The DD 149 form is a crucial document used by veterans and service members to apply for a correction of military records. This form allows individuals to address inaccuracies or injustices in their service records, ensuring that their military history accurately reflects their contributions. If you believe your records need correction, consider filling out the DD 149 form by clicking the button below.
The DD 149 form is an essential tool for veterans seeking to correct their military records. This form plays a pivotal role in ensuring that service members can address inaccuracies or omissions in their discharge documents. Whether it’s a mistake in personal information, an incorrect characterization of service, or the need for an upgrade in discharge status, the DD 149 provides a formal avenue for veterans to request changes. It is crucial to understand that completing this form accurately is vital, as it initiates a review process by the appropriate military board. Additionally, the form requires supporting documentation to substantiate the claims made, making it imperative for applicants to gather relevant evidence before submission. Understanding the nuances of the DD 149 can significantly impact a veteran's future opportunities, so timely and thorough completion is of utmost importance.
CUI (when filled in)
(Updated 20250213)
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. 0704-0003 OMB approval expires:
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
GUARD
3. NAME WHILE
LAST
SERVING
FIRST
4. CURRENT
NAME (If different)
5a. SSN WHILE SERVING
CURRENT SSN (If different)
5b. (provide, if applicable)
DoD ID NUMBER
SERVICE NUMBER
TIN
6. CURRENTLY SERVING
YES
NO
7. DATE OF SEPARATION
8. GRADE/RANK AT DISCHARGE
9.MAILING ADDRESS (If Service Member is deceased, skip this question.)
STREET
CITY, STATE/APO, COUNTRY/FOREIGN ADDRESS
ZIP
EMAIL
PHONE
SECTION 2: SEPARATION INFORMATION (if not currently serving)
10.CHARACTER OF SERVICE (If by court-martial, also state Type of Court in space provided.)
HONORABLE
UNDER HONORABLE
UNDER OTHER THAN
BAD CONDUCT DISCHARGE
DISHONORABLE
CONDITIONS (GENERAL)
HONORABLE CONDITIONS
UNCHARACTERIZED/ENTRY LEVEL
DISMISSAL
OTHER
TYPE OF COURT
SEPARATION
SECTION 3: ERROR OR INJUSTICE
11a. IS THIS A REQUEST FOR RECONSIDERATION OF A PRIOR APPLICATION TO THE BOARD?
11b. IF YES AND KNOWN, PROVIDE CASE NUMBER
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/
DEROGATORY INFORMATION
DISABILITY
PROMOTIONS/ RANK
DISCHARGE/ SEPARATION
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/
HEALTH
HARASSMENT
WHISTLEBLOWER
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
PREVIOUS EDITION IS OBSOLETE.
Controlled by:
Page 1 of 3
CUI Category:
LDC:
POC:
17. DO YOU WISH TO APPEAR AT YOUR OWN
YES. (IN PERSON)
YES. (VIA VIDEO /
NO. CONSIDER MY APPLICATION BASED
EXPENSE BEFORE THE BOARD IN WASHINGTON, D.C.?
TELEPHONE)
ON RECORDS & EVIDENCE.
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), post-service documents (e.g. diplomas, professional certificates, character references), and/or investigations. (Do not submit irreplaceable original documents. They will NOT be returned.)
a.
d.
g.
b.
c.
e.
f.
h.
i.
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
Please designate appropriate signatory below:
a. I am the heir of the Service Member: WIDOW(ER) SON DAUGHTER PARENT SIBLING
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
ATTORNEY-IN-FACT OF THE SERVICE MEMBER
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
22. MAILING ADDRESS
SECTION 6: REPRESENTATIVE OR COUNSEL (if applicable)
The following representative is authorized to receive and provide communication regarding this application.
23. NAME
24. ORGANIZATION
25. MAILING ADDRESS
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.)
27a. SIGNATURE (Required)
27b. DATE SIGNED
28. IS THIS REQUEST RELATED TO
Operation Freedom Sentinel (OFS) (01/01/2015 - Present)
Persian Gulf War (08/02/1990 - 11/30/1995)
Operation Inherent Resolve (OIR) (08/08/2014 - Present)
Vietnam War (01/01/1961 - 04/30/1975)
ANY OF THESE WARS OR
CONTINGENCY OPERATIONS?
Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) (09/11/2001 -12/31/2014)
Korean War (06/27/1950 - 07/27/1954)
Operation New Dawn (OND) (09/01/2010 - 12/15/2011)
World War II (12/07/1941 - 09/02/1945)
Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) (03/19/2003 - 08/31/2010)
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INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETION OF DD FORM 149
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 15-185 and www.arba.army.pentagon.mil; Navy - SECNAVINST.5420.193 and www.hq.navy.mil/bcnr/bcnr.htm; Air Force Instruction 36-2603, Air Force Pamphlet 36-2607, and www.afpc.randolph.af.mil/safmrbr; Coast Guard - Code of Federal Regulations, Title 33, Part 52 and www.uscg.mil/Resources/legal/BCMR.
MAIL COMPLETED APPLICATIONS TO APPROPRIATE ADDRESS BELOW
Army Review Boards Agency 251 18th Street South, Suite 385 Arlington, VA 22202-3531 https://arba.army.pentagon.mil
NAVY AND MARINE CORPS
Board for Correction of Naval Records 701 S. Courthouse Rd, Suite 1001 Arlington, VA 22204-2490 http://www.secnav.navy.mil/mra/bcnr / Pages/default.aspx
Air Force Board for Correction of Military Records 3351 Celmers Lane Joint Base Andrews, MD 20762-6435 https://afrba-portal.cce.af.mil/
DHS Office of the General Counsel Board for Correction of Military Records, Stop 0485
2707 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. S.E. Washington, DC 20528-0485 https://www.uscg.mil/Resources/lega l/ BCMR/
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 [email protected]. Respondents should be aware that notwithstanding any other provision of law, no person shall be subject to any penalty for failing to comply with a collection of information if it does not display a currently valid OMB control number.
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 (https://dpcld.defense.gov/Privacy/SORNsIndex/DOD-wide-SORN- Article-View/Article/569931/a0015-185-sfmr/) Navy and Marine Corps (http://dpcld.defense.gov/Privacy/SORNsIndex/DOD-wide-SORN-Article-View/Article/570411/nm01000-1/) Air Force (https://dpcld.defense.gov/Privacy/SORNsIndex/DOD-wide-SORN-Article-View/Article/569833/f036-safcb-a/) Defense Finance and Accounting Service (http://dpcld.defense.gov/ Privacy/SORNsIndex/DOD-wide-SORN-Article-View/Article/570192/t7340b/) Coast Guard (https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2013-10-02/html/2013-23991.htm) Official Military Personnel Files: Army (http://dpcld.defense.gov/Privacy/SORNsIndex/DOD-wide-SORN-Article-View/Article/570054/a0600-8-104-ahrc.aspx) Navy (http://dpcld.defense.gov/Privacy/ SORNsIndex/DOD-wide-SORN-Article-View/Article/570310/n01070-3/) Marine Corps (http://dpcld.defense.gov/Privacy/SORNsIndex/DOD-wide-SORN-Article-View/Article/570626/ m01070-6/) Air Force (http://dpcld.defense.gov/Privacy/SORNsIndex/DOD-Component-Article-View/Article/569821/f036-af-pc-c/) Coast Guard (http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/ FR-2011-10-28/html/2011-27881.htm
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.
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Filling out the DD 149 form is an important step in addressing certain military-related issues. After completing the form, you will need to submit it to the appropriate authority for review. Following the steps below will ensure that you provide all necessary information accurately.
The DD Form 149, also known as the Application for Correction of Military Records, is a document used by military personnel to request changes or corrections to their official military records. This form is typically utilized when an individual believes that their records contain errors or omissions that could affect their benefits, status, or reputation.
Eligibility to use the DD Form 149 generally includes:
It is important to ensure that the request is made by an eligible individual to facilitate the processing of the application.
To complete the DD Form 149, follow these steps:
Ensure that you keep copies of all submitted materials for your records.
After submission, the Board for Correction of Military Records will review your application. The process can take several months, depending on the volume of requests and the complexity of the case. You may receive a notification confirming receipt of your application, and you might be asked to provide additional information if necessary. Once a decision is made, you will be notified of the outcome, which could result in the approval or denial of your request for correction.
Incomplete Information: Many individuals fail to provide all the necessary details in the DD 149 form. Missing information can lead to delays or even rejection of the application. Ensure that every section is filled out completely.
Incorrect Contact Information: Providing outdated or incorrect contact information can hinder communication. Double-check phone numbers and email addresses to ensure they are current and accurate.
Failure to Sign: It might seem obvious, but some applicants forget to sign the form. A missing signature can render the application invalid. Always review the form for a signature before submission.
Not Following Instructions: The DD 149 form comes with specific instructions. Ignoring these can lead to mistakes. Take the time to read the guidelines carefully to avoid common pitfalls.
Submitting Without Supporting Documents: Some applicants submit the DD 149 form without including necessary supporting documents. These documents are crucial for the review process. Gather all required attachments before submission.
Using Inappropriate Language: The tone and language used in the form should remain professional. Avoid emotional language or personal anecdotes. Stick to the facts to maintain clarity and professionalism.
Ignoring Deadlines: Each application has a specific deadline. Missing this deadline can result in automatic disqualification. Keep track of submission dates to ensure timely processing.
The DD 149 form is used by veterans to apply for a correction of military records. This form often accompanies several other documents that provide necessary information and support the application. Below is a list of commonly used forms and documents that may be required alongside the DD 149.
Each of these forms and documents plays a crucial role in the application process. Gathering them can help ensure a smoother review and increase the chances of a successful outcome for the veteran's request for corrections.
The DD Form 149, also known as the Application for Correction of Military Record, is similar to the DD Form 214, which is the Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty. Both forms are essential in documenting a service member's military history. The DD Form 214 provides details about a veteran’s service, including dates of service and discharge status, while the DD Form 149 is used to request changes to the information on the DD Form 214. This process ensures that any errors or omissions in a service member's record can be corrected, promoting accuracy and fairness in military records.
Another document that shares similarities with the DD Form 149 is the VA Form 21-526EZ, which is the Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits. While the DD Form 149 focuses on correcting military records, the VA Form 21-526EZ is used to apply for disability benefits. Both forms require detailed information about the service member's military experience and any issues that may have arisen during service. Completing these forms accurately is crucial for ensuring that veterans receive the benefits and corrections they deserve.
The DD Form 293, or Application for the Review of Discharge from the Armed Forces of the United States, is also comparable to the DD Form 149. The DD Form 293 allows veterans to request a review of their discharge status. Similar to the DD Form 149, this form is used when a service member believes that their discharge was unjust or improper. Both forms provide a pathway for veterans to seek redress regarding their military records and discharge status.
The SF 180, Request Pertaining to Military Records, is another document that resembles the DD Form 149. This form is used to request copies of military records from the National Archives. While the DD Form 149 is focused on corrections, the SF 180 is about obtaining records. Both forms play a critical role in ensuring that veterans have access to their military information, whether for personal use or for making corrections.
The DD Form 2656, Data for Payment of Retired Personnel, is also similar in that it involves military records. This form is used by retired service members to provide information necessary for their retirement pay. Like the DD Form 149, it requires accurate information about the service member's history and status. Both forms are vital for ensuring that veterans receive the correct benefits based on their military service.
The VA Form 21-4138, Statement in Support of Claim, can also be compared to the DD Form 149. This form is used to provide additional information to support a claim for benefits. While the DD Form 149 seeks to correct records, the VA Form 21-4138 is often used in conjunction with other forms to strengthen a veteran's case for benefits. Both forms emphasize the importance of accurate and comprehensive information in the claims process.
Lastly, the DD Form 149 is similar to the NGB Form 22, which is the National Guard Report of Separation and Record of Service. The NGB Form 22 provides details about a service member's time in the National Guard. If there are discrepancies in this form, a service member may use the DD Form 149 to request corrections. Both forms are integral in maintaining accurate military records for service members.
When filling out the DD 149 form, it's important to follow specific guidelines to ensure accuracy and completeness. Here’s a list of things you should and shouldn’t do:
The DD 149 form is an important document for veterans seeking to correct military records. However, there are several misconceptions surrounding its use and purpose. Here are eight common misunderstandings:
This is not true. The DD 149 can be used for various corrections, including changes to the narrative reason for discharge, corrections of errors in records, and more.
Only the veteran or their authorized representative can submit this form. It is specifically designed for individuals who have served in the military.
While the form itself is straightforward, the review process can take time. It is essential to be patient and understand that each case is evaluated individually.
Submitting the form does not ensure that the request will be granted. Each application is assessed based on its merits and the evidence provided.
In many cases, supporting documents are crucial. They help to substantiate the claims made in the DD 149 and can significantly impact the decision.
While there is no strict deadline, it is advisable to submit the form as soon as possible after discovering an error. Delays may complicate the process.
It is possible to amend the submission if new information arises or if there are errors in the initial application. Communication with the reviewing body is key.
Depending on the nature of the correction, additional forms may be required. It is important to check the specific requirements for each case.
Understanding these misconceptions can help veterans navigate the process of correcting their military records more effectively.
The DD 149 form is essential for veterans seeking to correct their military records. Here are some key takeaways to consider when filling out and using this form: