Homepage / Blank DD 149 Form

Misconceptions

The DD 149 form is an important document for veterans seeking to correct their military records. However, there are several misconceptions surrounding it. Here are four common misunderstandings:

  • The DD 149 is only for veterans with dishonorable discharges. This is not true. The DD 149 can be used by any veteran seeking to correct their military records, regardless of their discharge status.
  • You must have a lawyer to file a DD 149. While having legal assistance can be helpful, it is not necessary. Many veterans successfully file the DD 149 on their own.
  • The process is quick and easy. Unfortunately, this is a misconception. The review process can take several months, and patience is often required.
  • Once submitted, you cannot make changes to your DD 149. This is false. You can amend your application if new information comes to light or if you need to clarify something.

Understanding these misconceptions can help veterans navigate the process more effectively. It’s important to approach the DD 149 with accurate information and realistic expectations.

Detailed Steps for Filling Out DD 149

When preparing to fill out the DD 149 form, it is essential to gather all necessary information and documents that will support your request. This form is used to apply for a correction of military records, and completing it accurately will facilitate the review process. Follow the steps below to ensure that you provide all required information clearly and concisely.

  1. Begin by downloading the DD 149 form from the official military or government website.
  2. Read the instructions carefully to understand the requirements and what information you need to provide.
  3. At the top of the form, fill in your personal information, including your full name, Social Security number, and contact information.
  4. Indicate your branch of service and your service number, if applicable.
  5. Provide details regarding the specific record you wish to correct. This may include dates of service, type of discharge, and any relevant documentation.
  6. Clearly explain the reason for the correction request in the designated section. Be concise and factual.
  7. Include any supporting documents that substantiate your request. This could be copies of discharge papers, medical records, or other pertinent information.
  8. Sign and date the form at the bottom, certifying that all information provided is accurate to the best of your knowledge.
  9. Make a copy of the completed form and all attached documents for your records.
  10. Submit the form and supporting documents to the appropriate address, as indicated in the instructions.

After submitting the DD 149 form, you will await a response from the appropriate military board or authority. This process can take some time, so patience is key. Keep track of your submission and any correspondence related to your request for a correction.

Document Preview

Prescribed by: DoDD 1332.41, DoDI 1332.28

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.)

OMB No. 0704-0003 OMB approval expires: 20221031

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DO NOT WRITE BELOW

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2. COMPONENT AT TIME OF ERROR OR INJUSTICE

 

 

 

 

REGULAR

 

 

 

 

RESERVE

 

 

 

 

GUARD

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3. NAME WHILE

Last

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SERVING

First

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MI

 

 

 

Suffix

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4. CURRENT NAME

Last

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(if different)

First

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MI

 

 

 

Suffix

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5a. SSN WHILE SERVING

 

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

 

CURRENT SSN (if different)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

5b. (provide, if applicable)

 

 

 

DoD ID Number,

 

 

SERVICE NUMBER, or

 

 

 

 

TIN

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6.MAILING ADDRESS (If Service Member is deceased, skip this question.) Street

City, State / APO / Country or Foreign Address

ZIP

 

 

Email

Phone

 

 

SECTION 2: SEPARATION INFORMATION (if not currently serving)

7. CURRENTLY SERVING?

 

YES

 

NO

8. DATE OF SEPARATION (YYYYMMDD)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

9.CHARACTER OF SERVICE (If by court-martial, also state Type of Court in space provided.)

Honorable

Under Honorable Conditions (General)

Under Other than Honorable Conditions

Bad Conduct Discharge

Dishonorable

 

Dismissal

Uncharacterized / Entry Level Separation

Other

Type of Court

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SECTION 3: ERROR OR INJUSTICE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10a. IS THIS A REQUEST FOR RECONSIDERATION OF A PRIOR APPLICATION TO THE BOARD?

YES

NO

 

 

10b. IF YES AND KNOWN, PROVIDE CASE NUMBER

 

AND DECISION DATE (YYYYMMDD)

 

 

11.CATEGORY (Select all that apply. Example: Administrative Correction - change in name, DOB, SSN.)

Administrative Correction

 

Pay & Allowance

 

Decoration / Awards

 

 

Performance / Evaluations / Derogatory Information

 

 

 

 

Discharge / Separation

 

 

Other

Disability

 

Promotions / Rank

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12. WHAT CORRECTION AND RELIEF ARE YOU REQUESTING FOR THIS ERROR OR INJUSTICE IN THE SERVICE MEMBER'S RECORD? (required)

13. ARE ANY OF THE FOLLOWING ISSUES/CONDITIONS RELATED TO YOUR REQUEST: (Select all that apply.)

PTSD TBI Other Mental Health Sexual Assault / Harassment DADT Transgender Reprisal / Whistleblower

14. WHY SHOULD THIS CORRECTION BE MADE? (required)

15. APPROXIMATE DATES (YYYYMMDD)THE ERROR OR INJUSTICE OCCURRED:AND 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, DEC 2019

PREVIOUS EDITION IS OBSOLETE.

Page 1 of 3

Prescribed by: DoDD 1332.41, DoDI 1332.28
17. DO YOU WISH TO APPEAR AT YOUR OWN EXPENSE BEFORE THE BOARD IN WASHINGTON, D.C.?

YES. (IN PERSON)

YES. (VIA VIDEO /

TELEPHONE)

NO. CONSIDER MY APPLICATION BASED ON RECORDS & EVIDENCE.

THE BOARD WILL DETERMINE IF WARRANTED.

18.ADDITIONAL REMARKS/CONTINUATION OF INFORMATION (If more space is needed, please submit additional narrative as required.)

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.

b.

c

d.

g.

e.

h.

f.

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

other

 

 

 

 

 

Please designate appropriate signatory below:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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.

I am the

conservator,

guardian, or

attorney-in-fact of the Service Member.

Please provide a notarized power of attorney or court appointment of conservatorship or guardianship to prove status.

I am the

spouse,

 

former spouse, or

 

dependent of the Service Member.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Please provide marriage license, divorce decree, or dependent birth certificate, as appropriate to prove relationship

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

21. NAME

 

 

Last

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

First

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MI

 

Suffix

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

22. MAILING ADDRESS

 

Street

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City, State / APO / Country or Foreign Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ZIP

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Email

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Phone

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SECTION 6: REPRESENTATIVE OR COUNSEL (if applicable)

The following representative is authorized to receive and provide communication regarding this application.

23. NAME

Last

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

First

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MI

 

 

Suffix

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

24. ORGANIZATION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

25. MAILING ADDRESS Street

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City, State / APO / Country or Foreign Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

ZIP

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Email

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Phone

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SECTION 7: SIGNATURE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

26. I WOULD LIKE TO RECEIVE ALL CORRESPONDENCE & DOCUMENTS ELECTRONICALLY.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

YES

 

 

 

 

NO

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(This may reduce overall processing time.)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

27b. DATE SIGNED (YYYYMMDD)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

16. IS THIS REQUEST RELATED TO ANY

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)

 

 

 

OF THESE WARS OR CONTINGENCY

Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) (09/11/2001 -

 

 

 

 

 

 

OPERATIONS?

 

Korean War (06/27/1950 - 07/27/1954)

 

 

 

 

12/31/2014)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operation New Dawn (OND) (09/01/2010 - 12/15/2011)

World War II (12/07/1941 - 09/02/1945)

 

 

 

Yes (Select all that apply.

No

 

 

 

Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) (03/19/2003 - 08/31/2010)

Other

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DD FORM 149, DEC 2019

 

PREVIOUS EDITION IS OBSOLETE.

 

Page 2 of 3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Prescribed by: DoDD 1332.41, DoDI 1332.28

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

NAVY AND MARINE CORPS

AIR FORCE

COAST GUARD

Army Review Boards Agency

Board for Correction of Naval

Air Force Board for Correction of

DHS Office of the General Counsel

251 18th Street South, Suite 385

Records

Military Records

Board for Correction of Military

Arlington, VA 22202-3531

701 S. Courthouse Rd, Suite 1001

3351 Celmers Lane

Records, Stop 0485

http://arba.army.pentagon.mil

Arlington, VA 22204-2490

Joint Base Andrews, MD 20762-6435

2707 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. S.E.

 

http://www.secnav.navy.mil/mra/bcnr

http://www.afpc.af.mil/Board-for-

Washington, DC 20528-0485

 

/Pages/default.aspx

Correction-of-Military-Records/

https://www.uscg.mil/Resources/lega

 

 

 

l/BCMR/

The public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 30 minutes 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 whs.mc-alex.esd.mbx.dd-dod-information-collections@mail.mil. 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 (http://dpcld.defense.gov/Privacy/SORNsIndex/DOD-wide-SORN-Article-View/Article/569931/a0015-185-sfmr.aspx)

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.

DD FORM 149, DEC 2019

PREVIOUS EDITION IS OBSOLETE.

Page 3 of 3

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the DD 149 form, it's essential to approach the task with care. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your submission is accurate and effective.

  • Do read the instructions carefully before starting.
  • Do use black ink or type the information to ensure clarity.
  • Do double-check all personal information for accuracy.
  • Do provide all required signatures where indicated.
  • Do keep a copy of the completed form for your records.
  • Don't leave any sections blank unless instructed to do so.
  • Don't use abbreviations or slang that may confuse the reviewer.
  • Don't submit the form without reviewing it for errors.
  • Don't forget to include any supporting documents that may be required.
  • Don't rush through the process; take your time to ensure accuracy.

Key takeaways

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:

  • Understand the Purpose: The DD 149 is used to request a correction to military records. This could include changes to discharge status, awards, or other personal information.
  • Gather Necessary Documentation: Before completing the form, collect all relevant documents that support your request. This may include discharge papers, medical records, or other official documents.
  • Be Clear and Concise: When filling out the form, provide clear and straightforward information. Avoid ambiguity to ensure your request is understood and processed efficiently.
  • Follow Submission Guidelines: Pay attention to the submission instructions. Ensure that you send the completed form to the correct address and include any required fees or additional documentation.

Similar forms

The DD Form 149, also known as the Application for Correction of Military Records, allows veterans to request changes to their military records. This form is similar to the VA Form 21-4138, Statement in Support of Claim, which veterans use to provide additional information or evidence to support their claims for benefits. Both forms serve the purpose of ensuring that the veteran's records accurately reflect their service and entitlements, but the VA Form 21-4138 focuses more on claims for benefits rather than corrections to the record itself.

Another document that resembles the DD Form 149 is the SF 180, Request Pertaining to Military Records. This form is used to request copies of military service records from the National Archives. Like the DD Form 149, it aims to help veterans access important documents, but while the DD Form 149 seeks to correct records, the SF 180 is primarily for obtaining copies of existing records.

The Form DD 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, is also related to the DD Form 149. The DD 214 provides a summary of a service member's military career, including discharge status. When veterans seek corrections to their DD 214, they often utilize the DD Form 149. Thus, both forms are intertwined, as the accuracy of the DD 214 can directly impact benefits and entitlements.

The VA Form 21-526EZ, Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits, shares a similar purpose with the DD Form 149 in that both aim to ensure veterans receive the benefits they deserve. While the DD Form 149 focuses on correcting records, the VA Form 21-526EZ is specifically for initiating a claim for disability compensation. Both forms require careful attention to detail and supporting documentation.

The DD Form 293, Application for the Review of Discharge from the Armed Forces of the United States, also parallels the DD Form 149. This form allows veterans to appeal their discharge status. Like the DD Form 149, it seeks to rectify a perceived injustice related to military service. Both documents are essential for veterans who believe their records do not accurately reflect their service or discharge circumstances.

The VA Form 21-534EZ, Application for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation, also connects with the DD Form 149. This form is used by survivors of veterans to apply for benefits. If a veteran’s record needs correction to ensure their dependents receive the appropriate benefits, the DD Form 149 may come into play. Both forms address issues of entitlement and accuracy in military records.

The DD Form 215, Correction to DD Form 214, is directly related to the DD Form 149. The DD Form 215 is used to make corrections to the information on the DD 214. While the DD Form 149 is an application to request such corrections, the DD Form 215 is the actual document that amends the DD 214 once the request is approved. This close relationship highlights the importance of accurate military records.

Finally, the VA Form 22-1990, Application for VA Education Benefits, shares a commonality with the DD Form 149 in that both can affect a veteran's access to benefits. The VA Form 22-1990 is used to apply for education benefits, which may depend on accurate military records. If a veteran’s service record needs correction to qualify for these benefits, the DD Form 149 becomes crucial in that process.

Documents used along the form

The DD 149 form is a key document used for applying for a correction of military records. However, it is often accompanied by other forms and documents that help support your application. Below is a list of commonly used forms and documents that may be required or beneficial when submitting a DD 149.

  • DD Form 214: This form provides a summary of a service member's military service, including dates of service, discharge status, and reason for discharge. It is essential for verifying the details of your military career.
  • SF 180: The Standard Form 180 is used to request military records. If you need to obtain your service records to support your DD 149 application, this form is necessary.
  • Supporting Statements: Personal statements or letters from fellow service members can provide context and support for your case. These statements can help illustrate the circumstances surrounding your request for correction.
  • Medical Records: If your application relates to a medical issue or condition, including relevant medical records can strengthen your case. These documents can provide evidence of treatment or diagnoses that impacted your service.
  • Performance Evaluations: Copies of your performance evaluations or fitness reports can demonstrate your conduct and performance during your service. These documents can be useful in establishing your character and service record.
  • Discharge Orders: If your discharge was not honorable or was under unusual circumstances, including copies of your discharge orders may be relevant. This documentation can clarify the nature of your separation from service.
  • Legal Documents: If applicable, any legal documents related to your military service, such as court-martial records or administrative separation paperwork, should be included to provide a complete picture of your situation.
  • Personal Narrative: A personal narrative detailing your experiences and the reasons for your request can be helpful. This document allows you to present your case in your own words and explain why the correction is warranted.

Each of these documents plays a vital role in supporting your application for correction of military records. Gathering the necessary forms and materials ensures that your application is as strong as possible, increasing the likelihood of a favorable outcome.