Article Guide
The DD 149 form plays a crucial role for veterans seeking to appeal decisions made by the Department of Veterans Affairs or to request changes to their military records. This form serves as a formal application for correction of military records, allowing service members to address inaccuracies that may affect their benefits or reputation. It is essential for veterans to understand the purpose and process associated with the DD 149, as it provides a pathway to rectify mistakes related to discharge status, personal information, or other significant details. Completing the form accurately is vital, as it ensures that the request is processed efficiently and effectively. The form requires specific information, including the veteran's service details and the nature of the correction sought. By submitting the DD 149, veterans can take an important step toward securing the benefits and recognition they deserve, making it a key document in the journey of many who have served in the military.
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APPLICATION FOR CORRECTION OF MILITARY RECORD
UNDER THE PROVISIONS OF TITLE 10, U.S. CODE, SECTION 1552
(Please read Privacy Act Statement and instructions on back BEFORE completing this application.)
Do Not Write Below
OMB No.
12/31/2025
CASE NUMBER
SECTION 1: SERVICE MEMBER (The person whose discharge is to be reviewed.) PLEASE PRINT OR TYPE INFORMATION
1. BRANCH AT TIME OF ERROR OR INJUSTICE |
ARMY |
NAVY |
AIR FORCE |
COAST GUARD |
MARINE CORPS |
SPACE FORCE |
2. COMPONENT AT TIME OF ERROR OR INJUSTICE
REGULAR
RESERVE
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3. NAME WHILE |
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4. CURRENT |
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NAME (If different) |
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5a. SSN WHILE SERVING |
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CURRENT SSN (If different) |
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5b. (provide, if applicable) |
DoD ID NUMBER |
SERVICE NUMBER |
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6. CURRENTLY SERVING |
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7. DATE OF SEPARATION |
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8. GRADE/RANK AT DISCHARGE |
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9.MAILING ADDRESS (If Service Member is deceased, skip this question.)
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CITY, STATE/APO, COUNTRY/FOREIGN ADDRESS |
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SECTION 2: SEPARATION INFORMATION (if not currently serving)
10.CHARACTER OF SERVICE (If by
HONORABLE |
UNDER HONORABLE |
UNDER OTHER THAN |
BAD CONDUCT DISCHARGE |
DISHONORABLE |
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CONDITIONS (GENERAL) |
HONORABLE CONDITIONS |
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UNCHARACTERIZED/ENTRY LEVEL |
DISMISSAL |
OTHER |
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SECTION 3: ERROR OR INJUSTICE
11a. IS THIS A REQUEST FOR RECONSIDERATION OF A PRIOR APPLICATION TO THE BOARD?
YES
NO
11b. IF YES AND KNOWN, PROVIDE CASE NUMBER |
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AND DECISION DATE |
12.CATEGORY (Select all that apply. Example: Administrative Correction - change in name, DOB, SSN.)
ADMINISTRATIVE CORRECTION |
PAY & ALLOWANCE |
DECORATIONS/AWARDS |
PERFORMANCE/ EVALUATIONS/ |
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DEROGATORY INFORMATION |
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DISABILITY |
PROMOTIONS/ RANK |
DISCHARGE/ SEPARATION |
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13.WHAT CORRECTION AND RELIEF ARE YOU REQUESTING FOR THIS ERROR OR INJUSTICE IN THE SERVICE MEMBER'S RECORD? (required) (Limited to 455 characters)
14.ARE ANY OF THE FOLLOWING ISSUES/CONDITIONS RELATED TO YOUR REQUEST: (Select all that apply.)
PTSD |
TBI |
OTHER MENTAL |
SEXUAL ASSAULT/ |
DADT |
REPRISAL/ |
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HEALTH |
HARASSMENT |
WHISTLEBLOWER |
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15.WHY SHOULD THIS CORRECTION BE MADE? (Required) (Limited to 545 characters)
16.APPROXIMATE DATES THE ERROR OR INJUSTICE WAS DISCOVERED:
IF THE DATE OF DISCOVERY IS MORE THAN 3 YEARS AGO, EXPLAIN YOUR DELAY AND WHY THE BOARD SHOULD CONSIDER YOUR REQUEST. REFER TO BLOCK 18.
DD FORM 149, FEB 2025 |
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Controlled by: |
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17. DO YOU WISH TO APPEAR AT YOUR OWN |
YES. (IN PERSON) |
YES. (VIA VIDEO / |
NO. CONSIDER MY APPLICATION BASED |
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EXPENSE BEFORE THE BOARD IN WASHINGTON, D.C.? |
TELEPHONE) |
ON RECORDS & EVIDENCE. |
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18.ADDITIONAL REMARKS/CONTINUATION OF INFORMATION (If more space is needed, please submit additional narrative as required.) (Limited to 360 characters)
SECTION 4: EVIDENCE, RECORDS, AND ADDITIONAL REMARKS
19.IN SUPPORT OF THIS CLAIM, THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTARY EVIDENCE IS ATTACHED (LIST DOCUMENTS): Example evidence / records: Separation packet, medical documents (e.g. diagnosis, VA rating),
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LIST ADDITIONAL SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS (if needed)
IMPORTANT NOTE: If the basis of your request involves the effects of one or more physical, medical, mental, and/or behavioral health condition(s) and if available, please attach copies of any VA rating decisions, relevant medical records, and counseling treatment records.
SECTION 5: CLAIMANT (if other than the Service Member)
20. RELATION TO SERVICE MEMBER
Claimants are normally Service Members seeking to correct their own records. The Service Member or former Service Member is not able to sign the
application because they are |
DECEASED |
INCAPACITATED, OR |
OTHER |
Please designate appropriate signatory below:
a. I am the heir of the Service Member: WIDOW(ER) SON DAUGHTER PARENT SIBLING
OTHER
Please provide Service Member's death certificate and marriage license or heir's birth certificate, as appropriate to prove relationship.
b. I am the CONSERVATOR
GUARDIAN
Please provide a notarized power of attorney or court appointment of conservatorship or guardianship to prove status.
c. I am the |
SPOUSE |
FORMER SPOUSE
DEPENDENT OF THE SERVICE MEMBER
Please provide marriage license, divorce decree, or dependent birth certificate, as appropriate.
21. NAME
LAST
FIRST
22. MAILING ADDRESS
STREET
CITY, STATE/APO, COUNTRY/FOREIGN ADDRESS |
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SECTION 6: REPRESENTATIVE OR COUNSEL (if applicable) |
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The following representative is authorized to receive and provide communication regarding this application. |
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24. ORGANIZATION |
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SECTION 7: SIGNATURE
26. I WOULD LIKE TO RECEIVE ALL CORRESPONDENCE & DOCUMENTS ELECTRONICALLY. (This may reduce overall processing time.) YES NO
CERTIFICATION: I MAKE THE FOREGOING STATEMENTS, AS PART OF THIS CLAIM, WITH FULL KNOWLEDGE OF THE PENALTIES INVOLVED FOR WILLFULLY MAKING A FALSE STATEMENT OR CLAIM. (U.S. Code, Title 18, Section 287 and 1001, provide that an individual shall be fined under this title or
imprisoned not more than 5 years, or both.)
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27a. SIGNATURE (Required) |
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27b. DATE SIGNED |
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28. IS THIS REQUEST RELATED TO |
Operation Freedom Sentinel (OFS) (01/01/2015 - Present) |
Persian Gulf War (08/02/1990 - 11/30/1995) |
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Operation Inherent Resolve (OIR) (08/08/2014 - Present) |
Vietnam War (01/01/1961 - 04/30/1975) |
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ANY OF THESE WARS OR |
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CONTINGENCY OPERATIONS? |
Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) (09/11/2001 |
Korean War (06/27/1950 - 07/27/1954) |
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Operation New Dawn (OND) (09/01/2010 - 12/15/2011) |
World War II (12/07/1941 - 09/02/1945) |
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NO |
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Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) (03/19/2003 - 08/31/2010) |
OTHER |
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DD FORM 149, FEB 2025 |
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PREVIOUS EDITION IS OBSOLETE.
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INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETION OF DD FORM 149 |
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Under Title 10 United States Code Section 1552, current and former members of the Armed Forces, their lawful or legal representatives, spouses and ex- spouses of former members seeking Survivor Benefit Program (SBP) benefits, and civilian employees seeking correction of military records other than those related to civilian employment, who feel that they have suffered an injustice as a result of error or injustice in military records may apply to their respective Boards for Correction of Military (or Naval) Records (BCMR/BCNR) for a correction of their military records. These Boards are the highest level appellate review authority in the military. Therefore, applicants must exhaust all other administrative correction and appeal procedures before applying to the Boards.
This form collects the basic data that the Boards need to process and act on the request. Type or print all entries for all applicable items. If the item is not applicable, enter "NA." If the space provided is insufficient, attach an extra page.
SECTION 3, ITEM 12. State the specific correction of record and all relief desired. If possible, identify exactly what document or information in your record you believe to be erroneous or unjust and indicate what correction you want made to it. For additional errors or injustices, use Section 8.
ITEM 14. To justify correction of a military record, you must explain and show to the satisfaction of the Board that the alleged entry or omission in the record is in error or unjust.
ITEM 15. U.S. Code, Title 10, Section 1552(b), states that no correction may be made unless the request is made within three years after the discovery of the error or injustice, but the Board may excuse failure to file within three years in the interest of justice.
ITEM 16. Indicate whether you attribute the error or injustice to your involvement in a particular war or contingency operation.
ITEM 17. A hearing is not required to ensure the Board's full and impartial consideration of your application. If the Board decides that a hearing is warranted, you, your witnesses, and your counsel may attend at no expense to the government, except that counsel may be provided if the Inspector General has reported reprisal against you.
SECTION 4. You are responsible for obtaining and submitting clear, legible evidence to persuade the Board to grant your request, including any evidence that is not already in your military record. Do not assume a document is in your record. Your evidence should be submitted with this form and may include, for example, military records and orders, witnesses' sworn affidavits, and a brief of arguments supporting your request. List your evidence in item 19 and, if your case involves a medical condition, submit relevant medical records and VA rating decisions as noted in item 20. Do not send irreplaceable original documents because they will not be returned.
SECTION 5. The person whose record will be corrected if relief is granted must sign this form in Section 7. If that person is deceased or incompetent to sign, a lawful claimant, such as a spouse, widow(er), next of kin (child, parent, or sibling), or legal representative, may sign the form. Proof of death, incompetency, or power of attorney must be submitted. Former spouses may apply as claimants for SBP issues .
SECTION 6. You may want counsel if your case is complex. Some veterans and service organizations furnish counsel without charge. Contact your local post or chapter.
For detailed information on Application and Board Procedures, see: Army Regulation
MAIL COMPLETED APPLICATIONS TO APPROPRIATE ADDRESS BELOW
ARMY
Army Review Boards Agency 251 18th Street South, Suite 385 Arlington, VA
NAVY AND MARINE CORPS
Board for Correction of Naval Records 701 S. Courthouse Rd, Suite 1001 Arlington, VA
AIR FORCE
Air Force Board for Correction of Military Records 3351 Celmers Lane Joint Base Andrews, MD
COAST GUARD
DHS Office of the General Counsel Board for Correction of Military Records, Stop 0485
2707 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. S.E. Washington, DC
The public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 1 hour per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. Send comments regarding the burden estimate or burden reduction suggestions to the Department of Defense, Washington Headquarters Services, at
RETURN COMPLETED FORM TO THE APPROPRIATE ADDRESS ON PAGE 3.
PRIVACY ACT STATEMENT
AUTHORITY: 10 U.S.C. 1552, Correction of military records: claims incident thereto; and E.O. 9397 (SSN), as amended.
PRINCIPAL PURPOSE(S): To initiate an application for correction of military record. The form is used by Board members for review of pertinent information in making a determination of relief through correction of a military record. Completed forms are covered by correction of military records SORNs maintained by each of the Services or the Defense Finance and Accounting Service.
ROUTINE USE(S): The DoD Routine Uses can be found in the applicable system of records notices below: Army
DISCLOSURE: Voluntary. However, failure by a claimant to provide the information not annotated as "optional" may result in a denial of your application. A claimant's SSN is used to retrieve these records and links to the member's official military personnel file and pay record.
DD FORM 149, FEB 2025 |
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PREVIOUS EDITION IS OBSOLETE.
Form Specifications
| Fact Name | Details |
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| Purpose | The DD Form 149 is used to apply for a correction of military records. |
| Eligibility | Any former service member or their authorized representative can submit this form. |
| Submission Process | Applicants must send the completed form to the appropriate board for correction of military records. |
| Supporting Documents | Additional documentation may be required to support the request for correction. |
| Time Frame | Processing times can vary, but applicants should expect several months for a decision. |
| Governing Law | The form is governed by Title 10, U.S. Code, Section 1552. |
| Appeal Rights | If denied, applicants have the right to appeal the decision through the appropriate channels. |
| Privacy Act | Information provided on the form is protected under the Privacy Act of 1974. |
| Contact Information | For questions, applicants can contact the board directly or visit their official website. |
DD 149: Usage Guidelines
Filling out the DD 149 form is a straightforward process that requires careful attention to detail. Once completed, this form will be submitted to the appropriate authority for processing. Follow these steps to ensure you fill it out correctly.
- Obtain a copy of the DD 149 form. You can find it online or request it from a military office.
- Begin by entering your personal information in the designated fields. This includes your full name, address, and contact information.
- Provide your service details, such as your branch of service, service number, and dates of service.
- Clearly state the reason for your request. Be specific about what you are seeking and include any relevant details.
- Sign and date the form at the bottom. Ensure that your signature is clear and matches the name you provided.
- Review the entire form for accuracy. Check that all fields are completed and that there are no errors.
- Make a copy of the completed form for your records before submitting it.
- Submit the form to the appropriate address provided in the instructions. Ensure you follow any specific submission guidelines, such as including additional documents if required.
Your Questions, Answered
What is the DD Form 149?
The DD Form 149, also known as the Application for Correction of Military Records, is a form used by military service members and veterans to request changes to their military records. This could include corrections to discharge statuses, awards, or personal information. It is an essential tool for those seeking to ensure their military records accurately reflect their service and achievements.
Who can use the DD Form 149?
Any former or current member of the U.S. Armed Forces can use the DD Form 149. This includes active duty, reserve, and National Guard members. Additionally, family members or legal representatives may submit the form on behalf of a service member or veteran, provided they have the necessary authorization.
What types of corrections can be requested using the DD Form 149?
Individuals can request various corrections, such as changes to discharge characterization, corrections of errors in personal information (like name or Social Security number), and the addition of missing awards or decorations. Essentially, the form is designed to address any inaccuracies or omissions in military records.
How do I complete the DD Form 149?
To complete the DD Form 149, you will need to provide personal information, including your service details and the specific changes you are requesting. It is crucial to include any supporting documentation that can substantiate your request. This may include copies of discharge papers, orders, or any other relevant records that help clarify your situation.
Where do I submit the DD Form 149?
Once you have completed the DD Form 149, it should be submitted to the appropriate board for correction of military records. This is typically the Board for Correction of Military Records for your branch of service. Check their specific submission guidelines, as they may vary by branch.
How long does it take to process a DD Form 149?
The processing time for a DD Form 149 can vary widely depending on the complexity of the request and the workload of the board. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few months to over a year. It is advisable to follow up periodically to check on the status of your application.
Is there a fee associated with submitting the DD Form 149?
There is no fee for submitting the DD Form 149. The process is designed to be accessible for service members and veterans seeking to correct their records. This ensures that financial barriers do not prevent individuals from addressing inaccuracies in their military documentation.
What should I do if my request is denied?
If your request is denied, you will receive a written explanation detailing the reasons for the denial. You can appeal the decision by submitting a new application with additional evidence or clarification. It’s important to carefully review the denial letter and address any concerns raised by the board in your appeal.
Common mistakes
When filling out the DD 149 form, which is used to apply for a correction of military records, it's important to be thorough and accurate. Mistakes can lead to delays or even denials of your request. Here’s a list of common errors people make:
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Omitting Required Information:
One of the most frequent mistakes is leaving out essential details, such as your service number or the dates of service. Every piece of information matters.
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Incorrect Contact Information:
Providing outdated or incorrect contact information can hinder communication. Always double-check your phone number and address.
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Not Signing the Form:
A signature is crucial. Some individuals forget to sign or date the form, which can lead to automatic rejection.
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Failing to Provide Supporting Documents:
Many people neglect to include necessary documentation that supports their request. This could include discharge papers or medical records.
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Using Inappropriate Language:
It’s important to maintain a respectful tone. Using aggressive or inappropriate language can reflect poorly on your application.
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Submitting the Form to the Wrong Address:
Ensure you send the DD 149 to the correct office. Sending it to the wrong location can cause significant delays.
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Not Keeping a Copy:
Some individuals fail to keep a copy of the submitted form for their records. This can be problematic if you need to follow up later.
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Ignoring Deadlines:
Be aware of any deadlines associated with your application. Missing these can result in your request being denied.
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Providing Inconsistent Information:
Inconsistencies between the DD 149 and other documents can raise red flags. Ensure all information matches across your records.
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Not Seeking Help When Needed:
Some people hesitate to ask for assistance. If you’re unsure about how to fill out the form, seeking guidance can prevent mistakes.
By avoiding these common pitfalls, you can improve your chances of a successful application. Attention to detail is key when navigating the process of correcting military records.
Documents used along the form
The DD 149 form is essential for veterans seeking to correct their military records. However, there are several other forms and documents that are often used in conjunction with it. Each of these documents plays a significant role in the process of ensuring that veterans receive the benefits and recognition they deserve.
- DD Form 214: This document serves as a certificate of release or discharge from active duty. It provides essential details about a service member's time in the military, including dates of service, type of discharge, and any awards received. It is often required when submitting the DD 149.
- VA Form 21-526EZ: This is an application for disability compensation and related compensation benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs. Veterans may need to submit this form to establish eligibility for benefits that may be impacted by corrections to their records.
- Standard Form 180 (SF-180): This form is used to request military records from the National Archives. Veterans may need to obtain additional documentation or records to support their case when filing the DD 149.
- Letter of Support: A personal letter or statement from a fellow service member, family member, or friend can be valuable. This letter may provide context or additional information that supports the request for correction in the DD 149.
Understanding these documents and their purposes can streamline the process for veterans seeking to correct their military records. Properly preparing and submitting all necessary forms can make a significant difference in achieving a favorable outcome.
Similar forms
The DD 149 form is an application for correction of military records. It serves a specific purpose but shares similarities with several other documents used in military and legal contexts. Below is a list of seven documents that are similar to the DD 149 form, along with a brief explanation of how they relate to it.
- DD Form 214: This form provides a summary of a service member's military service. Like the DD 149, it is crucial for veterans seeking benefits or corrections related to their service records.
- DD Form 215: This document is used to correct errors on the DD Form 214. Both forms aim to ensure that a service member's record accurately reflects their service.
- SF 180: The Standard Form 180 is used to request military records. Similar to the DD 149, it is often a step in the process of correcting or obtaining important military documentation.
- VA Form 21-526EZ: This form is used to apply for disability compensation from the Department of Veterans Affairs. Like the DD 149, it is part of the process for veterans seeking to correct or claim benefits based on their military service.
- DD Form 149: This form is specifically for requesting a change in military records. It directly relates to the DD 149 as it serves the same purpose but may vary in format or specific use cases.
- VA Form 21-4138: This statement in support of a claim can be used to provide additional information for corrections or claims. It complements the DD 149 by supplying necessary context or evidence.
- DD Form 1300: This form is used to report the death of a service member. In cases where a record correction is needed posthumously, it may be related to the DD 149 in terms of updating records for family members.
Dos and Don'ts
When filling out the DD 149 form, it’s important to follow certain guidelines to ensure your application is processed smoothly. Here are five things you should and shouldn't do:
- Do read the instructions carefully before starting.
- Do provide accurate and complete information.
- Do sign and date the form where required.
- Don't leave any sections blank unless instructed.
- Don't submit the form without reviewing it for errors.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your DD 149 form is filled out correctly and submitted successfully.
Misconceptions
The DD 149 form is an important document for veterans seeking to appeal decisions made by the military regarding their discharge status. However, there are several misconceptions surrounding this form that can lead to confusion. Below are five common misunderstandings:
- The DD 149 is only for dishonorable discharges. Many believe that this form is solely for those who received a dishonorable discharge. In reality, it can be used by any veteran seeking to change their discharge status, regardless of the type.
- Filing a DD 149 guarantees a change in discharge status. Some individuals think that simply submitting the DD 149 will automatically result in a favorable decision. However, the outcome depends on the merits of each case and supporting evidence provided.
- The form must be filed within a specific time frame. There is a misconception that the DD 149 has a strict deadline. While it is advisable to file as soon as possible, there is no formal deadline for submission, though timeliness can affect the review process.
- Only legal representation is needed to file the form. Many assume that only attorneys can assist with the DD 149 process. In fact, veterans can fill out and submit the form themselves or seek help from veterans' organizations.
- The DD 149 is the only form required for discharge upgrades. Some individuals think that the DD 149 is the sole document needed for a discharge upgrade. However, additional documentation may be necessary, depending on the specifics of the case.
Understanding these misconceptions can empower veterans to navigate the appeal process more effectively. Clarity about the purpose and requirements of the DD 149 can lead to better outcomes for those seeking to amend their military records.
Key takeaways
The DD 149 form is an important document for veterans seeking to apply for a correction of military records. Here are some key takeaways to consider when filling out and using this form:
- Understand the purpose of the DD 149: It is primarily used to request a change or correction to your military records.
- Gather necessary information: Before filling out the form, collect your service records, discharge papers, and any other relevant documents.
- Complete all sections: Ensure that every section of the form is filled out completely. Incomplete forms may delay processing.
- Be clear and concise: Provide clear explanations for the changes you are requesting. Avoid unnecessary details that might confuse the reviewer.
- Attach supporting documents: Include any evidence that supports your request, such as medical records or witness statements.
- Check for accuracy: Review the completed form for any errors before submission. Mistakes can lead to complications or rejections.
- Know the submission process: Familiarize yourself with where to send the form and any deadlines that may apply.
- Follow up: After submitting the form, keep track of your request and follow up if you do not receive a response within a reasonable time frame.