DD-214 — Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty
The official document issued to veterans upon separation or discharge from active military service, summarizing their service history.
Official source: va.gov
The DD-214 is a very important paper that all service members get when they finish their time in the military or leave active duty. This paper shows key details about their military service, like when they served, where they served, their rank, and any awards they received. It’s like a report card for their military career.
This document is essential for almost all benefits veterans can receive. For example, without it, veterans can't get help with medical care, education money, disability payments, or even loans to buy a house. Because it holds so much personal information, it's a private document. It’s not something just anyone can look up. If a veteran needs a copy, they have to ask for it themselves from the National Archives. If there's ever a mistake on the DD-214, or if some information is missing, it can be fixed with a DD-215. Often, finding your DD-214 is the first step to getting the support you've earned.
In real life
- A veteran can use their DD-214 to prove they served in the military.
- Someone might need their DD-214 to apply for certain benefits, like health care or housing.
- A person can show their DD-214 to get a discount at some stores.
Also known as
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Frequently asked questions about DD-214
What is Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty (DD-214)?+
The official document issued to veterans upon separation or discharge from active military service, summarizing their service history, character of discharge, awards, and training. The DD-214 is required for nearly all VA benefits, including disability claims, education benefits, health care, burial benefits, and home loans.
Who qualifies for DD-214?+
Veterans (and in some cases their dependents or survivors) who meet the program's specific service, discharge, and eligibility rules. Use the BK Calculator and Filing Success Score to check your situation.
How do I apply for DD-214?+
Apply at va.gov (search for the program by name) or work with a free accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO) through your state VA office.
Where can I get help?+
Use BenefitKarma's free Benefit Eligibility Screener to see what VA benefits you may have missed, or talk with a free accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO) through your state VA office.
Source: va.gov