Get a Replacement DD214
Beyond medical records, beyond medals and beyond pay stubs, the most important document a military veteran can have is a DD 214. The DD 214, or the Department of Defense Form 214, shows how long a military veteran served, what type of discharge she had, and what benefits she is entitled to. It isn't a large, complicated form but it possesses key information often needed for continuing education such as the GI Bill or for obtaining an advantage in the job market. Many veterans lose copies of their DD 214 and need to get a replacement.
Instructions
1. Check with your last base. If you didn't separate too long ago, there is a chance that the military separations section of your old base may have a digital copy of your DD 214. It is best to go in person and make the request rather than to do it by phone.
2. Look at the last place of residence you put on record. Many veterans forget to change their place of residence, which can be different from where they started their career. Your copy of your DD 214 could have been mailed there if the address change wasn't made.
3. Research the VA Regional Office for a copy of your DD 214 if you filed a medical claim within the past five years. You can't even register into their system until you have a DD 214.
4. Log onto the Veteran Records website (see Resources). Follow instructions on get your DD 214. The instructions do include faxing or mailing forms that require your signature and your Social Security number. They have to be received within 20 days of the request, so don't delay.
Tags: copy your, Many veterans, military veteran, place residence