How to Get Honorable Discharge Papers

An honorable discharge is one of several classifications given to a veteran who has served in the armed forces for at least 90 consecutive days. Called a DD Form 214, these papers contain all the information a former soldier will need to apply for medical and retirement benefits and provide verification for potential employers. If the papers are lost, getting them replaced is free and relatively easy.

Instructions

1. Gather all personal information pertaining to your time in service, such as the date you left the military and your social security number.

2. Visit Archives.gov, and click "eVetRecs." Read all the information, and determine whether you need to mail your request or you can proceed online. Click "Request Military Records" to continue online.

3. Follow the four steps required to complete the request: Step 1 will ask for your relationship to the veteran (self or next of kin); Step 2 will require the veteran's rank, branch of service and the reason for request; Step 3 will require personal information, such as name, social security number and address to mail the papers; and Step 4 will instruct you to print out a signature verification form to mail to the address provided. Sign your full name, and date the signature.

4. Fax or mail the signature verification form where instructed within 20 days of entering your request; otherwise, the request will be purged from the system and you will need to reapply.

Tips & Warnings

• You can also order your medical and other personnel records through the eVetsRec system. If you need a form mailed to you, call the National Archives and Records Administration at [phone].

References

• U.S. National Archives and Records Administration: eVetRecs: Request Copies of Military Personnel Records

Resources

• Army Career and Alumni Program: DD Form 214