How to Request or Correct Your Military Records (DD-214, DD-149, DD-293)

The short version

You can get your DD214 and other service records free from the National Archives, online through the eVetRecs tool or by mailing Standard Form 180 (SF-180). If your record has a mistake, you can ask a military board to fix it. A DD Form 149 goes to your service's Board for Correction of Military Records. A DD Form 293 asks a Discharge Review Board to review the characterization or reason for your discharge. Start with the VA's free step-by-step tool to find the right form and board.

Source: National Archives

How do I request my DD-214 and records?

Two main ways, both free. Request online with the National Archives eVetRecs tool, which uses an identity-verified ID.me account, or fill out Standard Form 180 and mail or fax it to the National Personnel Records Center. If you separated recently, or you are still working through your separation money checklist, you may also pull records through the Defense Department's milConnect site (branch and discharge-date cutoffs apply). And if you file a VA benefits claim, the VA requests your DD214 for you.

Source: VA.gov

What is Standard Form 180 (SF-180)?

It is the long-standing paper request for military records. Use SF-180 to ask the National Personnel Records Center for a replacement DD214, personnel records, or medical records, which helps for older records or third-party requests. It generally takes longer than the online tool, but the result is the same document.

Source: National Archives

How do I fix an error or ask for a discharge upgrade?

Use the right form for the right board. A DD Form 149 goes to a Board for Correction of Military Records (for the Navy and Marine Corps, the Board for Correction of Naval Records) to correct an error or injustice in your record. A DD Form 293 goes to a Discharge Review Board to review the character or reason of your discharge. Time limits generally apply, and a Discharge Review Board generally cannot change a discharge that came from a general court-martial. The VA's online tool asks a few questions, then points you to the correct form, the right board, and the mailing address.

Source: VA.gov

What is the difference between a correction and a discharge upgrade?

A correction fixes what the record says, such as wrong dates, a missing award, or a clerical error, handled through a DD Form 149. A discharge upgrade or review asks a board to change how your service is characterized or why you were separated, handled through a DD Form 293, and a better characterization can restore access to benefits like a VA disability claim. Some cases can go to either board, which is why the VA tool matches your situation to the right path.

Source: National Archives

Does it cost anything to get my DD214?

For most veterans and next of kin, copies are free from the National Archives.

How long does a records request take?

It varies. The online eVetRecs tool is generally faster than a mailed SF-180.

Can my family request my records?

Next of kin can request the records of a veteran who has died, with proof. Records also open to the public 62 years after discharge.

Which form corrects a typo on my DD-214?

Generally a DD Form 149 to the Board for Correction of Military Records.

Which form asks to upgrade an other-than-honorable discharge?

Generally a DD Form 293 to a Discharge Review Board, unless your case falls outside its authority or time window, which can route you to the correction board.

Do I need a lawyer?

No, but free help exists. An accredited VSO can help you prepare a strong package.

Is there a deadline?

Deadlines generally apply and vary by board. Confirm the current window before you file.

Where to get help

• National Archives (National Personnel Records Center), for records and SF-180.
• The VA discharge upgrade tool, for personalized instructions.
• An accredited Veterans Service Organization (VSO), for free application help.
• Military OneSource, for general transition support.

Verification Notes

• Filing deadlines for the Discharge Review Board and the Boards for Correction of Military or Naval Records change and can sometimes be waived. Reconfirm the current time limits on the applicable board's page before filing.
• milConnect access depends on your branch and discharge date. Confirm your eligibility on the DoD site.

Sources & links

• National Archives: Request Military Service Records
• National Archives: Standard Form 180 (SF-180)
• National Archives: Correcting Service Records
• VA.gov: Request your military service records (including DD214)
• VA.gov: How to apply for a discharge upgrade or correction

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