A DD-214 is the federal Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty issued to every U.S. servicemember leaving active service.
The DD Form 214, "Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty," is the master document for every U.S. military veteran. It records dates of service, awards, character of service (honorable / general / OTH / BCD / dishonorable), and is required for almost every VA benefit, federal job application, and military funeral honors.
Detail
- Issued by the Department of Defense at separation, retirement, or transfer to inactive Reserve/Guard.
- Multiple copies exist — Member-1 (short version) and Member-4 (long version with character of service). Always request Member-4 for benefits.
- Lost it? Request a replacement at vetrecs.archives.gov (online, 30-90 days) or via SF-180 paper form to the National Personnel Records Center in St. Louis.
- NGB-22 is the National Guard equivalent (issued by the state Adjutant General).
- DD-215 is a correction or addendum if errors are found later.
- Every benefits claim, GI Bill enrollment, VA home loan, hiring preference, and burial benefit requires a DD-214.
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