Printable Dd 214 Form

The DD Form 214 is a crucial document for military service members. It serves as a record of a service member's release or discharge from active duty. Here are key takeaways regarding its completion and use:

• Accuracy is Essential: Ensure that all information on the DD 214 is accurate. Errors can lead to complications in accessing benefits and services.
• Do Not Alter the Form: Any alterations in the shaded areas of the form will render it void. Maintain the integrity of the document.
• Privacy Considerations: The DD 214 contains sensitive information. Safeguard it to protect your privacy and prevent identity theft.
• Utilize for Benefits: The DD 214 is often required to access veterans' benefits, including healthcare, education, and employment assistance. Keep copies readily available.

Dd 214 - Usage Instruction

Filling out the DD Form 214 is a crucial step for service members transitioning from active duty. This form serves as an official record of your military service and is often required for various benefits and services. Take your time to ensure that all information is accurate and complete.

1. Begin by entering your name in the designated area. Make sure to include your first, middle, and last names correctly.
2. In the next section, provide the department, component, and branch of the military you served in.
3. Fill in your social security number. Double-check this number for accuracy.
4. Enter your grade, rate, or rank at the time of separation in the appropriate box.
5. Next, indicate your pay grade in the designated field.
6. Provide your date of birth in the format YYYYMMDD.
7. Fill in your reserve obligation termination date if applicable.
8. State your place of entry into active duty.
9. In the next section, document your last duty assignment and major command.
10. Indicate the command to which you were transferred after your service.
11. Provide your home of record at the time of entry.
12. Fill in your military specialty.
13. List any decorations, medals, badges, citations, and campaign ribbons awarded or authorized during your service.
14. State the station where you were separated.
15. Indicate your SGLI coverage status, including the amount if applicable.
16. Complete the record of service section, including dates of entry and separation, net active service, and total prior active service.
17. Provide information on your foreign service, sea service, and initial entry training.
18. Indicate the effective date of your pay grade.
19. Document your military education and any relevant details.
20. Indicate whether you were commissioned through a service academy or ROTC scholarship.
21. State if you were enlisted under a loan repayment program.
22. Fill in the number of days accrued leave.
23. Indicate whether you received a complete dental examination and all appropriate dental services within 90 days prior to separation.
24. Provide your mailing address after separation.
25. Indicate if you request copies of the form to be sent to the nearest office of Veterans Affairs.
26. Sign the form and include the date of your signature.
27. Have the official authorized to sign the form do so, including their date.
28. Complete the sections for type of separation, separation authority, and narrative reason for separation.
29. Document any dates of time lost during this period.
30. Finally, indicate your character of service, separation code, and reentry code.