Need a Replacement Copy of Your DD214?
Your DD214 documents your military separation and may be needed when applying for VA benefits, a VA home loan, employment, burial benefits, or certain state and local veteran programs.
Three Ways to Request Your Military Records
1. Submit an Online Request
Most veterans and eligible next of kin can begin a request through the National Archives eVetRecs system. Identity verification through ID.me may be required when submitting a request or retrieving an electronic response.
2. Mail Standard Form 180
You may download and complete Standard Form 180. Follow the records location table on the form because the correct mailing address can depend on the service branch, separation date, and type of record.
3. Fax Standard Form 180
Down load and print the Standard Form 180 and then the completed SF-180 may be faxed to the National Personnel Records Center. The request must be signed and dated.
NPRC fax: 314-801-9195
Review the SF-180 instructions first to confirm the correct records location for your service branch and separation date.
Recently Separated?
Recently separated service members may also be able to access military records through their service branch or an appropriate government portal. However, availability varies according to the branch and separation date.
Information You Should Have Ready
Providing complete information helps the National Personnel Records Center locate the correct military record. Therefore, gather the following details before beginning:
- The veteran’s complete name used during military service
- Branch of service
- Service number, if applicable
- Social Security number, if applicable
- Dates of military service
- Date and place of birth
- The specific document requested, such as the DD214
- The purpose of the request
How to Request Your DD214 Online
- Visit the official National Archives eVetRecs request website.
- Select the option to request military service or separation records.
- Enter the veteran’s service information as accurately as possible.
- Identify the DD214 or separation document as the record needed.
- Complete any required identity verification and submit the request.
- Save the request number so you can check its status later.
Who Can Request a DD214?
A veteran may request their own military service records. An eligible next of kin may also request records for a deceased veteran. According to the National Archives, qualifying next of kin can include an unremarried surviving spouse, parent, child, brother, or sister.
Is There a Fee?
The National Archives generally provides basic non-archival military personnel records without charge to veterans, eligible next of kin, and authorized representatives. However, fees may apply to archival records or unusually extensive requests.
How Long Will the Request Take?
Processing time depends on the complexity of the request, record availability, and current workload. In addition, records affected by the 1973 National Personnel Records Center fire may require additional research. The National Archives recommends waiting at least 90 days before submitting a follow-up request.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a DD214 required for a VA home loan?
A lender may request a DD214 when helping a veteran document service history and obtain a VA Certificate of Eligibility. Nevertheless, the exact documents required depend on the borrower’s military status and the information already available to the VA.
Can I request my DD214 by email?
No. The National Archives does not accept military personnel-record requests by ordinary email. Use the official online system or submit a signed and dated written request.
What if I need the record for an emergency?
The National Archives provides special instructions for urgent situations involving matters such as medical treatment or a funeral. Identify the emergency when completing the online request or SF-180.
What if the veteran is deceased?
Eligible next of kin may submit the request. They must include proof of death, such as a death certificate, funeral-home letter, or published obituary.