For Veterans
Getting Your Military Records
Almost every benefit starts with your records. Get copies now.
What to request
- DD-214, your Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty.
- Your Official Military Personnel File (OMPF), which includes evaluations, awards, and assignments.
- Your service treatment records, for VA claims.
How to request
According to the National Archives:
- Online: through eVetRecs, which requires identity verification through ID.me.
- By mail or fax: using Standard Form 180 (SF-180).
- Who may request: the veteran, or next of kin of a deceased veteran.
- Cost: free for veterans and next of kin when the discharge was less than 62 years ago.
Tips
- Request records well before you need them; processing takes time.
- Check your DD-214 for the Iraq Campaign Medal, campaign stars, and combat badges. See Iraq Campaign Medal.
- Keep certified copies in a safe place, and a scanned copy in secure storage.
- If something is wrong, request a correction through your service's records board.