Here in the United States, the law mandates that deceased veterans should receive military funeral honors, provided they meet the eligibility requirements outlined by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Because the death of a loved one can be difficult to manage, family members often rely on others for help when it comes to making funeral arrangements. As a result, funeral directors, who are primarily responsible for planning and organizing the service, may also be asked to request a veteran's military service records to provide proof of eligibility.
If you are a funeral director, it is important to understand that requesting a DD214 or other discharge document is not something you can do.
This is because only a deceased veteran's next-of-kin can request their discharge paperwork, which includes the veteran's spouse or surviving widow (if not remarried) or their parent, child, or sibling. In some cases, funeral directors may be able to help the family fill out the necessary forms, but they would not be able to submit the request on the family's behalf.
As a funeral director, where can I point my clients for help?
DD214Direct.com has been helping veterans and their families retrieve their important military documents for nearly a decade. As a company founded by veterans and for veterans, we understand the process better than anyone and can help families get a DD214 faster to ensure their loved ones receive a proper military funeral. Even now, with COVID-19 impacting much of the country, our office remains open and we are still the fastest way for veterans and military families to retrieve their DD214 and other military service records. Funerals, along with cases involving medical benefits and veteran homelessness, are being prioritized right now, so it is important to let our team know the reason for your request when you call us 800.891.9285 or request your DD214 online.
Veteran-owned DD214Direct helps you get the documents you need, when you need them.
Our cutting-edge technology platform and keen knowledge of government protocol and procedure allow us to deliver your documents faster than you could get them on your own. First, we digitize both your request and the returned documents, using electronic signatures to avoid extra time with the postal service. We also integrate email and fax throughout our entire process, while many agencies do not. To further expedite the process, our team ensures your initial request is filled out properly the first time and includes the necessary supporting documentation so that it doesn't bounce back. In addition, we break up multiple requests (DD214, OMPF, etc.) so that each piece is handled separately and one does not delay the other. Once your request is processed, DD214Direct becomes your personal advocate, working directly with the agency that holds your records (currently there are about 75 independent agencies) and immediately responding to any agency issues on your behalf. In many cases, DD214Direct is able to advance your request to a higher-priority workflow. Finally, we have team members at many locations to drop off and pick up documents. Much like paying a small fee to have your taxes done by a professional, DD214Direct provides the service and convenience you’ve been hoping for, plus we make it a lot easier. Once we locate your DD214, we can email you a copy immediately—a service not offered by the government. And tracking your request through us is simple, so you never have to worry about long hold times and inconclusive answers. Ready to get started? Click here to begin the order process.
