📋 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Everything you need to know about requesting your DD-214 quickly, securely, and hassle-free.
1. What Is a DD-214 and Why Is It Important?
The DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty) is one of the most important documents a veteran will ever receive. It provides proof of military service and includes key details such as:
Dates of service
Discharge status
Military branch and job specialty
Awards and commendations
This document is required for VA benefits, employment, housing, legal ID, veteran discounts, and burial honors.
2. Why Use Our DD-214 Retrieval Service?
You can request your DD-214 for free through the government, but our service offers:
Lightning-fast turnaround — many are delivered in 1–3 business days
Stress-free experience — we handle the paperwork and follow-ups
Automatic refund guarantee if not delivered within 14 days
Private, secure processing of your information
Expert support every step of the way
Veterans choose our service for speed, simplicity, and peace of mind.
3. How Long Does It Take to Receive My DD-214?
Most requests are completed in 1–3 business days. We guarantee delivery within 14 days, or your money is refunded automatically. No need to email or call — the refund is processed on the 14th day if needed.
4. Is My Information Safe with Your Service?
Yes. We use bank-grade encryption and advanced security systems to keep your personal information safe. Once your DD-214 is delivered, we remove all sensitive data from our system. We never sell or share your data.
5. How Do I Request My DD-214 Through Your Website?
Getting started is simple:
Click “Order Now” on our website
Add to cart
Fill out a quick form with your basic info
Submit payment securely
We take care of the rest, including all processing and delivery
No confusing government forms. No waiting on hold. Just results.
6. What Happens If You Can’t Get My DD-214?
If we’re unable to retrieve your DD-214 for any reason outside of your control, you’ll receive a 100% automatic refund on day 14. We’ll continue working on your request even after the refund — your service is our priority.
7. Can I Request a DD-214 for a Family Member?
Yes — if you have legal authorization. You may be asked to provide:
Power of attorney
Proof of relationship
Proof of death, if the veteran is deceased
Our team will guide you through any required steps.
8. Are There Fees for Your Service?
Yes. We charge a flat fee to cover processing, paperwork, support, and secure delivery. All fees are shown clearly before checkout — no surprises or hidden costs.
9. What If I Need My DD-214 Urgently?
Most requests are processed in just a few days. If you’re in a hurry — for a job, housing, VA claim, or funeral service — submit your request now and we’ll prioritize your case immediately.
10. How Can I Contact You with Questions?
We’re here to help. If you have any questions, visit our Contact Us page and send us a message. Our team responds quickly and is happy to assist you with anything you need.
Veteran Q&A:
Your Top 100 Questions Answered
VA Benefits
What VA benefits am I eligible for?
Answer: Depends on service length, discharge type (e.g., honorable), and disability. Check VA.gov.
Link: va.gov
Advice: File a DD-214 with VA via eBenefits to start.
How do I apply for VA disability compensation?
Answer: Submit VA Form 21-526EZ online or mail it with DD-214, medical evidence.
Link: va.gov/disability
Advice: Use a VSO—find one at va.gov/vso.
What’s the VA disability rating process?
Answer: VA evaluates medical evidence, assigns 0–100% based on severity.
Advice: Submit detailed records—don’t skip exams.
How long does a VA claim take?
Answer: 3–6 months typically, faster online (eBenefits).
Advice: Track status weekly—call 800-827-1000 if stalled.
Can I appeal a VA disability decision?
Answer: Yes, file a Notice of Disagreement within 1 year.
Link: va.gov/decision-reviews/
Advice: Get VSO help—don’t miss deadlines.
What’s VA healthcare eligibility?
Answer: Requires honorable discharge, 24 months service (some exceptions).
Advice: Enroll early—bring DD-214 to VA clinic.
How do I enroll in VA healthcare?
Answer: Apply online (VA Form 10-10EZ) or at a VA facility.
Link: va.gov/health-care
Advice: Use eBenefits—faster processing.
What’s covered by VA healthcare?
Answer: Preventive care, hospitalizations, prescriptions—varies by priority group.
Advice: Check your group—call 877-222-8387.
Can I use VA healthcare with private insurance?
Answer: Yes, VA bills private insurance for non-service conditions.
Advice: Coordinate both—saves costs.
What’s the GI Bill for education?
Answer: Covers tuition, housing for 36 months—post-9/11 vets.
Link: va.gov/education/
Advice: Apply early—needs DD-214, school info.
How do I apply for GI Bill benefits?
Answer: Use VA Form 22-1990 online via eBenefits.
Advice: Pick an approved school—check VA.gov.
Can I transfer GI Bill to my kids?
Answer: Yes, if 10+ years service, approved before separation.
Link: va.gov/education
Advice: Act before retiring—talk to your command.
What’s VA pension eligibility?
Answer: 90 days wartime service, low income, age 65+ or disabled.
Advice: Gather income proof—VSO helps.
How do I apply for a VA pension?
Answer: File VA Form 21P-527EZ online or mail.
Advice: Submit DD-214—eBenefits is quickest.
What’s Aid and Attendance benefit?
Answer: Extra pension for vets needing daily help—home or facility.
Advice: Medical proof key—VSO files it.
Can I get VA burial benefits?
Answer: Yes, honorable discharge—covers plot, headstone, honors.
Advice: Pre-plan—call 800-535-1117.
How do I apply for burial benefits?
Answer: Family submits VA Form 21P-530 post-death with DD-214.
Advice: Keep DD-214 handy—file fast.
What’s the Veteran ID Card (VIC)?
Answer: Photo ID for discounts—not healthcare or DoD related.
Advice: Apply online—needs DD-214 upload.
How do I get a VIC?
Answer: Apply via VA.gov—upload DD-214, photo.
Advice: Digital DD-214 speeds it up—4–6 weeks.
What’s VA vocational rehab?
Answer: Job training, employment help for disabled vets.
Advice: Apply early—needs disability rating.
How do I apply for vocational rehab?
Answer: VA Form 28-1900 online or with counselor.
Link: va.gov/careers-employment/vocational-rehabilitation/how-to-apply/
Advice: Meet a counselor—call 800-827-1000.
What’s the VA caregiver program?
Answer: Support, stipend for caregivers of post-9/11 vets.
Advice: Apply if injured—needs medical proof.
How do I get caregiver support?
Answer: Apply online or call 855-260-3274—needs vet’s records.
Advice: Start early—long approval process.
Can I get VA benefits as a Reservist?
Answer: Yes, if activated 90+ days—needs DD-214.
Advice: Check activation dates—VSO confirms.
What’s the VA appeals modernization?
Answer: New system (2019) for faster claim reviews—3 lanes.
Link: va.gov/decision-reviews/
Advice: Pick the right lane—VSO guides.
DD-214 Forms
What’s a DD-214?
Answer: Discharge document—proves service, eligibility for benefits.
Link: va.gov/records/
Advice: Safeguard it—make copies.
How do I get my DD-214?
Answer: Request via eVetRecs (National Archives) with SF-180.
Link: archives.gov/veterans/
Advice: Online’s fastest—4–6 weeks.
What if I lost my DD-214?
Answer: Replace it through National Archives—use SF-180.
Link: archives.gov/veterans/
Advice: Act now—delays hurt claims.
Can I get DD-214 online?
Answer: Yes, via eVetRecs if discharged after 1992.
Link: archives.gov/veterans/
Advice: Use milConnect if recent—faster.
What’s on a DD-214?
Answer: Service dates, discharge type, awards, MOS.
Link: military.com/benefits/
Advice: Check for errors—correct ASAP.
How do I correct DD-214 errors?
Answer: File DD-215 via branch’s review board—needs proof.
Link: va.gov/
Advice: Gather evidence—VSO helps.
What’s a DD-215?
Answer: Form to correct DD-214—updates records.
Link: va.gov/records/
Advice: File fast—impacts benefits.
Who can request my DD-214?
Answer: You, next of kin (with death proof), or authorized third party.
Link: archives.gov/veterans/
Advice: Protect privacy—don’t share casually.
What if my DD-214 was in the 1973 fire?
Answer: NPRC reconstructs from other records—takes longer.
Advice: Start now—provide details.
Can I get a DD-214 if still serving?
Answer: No, only at separation—use Statement of Service instead.
Link: va.gov/records/
Advice: Ask command for SOS.
How do I get a DD-214 for a deceased vet?
Answer: Next of kin uses SF-180—needs death certificate.
Link: archives.gov/veterans/
Advice: File early—burial needs it.
What’s the difference between DD-214 copies?
Answer: Member 4 (full) vs. Member 1 (short)—4’s key for benefits.
Link: military.com/benefits/
Advice: Request Member 4—specify it.
How long does DD-214 take to arrive?
Answer: 4–8 weeks via National Archives—faster online.
Link: archives.gov/veterans/
Advice: Mark “emergency” if urgent.
Can I use DD-214 for state benefits?
Answer: Yes, many states (e.g., GA) accept for licenses, tax breaks.
Link: veterans.georgia.gov/
Advice: Check your state VA site.
What if DD-214 lists wrong discharge type?
Answer: Appeal via Discharge Review Board—needs evidence.
Link: va.gov
Advice: VSO critical—don’t delay.
Do Reservists get a DD-214?
Answer: Yes, if activated 90+ days—otherwise NGB-22.
Link: va.gov/records/
Advice: Confirm activation—VSO checks.
How do I file DD-214 with my county?
Answer: Bring it to county clerk—recording varies by state.
Link: benefits.com/
Advice: Ask about privacy—some skip this.
What’s an SF-180 form?
Answer: Request form for military records, including DD-214.
Link: archives.gov/veterans/
Advice: Fill fully—mail or fax.
Can I expedite DD-214 request?
Answer: Yes, mark “emergency” on eVetRecs—e.g., burial.
Link: archives.gov/veterans/
Advice: Explain urgency—speeds it.
Why does VA need my DD-214?
Answer: Verifies service, discharge—basis for all benefits.
Link: va.gov/records/
Advice: Upload to eBenefits—saves time.
What if DD-214 shows bad conduct?
Answer: Limits benefits—appeal for upgrade if possible.
Link: va.gov/
Advice: Legal help needed—VSO first.
Can I get DD-214 for pre-1950 service?
Answer: Yes, older forms (e.g., WD AGO 53) via NPRC.
Link: archives.gov/veterans/
Advice: Specify era—takes longer.
How do I check DD-214 status?
Answer: Call NPRC (314-801-0800) or check eVetRecs email.
Link: archives.gov/veterans/
Advice: Be patient—long hold times.
What’s milConnect for DD-214?
Answer: DoD portal—recent vets download DD-214 there.
Link: milconnect.dmdc.osd.mil/
Advice: CAC or DS Logon—fastest.
Can DD-214 affect civilian jobs?
Answer: Yes, employers may check discharge type.
Link: military.com/benefits/
Advice: Be honest—explain context.
VA Home Loans
What’s a VA home loan?
Answer: No down payment, low-rate loan for vets—guaranteed by VA.
Advice: Get COE first—key step.
Who’s eligible for VA home loan?
Answer: 90 days active duty, honorable discharge—or 6 years Reserves.
Advice: Check DD-214—VSO confirms.
How do I get a VA Certificate of Eligibility (COE)?
Answer: Apply online (eBenefits) or VA Form 26-1880 by mail.
Advice: DD-214 ready—faster online.
What’s needed for VA loan approval?
Answer: COE, credit (580+), income—lender sets specifics.
Advice: Shop lenders—compare rates.
How long does VA loan take?
Answer: 30–45 days—appraisal can slow it.
Link: veteran.com/va-loan/
Advice: Pre-approve—speeds closing.
What’s VA funding fee?
Answer: 1.4–3.6% of loan—waived if disabled.
Advice: Check disability status—saves $$.
Can I reuse VA loan benefit?
Answer: Yes, if prior loan paid or entitlement restored.
Advice: Ask VA—Form 26-1880.
What homes qualify for VA loan?
Answer: Single-family, condos, manufactured—must meet MPRs.
Advice: Check appraisal—fix issues.
Can I refinance with VA?
Answer: Yes, IRRRL lowers rate—needs existing VA loan.
Advice: Compare rates—save long-term.
What’s IRRRL process?
Answer: Apply with lender—no COE, minimal paperwork.
Advice: Pick trusted lender—fast track.
Can I get cash-out with VA loan?
Answer: Yes, refinance to tap equity—needs appraisal.
Advice: Use wisely—debt risk.
Do I need PMI with VA loan?
Answer: No—VA guaranty replaces it.
Advice: Big perk—saves hundreds.
What’s VA loan credit score minimum?
Answer: No VA minimum—lenders often want 580–620.
Link: veteran.com/va-loan/
Advice: Boost score—pays off.
Can surviving spouses get VA loan?
Answer: Yes, if unmarried, DIC-eligible—needs Vet’s DD-214.
Advice: File VA Form 26-1817.
How do I find VA-approved lenders?
Answer: Search VA.gov or ask local VA office.
Advice: Veterans United’s a solid start.
What’s VA appraisal like?
Answer: Checks safety, value—takes 10–14 days.
Advice: Prep home—fix hazards.
Can I buy a fixer-upper with VA?
Answer: Yes, with VA rehab loan—covers repairs.
Advice: Estimate costs—lender approves.
What’s VA loan limit?
Answer: No limit if full entitlement—county caps otherwise.
Advice: Check entitlement—call 877-827-3702.
Can I use VA loan for investment?
Answer: No, primary residence only—strict rule.
Advice: Plan to live there—1 year min.
How do I restore VA entitlement?
Answer: Pay off prior loan or substitute entitlement—Form 26-1880.
Advice: VA regional office helps.
What’s VA Native American loan?
Answer: Direct loan for Native vets on trust land.
Advice: Check tribal eligibility—rare use.
Can I get VA loan with bad credit?
Answer: Possible—lenders may flex below 580 with compensating factors.
Link: veteran.com/va-loan/
Advice: Fix credit—takes time.
What’s VA foreclosure process?
Answer: Lender notifies VA—help available to avoid it.
Advice: Call VA at 877-827-3702 ASAP.
Can I rent out my VA home?
Answer: Yes, after 1 year occupancy—exceptions possible.
Advice: Get VA waiver—paperwork needed.
How do I dispute VA appraisal?
Answer: Request reconsideration of value via lender—needs evidence.
Advice: Photos, comps—act fast.
Military Transitions
What’s military transition like?
Answer: Shift to civilian life—jobs, benefits, identity challenges.
Link: militaryonesource.mil/
Advice: Start planning 6 months out.
How do I find a job after military?
Answer: Use VA’s Voc Rehab, job boards—translate MOS skills.
Advice: Hire Heroes USA—free help.
What’s Transition Assistance Program (TAP)?
Answer: DoD program—job, benefits training pre-separation.
Link: dodtap.mil/
Advice: Attend early—mandatory for most.
How do I sign up for TAP?
Answer: Contact base transition office—starts 12 months out.
Link: dodtap.mil/
Advice: Schedule now—slots fill.
What’s a Veteran Service Officer (VSO)?
Answer: Free advocate for benefits, claims—VA-trained.
Link: va.gov/vso/
Advice: Find one—saves headaches.
How do I move my family post-service?
Answer: DoD covers one final move—file early.
Link: militaryonesource.mil/
Advice: Call 800-342-9647—plan ahead.
Can I keep Tricare after separation?
Answer: Yes, for 180 days (TAMP)—then VA or civilian.
Link: tricare.mil/
Advice: Enroll VA healthcare—overlap smart.
What’s terminal leave?
Answer: Use accrued leave pre-separation—extends benefits.
Link: military.com/benefits/
Advice: Max it—ask command.
How do I translate military skills?
Answer: Use O*NET My Next Move—match MOS to jobs.
Link: mynextmove.org/vets/
Advice: Build resume—highlight leadership.
What’s unemployment for vets?
Answer: UCX—benefits if jobless post-service, varies by state.
Advice: File with state—needs DD-214.
How do I apply for vet unemployment?
Answer: Contact state workforce agency—submit DD-214.
Link: dol.gov/agencies/eta/
Advice: Start day 1—delays cost.
Can I go to college post-service?
Answer: Yes, GI Bill covers it—36 months funding.
Link: va.gov/education/
Advice: Pick VA-approved school—apply now.
What’s VetSuccess on Campus?
Answer: VA support at colleges—counseling, benefits help.
Advice: Ask school—eases transition.
How do I prove vet status to employers?
Answer: Show DD-214 (Member 4)—discharge key.
Link: military.com/benefits/
Advice: Redact SSN—privacy first.
What’s veteran preference for fed jobs?
Answer: 5–10 point boost in hiring—needs DD-214.
Advice: Apply via USAJobs—highlight it.
How do I apply for federal jobs?
Answer: Use USAJobs.gov—upload DD-214, SF-15 if disabled.
Link: usajobs.gov/
Advice: Tailor resume—vets get edge.
What’s VEOA hiring authority?
Answer: Vets compete for merit jobs—needs DD-214.
Advice: Check eligibility—apply often.
Can I reenlist after separation?
Answer: Yes, if fit, prior service okay—needs DD-214.
Link: military.com
Advice: Talk recruiter—age limits apply.
What’s military retirement pay?
Answer: Pension after 20+ years—based on rank, time.
Link: militarypay.defense.gov/
Advice: Check DFAS—file early.
How do I get retirement pay?
Answer: Apply via branch—DD-214, service records.
Link: militarypay.defense.gov/
Advice: Start 6 months out—DFAS slow.
What’s SBP for survivors?
Answer: Survivor Benefit Plan—pension for family post-death.
Link: militarypay.defense.gov/
Advice: Elect at retirement—costly but vital.
How do I adjust to civilian life?
Answer: Seek vet groups, counseling—takes time.
Link: militaryonesource.mil/
Advice: Call 800-342-9647—support’s free.
What’s VET TEC program?
Answer: VA tech training—short courses, no GI Bill use.
Link: va.gov/education/
Advice: Apply if tech-bound—fast track.
Can I get mental health help post-service?
Answer: Yes, VA offers free counseling—call 988 if crisis.
Link: va.gov/health-care/
Advice: Don’t wait—reach out now.
What’s a vet center?
Answer: VA hubs for counseling, transition—no enrollment needed.
Link: vetcenter.va.gov/
Advice: Find nearest—walk in anytime.