The DD 149 form is a request for correction of military records, allowing service members and veterans to address errors or discrepancies in their official documentation. This form serves as a vital tool in ensuring that individuals receive the recognition and benefits they deserve. To take the next step in correcting your records, fill out the form by clicking the button below.
The DD 149 form serves as a crucial tool for veterans seeking to amend their military records. This document plays a significant role in the administrative processes of the Department of Defense, allowing individuals to request changes to their discharge status or correct errors in their military records. It addresses various issues, such as discrepancies in personal information, the nature of discharge, and other pertinent details that may affect a veteran's benefits and opportunities. Completing the DD 149 requires careful attention to detail, as it necessitates the submission of supporting documentation to substantiate the claims made by the applicant. Furthermore, the form must be submitted to the appropriate board for correction of military records, which evaluates each request based on established criteria. Understanding the implications of the DD 149 form is essential for veterans navigating the complexities of their military service history, as it can significantly impact their future access to benefits and services.
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 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 (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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After obtaining the DD 149 form, you will need to carefully complete it to ensure that all necessary information is provided. This form is essential for requesting a change to your military records. Follow these steps to fill it out accurately.
What is the DD 149 form?
The DD 149 form is a document used by military service members and veterans to request a change or correction to their military records. This form is specifically utilized for corrections related to discharge status, awards, and other entries in the service member's record.
Who can use the DD 149 form?
Active duty service members, veterans, and eligible family members can use the DD 149 form. It is designed for individuals who believe there is an error or injustice in their military records that needs to be addressed.
Where can I obtain a DD 149 form?
The DD 149 form can be downloaded from the official Department of Defense website. It is available in PDF format, making it easy to print and fill out. You can also request a hard copy from your local military installation or veterans' affairs office.
What information do I need to provide on the DD 149 form?
You will need to provide personal information such as your name, Social Security number, and service details. Additionally, you should describe the specific change or correction you are requesting and include any supporting documentation that justifies your request.
How do I submit the DD 149 form?
After completing the DD 149 form, submit it to the appropriate board for correction of military records. This is typically the Board for Correction of Military Records (BCMR) for your branch of service. Be sure to check the submission guidelines for your specific branch, as they may vary.
Is there a fee to submit the DD 149 form?
No, there is no fee to submit the DD 149 form. The process is free of charge for individuals seeking corrections to their military records.
How long does it take to process a DD 149 request?
The processing time for a DD 149 request can vary widely. It may take several months to receive a decision, depending on the complexity of the case and the workload of the board reviewing your request. Patience is often required during this process.
What happens after I submit my DD 149 form?
Once your DD 149 form is submitted, the board will review your request and any supporting documents. They may reach out for additional information if needed. After the review, you will receive a decision regarding your request. If approved, the necessary changes will be made to your military records.
Can I appeal the decision made on my DD 149 request?
Yes, if your request is denied, you may have the option to appeal the decision. The appeal process typically involves submitting a new application or additional evidence to support your case. Check the specific procedures for your branch of service for more details on how to proceed with an appeal.
Filling out the DD 149 form, which is used to apply for a correction of military records, can be a complex process. Many individuals encounter pitfalls that can hinder their applications. One common mistake is failing to provide adequate documentation. Supporting documents are crucial for substantiating the claims made in the application. Without these, the review board may not have enough information to make an informed decision.
Another frequent error involves incomplete information. Applicants sometimes neglect to fill in all required fields or provide only partial details. This oversight can lead to delays in processing or even denial of the application. It is essential to review the form carefully to ensure that every section is fully completed.
Additionally, some individuals overlook the importance of clarity and specificity in their explanations. Vague language or general statements can confuse the reviewers. Clear and detailed descriptions of the issues being addressed are vital. Providing specific examples helps to strengthen the case for correction.
Another mistake is not adhering to submission guidelines. Each application must follow specific procedures regarding where and how to submit the form. Ignoring these guidelines can result in the application being returned or rejected. Applicants should always verify that they are following the latest instructions provided by the relevant military branch.
Lastly, many people fail to keep copies of their submitted forms and supporting documents. This can be problematic if there are questions or if the application is lost. Maintaining a record of all submissions ensures that individuals can refer back to their original documents if needed, facilitating any follow-up communications.
The DD 149 form, also known as the Application for Correction of Military Records, is an essential document for service members seeking to amend their military records. However, several other forms and documents often accompany this application to ensure a comprehensive review process. Below is a list of these documents, each serving a specific purpose in the correction process.
Each of these documents plays a vital role in the review process for the DD 149 form. Collecting and submitting the appropriate paperwork can significantly enhance the chances of a successful outcome. Ensure that all documents are accurate and complete to facilitate a smoother review process.
The DD Form 149 is a key document used by veterans to request a correction of military records. It shares similarities with several other forms used in various contexts. Below is a list of documents that are similar to the DD Form 149, along with explanations of their similarities.
When filling out the DD 149 form, it is important to follow certain guidelines to ensure accuracy and compliance. Here are five things you should and shouldn't do:
The DD Form 149 is often misunderstood. Here are ten common misconceptions about this form, along with clarifications to help you navigate its purpose and use more effectively.
This form can be used by active duty service members, veterans, and former service members seeking to correct their military records.
While it is commonly used for discharge upgrades, the form can also address other corrections, such as errors in awards or military service dates.
Submitting a DD Form 149 does not guarantee that your request will be approved. Each case is evaluated on its own merits.
While legal assistance can be helpful, it is not necessary to have a lawyer to fill out and submit the DD Form 149.
Many boards now accept electronic submissions, making it easier to file your request online.
While there are general guidelines, there is no strict deadline for submitting the DD Form 149. However, earlier submissions are often more effective.
The board will review your request, but they may require additional documentation or evidence to support your case.
You can submit multiple requests simultaneously, as long as each request pertains to a different issue.
In addition to administrative errors, the form can also be used to address issues related to military misconduct or other significant events.
You can withdraw your request at any time before a decision is made by the board.
The DD 149 form is essential for veterans seeking to correct their military records. Understanding how to properly fill out and utilize this form can significantly impact the outcome of the request. Here are some key takeaways: