a request submitted to NPRC:

Online Status Check: The quickest method is often via the eVetRecs portal. Select the “Check status of existing request” option. This requires the request number provided upon initial submission. If the request number is lost, use the “Online Status Update Request” form available on the NARA website. This requires providing the requester’s name, address, phone number, and the veteran’s branch of service to help locate the request.

Phone Inquiry: Call the NPRC Customer Service Line at 314-801-0800. Be mindful of peak calling times (weekdays, 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Central Time) and try calling earlier (starting 7:00 a.m. CT) or later (until 5:00 p.m. CT) for potentially shorter hold times. High call volume may result in being asked to call back later.

Email Inquiry: For status updates or general questions about a submitted request (but not for submitting the initial request itself), email [email protected] or [email protected]. Include the requester’s contact information and the veteran’s identifying details (name, service number/SSN, branch) and request number if available. Remember, requests for records cannot be initiated via email due to privacy regulations requiring a signature.

Impact of the 1973 NPRC Fire

The devastating fire at the NPRC in St. Louis in July 1973 remains a significant factor for veterans whose service fell within the affected periods. An estimated 16-18 million OMPFs were destroyed or damaged, including approximately:

• 80% of Army records for personnel discharged from November 1, 1912, to January 1, 1960
• 75% of Air Force records for personnel discharged from September 25, 1947, to January 1, 1964 (especially surnames Hubbard through Z)

Records for Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard personnel were largely unaffected.

If a veteran’s service falls within these Army or Air Force date ranges, their record may have been lost. NARA may still be able to reconstruct proof of service using auxiliary records that survived (like pay records or medical documents). To facilitate this, it is crucial for requesters whose records might be fire-related to provide additional details on their request form (eVetRecs or SF-180): place of discharge, last unit of assignment, and place of entry into service, if known.

Be aware that processing requests for potentially fire-damaged records can take longer, as documents may require special preservation treatment before they can be copied or viewed. VA.gov also provides resources specifically on reconstructing service records needed for VA benefit claims when originals were lost in the fire.

Dealing with Missing Information or Unfindable Records

Occasionally, NARA may report that they cannot locate a requested record, even if it wasn’t affected by the 1973 fire. This can happen for various reasons:

• Incomplete or Inaccurate Request Information: Missing or incorrect names, service numbers/SSN, or dates of service can prevent staff from identifying the correct file among millions. Double-checking the accuracy of all submitted information is the first step.
• Records Filed Under a Different Name: Name changes (e.g., due to marriage) might cause filing discrepancies.
• Records Still Held Elsewhere: Very recent records might not yet have transferred to NPRC, or certain specialized records might be held by the service branch or VA.

If NARA cannot locate a record after a thorough search based on the information provided, options become more limited. Some veterans have found success by seeking assistance from their U.S. Congressional representative’s office. Congressional staff can sometimes make inquiries on behalf of constituents and help escalate difficult cases with federal agencies like NARA.

Navigating ID.me Verification Issues

The mandatory ID.me identity verification for eVetRecs can sometimes be a stumbling block. Common issues and potential solutions include:

Browser/Technical Glitches: If the ID.me process stalls or generates errors, try standard browser troubleshooting:

• Clear the cache and cookies
• Try using a different recommended browser (like Chrome, Edge, or Firefox instead of Internet Explorer)
• Open the site in an incognito or private browsing window
• Temporarily disable VPNs and browser extensions

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Problems: If the code sent via text or phone call isn’t received:

• Check the phone’s signal strength
• If the signal is good but the code doesn’t arrive within a few minutes, try requesting the code via the alternate method (e.g., request a phone call if text failed)
• If problems persist (e.g., changed phone number), contacting ID.me support directly may be necessary to reset the MFA method

Online Identity Verification Failures: If the system cannot automatically verify identity using uploaded documents and personal information:

• Carefully retry, ensuring all information (name, address, DOB, SSN) is entered correctly
• Sometimes using a previous address might help
• If self-service continues to fail, ID.me offers alternative verification methods, such as a video call with an agent or in-person verification at certain retail locations

Document Scanning Issues: Some users report difficulty scanning IDs with holograms.

• Try different lighting conditions and angles
• If scanning consistently fails, resort to the video call or in-person verification options

For persistent ID.me issues, utilize their online Help Center or submit a support ticket through their website. VA also offers support for login-related issues via their help lines.

Understanding Encrypted Digital Delivery

When NARA fulfills a request electronically, the provided files (often PDFs) may be encrypted for security purposes. Requesters should receive an email notification from NARA when their documents are ready for digital delivery (remember to check spam/junk folders for messages from @nara.gov).

This notification email typically contains instructions for accessing the documents and should include the password needed to open the encrypted file. In some cases, the password might simply be the unique Service Request (SR) number assigned to the request.

Some users have reported issues where the password allows viewing but not editing (e.g., removing the encryption or printing), suggesting a separate editing password might exist. If encountering such issues, carefully review the NARA notification email for any specific instructions or contact NARA technical support.

How to Contact NARA for Help

If troubleshooting steps fail or specific assistance is needed, NARA provides several contact points:

General Status Updates & Non-Technical Questions:

• Phone: 314-801-0800 (Expect potential hold times, especially mid-day CT)
• Email: [email protected] or [email protected]

eVetRecs Website or Digital Delivery Technical Issues:

• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: 314-801-0800 may also offer assistance

Emergency Request Submission (Fax Only):

• Fax: 314-801-0764

Standard Request Submission (Fax Only – use SF-180):

• Fax: 314-801-9195

Mailing Address (for SF-180 or separate authorizations):

National Personnel Records Center
Military Personnel Records
1 Archives Drive
St. Louis, MO 63138

NARA General Information (Toll-Free):

• Phone: 1-866-272-6272 (1-86-NARA-NARA)

Found an Error? How to Correct Your DD214

Discovering an error on a DD214 – whether it’s a misspelling, an incorrect date, missing awards, or an inaccurate characterization of service – requires a separate process distinct from simply requesting a copy.

The Role of DD Form 215 and DD Form 149

Corrections to a DD214 are typically documented through a DD Form 215, Correction to DD Form 214. This form is issued to amend or add information to the original separation document. However, a critical point often misunderstood by veterans is that NARA itself is generally no longer authorized to issue DD Form 215s to correct clerical errors on DD214s for discharged veterans. Recent Department of Defense guidance mandates that corrections should be handled electronically by the respective military service branch.

For most corrections, veterans need to apply directly to their service branch using DD Form 149, Application for Correction of Military Record. This form is submitted to the Board for Correction of Military/Naval Records (BCM/NR) for the relevant service branch. These boards have the authority to correct errors or remove injustices in military records.

For requests specifically seeking to upgrade a discharge characterization (e.g., from Other Than Honorable to Honorable), if the separation occurred within the last 15 years, the veteran must first apply to their service’s Discharge Review Board using DD Form 293, Application for the Review of Discharge from the Armed Forces of the United States. If the discharge was more than 15 years ago, or if the Discharge Review Board denies the request, the veteran can then petition the BCM/NR using DD Form 149.

Submitting Corrections to Your Service Branch (Not NARA)

It bears repeating: Do not send requests for correction (DD Form 149 or DD Form 293) to NARA/NPRC. These applications must go directly to the appropriate entity within the veteran’s branch of service.

1. Obtain the Correct Form: Download the most current version of DD Form 149 from the official DoD forms website. DD Form 293 can also be found online or obtained from VA offices or veterans organizations.
2. Gather Supporting Evidence: The burden of proof generally lies with the applicant. Include copies of any available evidence that supports the requested correction (e.g., award certificates, orders, performance reports, witness statements).
3. Submit to the Correct Board: Each service branch has its own BCM/NR or review board with specific submission procedures.

• Air Force (includes Space Force): Offers an online application portal preferred: https://afrba-portal.cce.af.mil/
• Navy and Marine Corps: The Board for Correction of Naval Records (BCNR) accepts applications via email or mail. Website: https://www.secnav.navy.mil/mra/bcnr/Pages/default.aspx
• Coast Guard: Submit to the DHS Board for Correction of Military Records. Website: https://www.uscg.mil/Resources/Legal/BCMR/

4. Be Patient: The correction process, particularly through the BCM/NRs, can be lengthy, potentially taking up to a year or more to complete.

Alternative Method: Requesting via Mail or Fax with SF-180

While NARA strongly encourages using the online eVetRecs system for efficiency, the traditional method of requesting records using the Standard Form 180 (SF-180), Request Pertaining to Military Records, remains a fully valid and supported option.

When to Use This Method

The SF-180 is the appropriate channel under several circumstances:

• Unable to Use eVetRecs: For individuals who lack reliable internet access, are uncomfortable with online transactions, or encounter persistent technical difficulties with eVetRecs or the ID.me verification process.
• Prefer Mail/Fax: Some individuals simply prefer submitting requests via traditional mail or fax.
• Written Letter Alternative: While the SF-180 captures all necessary information, NARA also accepts requests submitted as a formal letter, provided it contains all the required details.

Finding and Completing Standard Form 180

The SF-180 form can be obtained in several ways, but the most direct is downloading it from the NARA website.

Completing the Form: The form requests the same essential information needed for an eVetRecs request: veteran’s full name, service number or SSN, branch of service, dates of service, and date/place of birth. Fill out the form as completely and accurately as possible. While the PDF may be fillable on a computer, it must be printed out to be signed.

Signature and Date: Section III of the SF-180 requires the wet signature of the requester (veteran, NOK, or authorized representative) and the date of the request. This signed authorization is a legal requirement under the Privacy Act.

Required Attachments: Remember to attach proof of death if requesting as NOK of a deceased veteran, or a copy of the signed authorization if requesting as a third party.

Where to Send the Form

This is a critical step where errors often occur, leading to significant delays. The correct mailing address or fax number depends entirely on the veteran’s branch of service, dates of service or separation, and the type of record being requested.

Consult the Form’s Instructions: The most reliable way to determine the correct destination is to carefully review the address tables provided on page 3 of the SF-180 itself. These tables specify where to send the request based on the specifics of the veteran’s service.

Main NPRC Address (Common but Not Universal): While many records are held at the main NPRC facility, sending the form there is only correct if the tables on the SF-180 indicate it. The main address is:

National Personnel Records Center
Military Personnel Records
1 Archives Drive
St. Louis, MO 63138

Standard Request Fax Number (Check Applicability): The general fax number for submitting SF-180 requests (non-emergency) to NPRC is: 314-801-9195

Warning: Sending the SF-180 to the wrong location will result in it being rerouted, adding days or potentially weeks to the processing time. Always verify the correct address using the instructions on the current version of the SF-180.

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