Requesting dd214 via mail

A DD Form 214, also known as a Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, is an official document that verifies a person's military service and is often required for various purposes, such as applying for government benefits, employment, or education.

To request a DD Form 214 via mail, you can follow these steps:

  1. Gather required information: Before requesting your DD Form 214, make sure you have the following information ready:
    • Your full name (as it appears on your military records)
    • Your Social Security number (SSN)
    • Your date of birth
    • Your branch of service (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard)
    • Your dates of service
  2. Contact the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA): NARA is responsible for maintaining military personnel records, including DD Form 214s. You can contact NARA by:
    • Phone: (866) 272-6272 (toll-free) or (314) 801-0800 (local)
    • Email: [email protected]
    • Mail: National Personnel Records Center, 1 Archives Drive, St. Louis, MO 63138-1002
  3. Submit your request: You can submit your request by mail or online. To request your DD Form 214 by mail, send a letter to NARA with the following information:
    • Your full name (as it appears on your military records)
    • Your SSN
    • Your date of birth
    • Your branch of service
    • Your dates of service
    • A clear statement requesting a copy of your DD Form 214
    • Your signature and date
  4. Pay the fee (if applicable): NARA charges a fee for processing requests, which is currently $75. You can pay by check or money order made payable to the National Archives and Records Administration.
  5. Wait for your DD Form 214: NARA will process your request and mail your DD Form 214 to you. This may take several weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of your request and the workload of NARA.

Online Request: You can also request your DD Form 214 online through the National Archives' website. To do so, follow these steps:

  1. Go to the National Archives' website at www.archives.gov.
  2. Click on "Request Military Service Records" and then "Order Online."
  3. Fill out the online request form with your personal information and the required details.
  4. Pay the fee using a credit or debit card.
  5. Submit your request and wait for your DD Form 214 to be mailed to you.

Remember to keep your DD Form 214 in a safe and secure location, as it is an important document that can be used to verify your military service.