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.
It is NOT a public record — veterans must request their own copy through the National Archives.
→ A missing or inaccurate DD-214 can be corrected or supplemented with a DD-215.
Also known as
Related terms
- C-File
The complete official record of a veteran's VA disability claims history, including medical records, rating decisions, service records, and all correspondence with the VA.
- DD-215
An official form issued by the Department of Defense to correct errors or add missing information to a veteran's DD-214 discharge document.
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Frequently asked questions about DD-214
What is a DD-214?+
A DD-214 is a paper given to veterans when they leave active military service. It shows important details like when they served, how they were discharged, and any awards they received. This document is very important for getting veteran benefits.
Why is my DD-214 important?+
Your DD-214 is important because it proves you were in the military. You will need it to apply for VA disability, education benefits, home loans, and many other services for veterans. It's the key to unlocking your benefits.
How do I get a copy of my DD-214?+
If you need a copy of your DD-214, you can request it from the National Archives. This can be done online, by mail, or fax. BenefitKarma's VA Records Request tool can help you with this process to make it easier.
Can I get VA benefits without my DD-214?+
It is very hard to get VA benefits without your DD-214. This document confirms your service, which is needed to prove you qualify. If you don't have it, you should request a copy right away to avoid delays with your benefits.