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How to get your DD214

The DD214 is your Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty. You need it for most veteran benefits.

What you may need

  • Your full name used while in service
  • Your branch and dates of service
  • Your Social Security number or service number (give this only on the official form, never online in public)

Steps

  1. Step 1: Check if you already have a copy

    Look in your home files, ask family, or check with your county veterans office. Some county recorders keep copies.

  2. Step 2: Request it online from the National Archives

    Use the National Archives online request system, called eVetRecs. It is run by the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC).

    Start a request at the National Archives(opens in a new tab)
  3. Step 3: Or send a paper form

    You can mail or fax Standard Form 180 (SF-180) to the National Personnel Records Center.

If you need it fast

For a burial or another emergency, call the National Personnel Records Center at 314-801-0800 and explain. They handle urgent requests, such as for a funeral.

If you are family of a veteran who has died

Next of kin, such as a spouse, parent, or child, can also request the records the same way.

For veterans and next of kin, a DD214 is generally free. Be careful of websites that charge a fee.

Questions? Call the official line

National Personnel Records Center: 314-801-0800

Official sources

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