Nowadays, you can get almost anything you want in just minutes with a simple click. Feel like having your favorite pizza delivered? Click. Want to download that new book or movie? Click. Curious about your credit score? Click. Thanks to modern technology, we have gotten used to instant gratification—which is why it is even more frustrating when things move slowly.
If you are a veteran and you have tried to request a copy of your DD214, OMPF, DD256 or NGB22, you know what we mean. The National Archives, which stores and manages military service records housed in more than 100 different repositories across the country, may as well be stuck in the Dark Ages of information technology.
Here is how most military records requests work:
You will be asked to download and print a military records request form (SF-180) from the National Archives online system. Once completed and signed, you will then need to fax or mail your request form to the National Personnel Records Center in St. Louis, Missouri.
The National Archives clearly states on its website that the response time will vary based on the complexity of each request. However, it takes ten full days for them to even process your request, and they ask that veterans refrain from following up with them until at least three months from the initial request.
If you do not have access to a printer or are otherwise unable to obtain an SF-180, you can mail a handwritten request to the National Personnel Records Center or visit the National Archives in person. (To do so, you will need to schedule an appointment to utilize one of their designated Research Rooms.)
Can I get VA benefits without a DD214?
Typically, no. You need a DD214 to show proof of service in most cases, including when you request veteran employment preference or apply for a VA home loan, health care benefits, disability compensation, memorial benefits (in the case of spouses and family members), or training and education opportunities.
What if I need my DD214 sooner for school or a new job prospect?
Your best bet is to hire an independent researcher like veteran-founded DD214Direct.com. We know what it’s like to wait because we’ve experienced it ourselves—and we knew there had to be a better way.
In most cases, DD214Direct will process your request the same day and submit it the next business day. Our process is easier and faster than dealing directly with the government, and we will hand-submit your request at the counter instead of it being funneled through a large call center. That way, you can avoid long hold times and unpredictable turnarounds.
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 competitors. We physically stand in line at the records repository and manually coordinate your order, freeing up your time and easing your worries about whether or not you will get your DD214. 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.
Instead of having to download, print, sign and fax your document request form, you can submit your order directly through our website with the ease of e-signature technology from a desktop, laptop or mobile device. Once we locate your DD214, we will 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.
