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DD 149 Template

The DD 149 form is a request for correction of military records, specifically designed for veterans and service members seeking to amend information in their military files. This form serves as a crucial tool for individuals looking to rectify errors or update their records for various reasons, including benefits eligibility or personal matters. Understanding how to properly complete and submit the DD 149 can significantly impact the outcome of your request.

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The DD 149 form, also known as the Application for Correction of Military Record, plays a crucial role for veterans seeking to amend their military records. This form is essential for those who believe that their records contain errors or injustices that need rectification. The process of submitting a DD 149 can be a vital step in ensuring that a veteran’s service is accurately represented, which can impact benefits, honors, and personal reputation. It serves as a formal request to the appropriate military board, allowing individuals to present their case for correction. Whether the issues pertain to discharge status, awards, or other significant details, the DD 149 provides a structured way for veterans to seek the changes they deserve. Understanding how to properly fill out this form, including what supporting documentation may be required, is critical for a successful application. The urgency of addressing discrepancies in military records cannot be overstated, as these inaccuracies can affect a veteran’s access to necessary benefits and recognition for their service.

Key takeaways

Filling out and using the DD 149 form, which is the application for correction of military records, can be a straightforward process if you keep a few key points in mind. Here are ten important takeaways to consider:

Understand the Purpose: The DD 149 form is used to request changes to military records, including correcting errors or addressing injustices.
Eligibility: Ensure you are eligible to submit the form. Typically, you must be a veteran or a service member.
Gather Necessary Documents: Collect any supporting documents that substantiate your claim. This may include discharge papers or medical records.
Be Clear and Concise: When filling out the form, provide clear and concise information. Ambiguity can lead to delays or denials.
Follow Instructions Carefully: Each section of the form has specific instructions. Adhering to these is crucial for a successful application.
Review Before Submission: Double-check your completed form for any errors or omissions. A thorough review can prevent unnecessary complications.
Submit to the Correct Address: Ensure that you send the completed form to the appropriate office. Incorrect submissions can lead to processing delays.
Keep Copies: Always retain copies of your submitted form and any supporting documents for your records.
Follow Up: After submission, it’s wise to follow up on the status of your application. This can help you stay informed about any additional requirements.
Seek Assistance if Needed: If you encounter difficulties, consider reaching out to a veteran service organization for guidance and support.

By keeping these takeaways in mind, you can navigate the process of filling out and using the DD 149 form more effectively. Each step you take brings you closer to achieving the corrections you seek in your military records.

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Documents used along the form

The DD 149 form is essential for veterans seeking to request a correction to their military records. However, it is often accompanied by other important documents that support the request and provide necessary context. Below is a list of additional forms and documents that are commonly used alongside the DD 149 form.

DD Form 214: This document serves as the certificate of release or discharge from active duty. It outlines a veteran's service history, including dates of service and type of discharge. A copy of this form is often required to verify eligibility for benefits or corrections.
Supporting Statement: A personal statement from the veteran can help clarify the reasons for the requested correction. This document should detail the circumstances surrounding the request and any relevant information that supports the case.
Medical Records: If the correction pertains to a medical issue or disability, relevant medical records can provide crucial evidence. These documents may include treatment histories or evaluations that support the veteran's claim.
Missouri Bill of Sale form: A vital resource for transferring ownership of personal property, ensure accurate completion by visiting https://missouriform.com.
Other Military Records: Additional records, such as performance evaluations, awards, or disciplinary records, may also be included. These documents can help establish the context of the veteran's service and support the request for correction.

Gathering these documents can significantly enhance the chances of a successful request for correction. Each piece of information contributes to a clearer understanding of the veteran's circumstances and service history.

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 nine things to keep in mind:

Do read the instructions carefully before starting.
Don't leave any sections blank; provide all required information.
Do use clear and legible handwriting or type your responses.
Don't use abbreviations that may confuse the reader.
Do double-check your contact information for accuracy.
Don't submit the form without reviewing it for errors.
Do keep a copy of the completed form for your records.
Don't forget to sign and date the form before submission.
Do follow up if you don’t receive a response in a reasonable time frame.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your DD 149 form is completed correctly and efficiently.

Common mistakes

Filling out the DD 149 form can be a daunting task for many. This form is essential for veterans seeking to correct their military records. However, several common mistakes can hinder the process and lead to delays. Understanding these pitfalls can help ensure a smoother experience.

One frequent mistake is failing to provide complete information. The form requires specific details about the applicant and their military service. Omitting information, such as service dates or branch of service, can result in processing delays. It is crucial to double-check that all sections are filled out thoroughly.

Another common error is neglecting to sign and date the form. A signature is not just a formality; it confirms that the information provided is accurate. Without a signature, the form may be returned, causing unnecessary frustration. Always remember to sign and date the document before submission.

Many people also make the mistake of not including supporting documents. The DD 149 often requires additional evidence, such as discharge papers or medical records. Failing to attach these documents can lead to a denial of the request. It is advisable to review the requirements carefully and include all necessary paperwork.

Submitting the form to the wrong address is another mistake that can occur. Each branch of the military has specific instructions on where to send the DD 149. Ensuring the form reaches the correct destination is vital for timely processing. Check the guidelines provided for the appropriate mailing address.

Some individuals overlook the importance of keeping copies of everything submitted. After sending the DD 149, it is wise to retain a copy for personal records. This can be helpful if there are questions or if the form is lost in transit. Keeping organized records can simplify future communications.

Lastly, many applicants fail to follow up on their requests. After submitting the form, it is essential to monitor its status. If there is no response within a reasonable time frame, reaching out for updates can help. Staying proactive can prevent unnecessary delays and ensure that the request is being processed.

File Characteristics

Fact Name	Details
Purpose	The DD Form 149 is used by military members and veterans to apply for a change to their discharge status or to request correction of their military records.
Eligibility	Any individual who has served in the military and has received a discharge can submit this form to seek changes or corrections.
Submission Process	The completed form must be submitted to the appropriate military branch's Board for Correction of Military Records.
Supporting Documents	Applicants are encouraged to include any relevant documentation that supports their request, such as medical records or service records.
Governing Law	The process is governed by Title 10 of the United States Code, which outlines the rules for military personnel and their records.
Processing Time	Review and processing of the DD Form 149 can take several months, depending on the complexity of the request and the volume of applications received.

Form Sample

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

Suffix

4. CURRENT NAME

Last

(if different)

First

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	Discharge / Separation	Other

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.)

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

Suffix

22. MAILING ADDRESS

Street

City, State / APO / Country or Foreign Address

ZIP

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

Suffix

24. ORGANIZATION

25. MAILING ADDRESS Street

City, State / APO / Country or Foreign Address

ZIP

Phone

SECTION 7: SIGNATURE

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

YES

(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)
16. IS THIS REQUEST RELATED TO ANY			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?		Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) (09/11/2001 -		Korean War (06/27/1950 - 07/27/1954)
	OPERATIONS?		12/31/2014)		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 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
			PREVIOUS EDITION IS OBSOLETE.

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.

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