The short answer here is yes.

Sometimes it happens that a parent or a family member needs to request a DD214 for a deceased veteran. Initially, a copy of the veteran’s DD214 will be required to ensure military funeral honors, apply for memorial items such as grave markers or headstones, and to determine whether or not you qualify for bereavement counseling through the VA. Later, a DD214 copy may be necessary to secure assistance for health care, education, and other benefits.

For all deceased veterans, the individual requesting the DD214 must be the next-of-kin. The term “next-of-kin” is defined by the U.S. government as one of the following individuals: the spouse or surviving widow (if not remarried) or the parent, child, or sibling of the veteran. If your veteran family member is not deceased, you may only request a copy of their DD214 if you are the individual’s legal guardian.

What do I need to do to request a DD214 copy for my child?

For deceased veterans who were discharged fewer than 62 years ago (i.e., after 1957), you must provide proof of the death of the individual. Examples include a copy of the death certificate, a published obituary, or a letter from the funeral home.

When you request a DD214 copy for your son or daughter, you will also be asked to provide their full name, service number, Social Security number, branch and dates of service, and date and place of birth. If you have all of the necessary information, you can begin the DD214 request process with DD214Direct.com by filling out our online form for expedited retrieval service and continual updates on the status of your request.

What if I’m not the next-of-kin?

If you are not the veteran’s next-of-kin, certain information may still be accessible to you. Under the Freedom of Information Act, the National Personnel Records Center is permitted to release limited information from an Official Military Personnel File (OMPF) to the general public.* This includes the following information, if available.

  • Name
  • Service Number
  • Dates of Service
  • Branch of Service
  • Final Duty Status
  • Final Rank
  • Salary
  • Assignments and Geographical Locations
  • Source of Commission
  • Military Education Level
  • Promotion Sequence Number
  • Awards and decorations (eligibility only, not actual medals)
  • Photograph
  • Transcript of Courts-Martial Trials
  • Place of entrance and separation

If the veteran is deceased:

  • Place of birth
  • Date and geographical location of death
  • Place of burial

*According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, you are considered a member of the general public if you are not the veteran; if you are asking about a veteran who is of no relation to you; or if you are seeking information about a veteran who is a relative but for whom you are not the next-of-kin.”

What if my family member was discharged more than 62 years ago?

If the veteran was discharged more than 62 years prior to the current date, their records are no longer considered the property of the military service department that issued them. Instead, they are considered “Archival Records” and may be accessed by anyone.

When you’re ready to get started, veteran-owned DD214Direct can help 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.