Free DD 149 PDF Template

1. What is a DD 149 form?

   A DD 149 form, officially known as the "Application for Correction of Military Record Under the Provisions of Title 10, U.S. Code, Section 1552," is a crucial document used by veterans or current members of the military. It allows individuals to request a correction to any error or injustice found in their military records. Submitting this form is the first step in ensuring that one's military records accurately reflect their service and personal details.

2. Who can submit a DD 149 form?

   Eligibility to submit a DD 149 form extends to veterans, current military members, and in some cases, survivors of deceased veterans. This includes spouses, children, parents, or legal representatives who have a valid interest in the correction of the veteran's military record.

3. What information is needed to fill out a DD 149 form?

   To complete a DD 149 form accurately, individuals must provide personal identification information, including their full name, Social Security Number, and contact details. Additionally, it's important to specify the correction sought and provide evidence or documents that support the claim of error or injustice in the military records.

4. Where can one obtain a DD 149 form?

   The DD 149 form can be downloaded from the official website of the respective branch of the military service or the Department of Defense. It is also obtainable at veterans' support organizations or through legal representatives specializing in military law.

5. What is the deadline for submitting a DD 149 form?

   Individuals have up to three years from the date they discover an error or injustice in their military record to submit a DD 149 form. However, if this deadline has passed, they may still apply, but must provide a compelling explanation for the delay. Each case is assessed individually, taking into consideration the reasons for the delay.

6. How does one submit a DD 149 form?

   After completing the DD 149 form, it should be sent to the appropriate military department's review board. The address for each service's review board can be found on the instructions page of the DD 149 form. Submission can typically be done via mail, and in some instances, electronic submissions may be accepted.

7. What happens after submitting a DD 149 form?

   Upon receiving the DD 149 form, the respective military department's review board will evaluate the application. This process involves reviewing the provided evidence and possibly requesting additional information. If the board finds the claim valid, it will make the necessary corrections to the individual's military records. The applicant is notified of the decision once it is made. This process can vary in length, but applicants should expect it to take several months.

8. Is there any cost associated with submitting a DD 149 form?

   There is no fee to submit a DD 149 form. However, if an individual hires a legal representative or obtains documents at a cost to support their case, they will be responsible for these expenses. It's important to consider all aspects of the application process when preparing a submission.

Filling out the DD 149 form, which is used to correct military records, can be a crucial process for veterans. However, mistakes during this process can lead to delays or even denials. Here are seven common errors people make:

1. Not providing specific details about the error or injustice: It's essential to clearly describe what you believe is incorrect in your military records and why. Vague requests may not provide enough information for a thorough review.

2. Missing documentation: For a successful record correction, supporting documents are often necessary. Failing to attach reports, letters, orders, or other pertinent records can weaken your case.

3. Incorrect personal information: Even simple mistakes in your name, service number, or Social Security number can lead to significant delays. Double-check these details for accuracy.

4. Not specifying the correction sought: It's not enough to highlight an issue; you also need to indicate what correction you believe should be made to your records.

5. Using the wrong form: Ensure that the DD 149 form is the correct form for your needs. There are different forms for different military-related requests.

6. Lack of signature: A common but critical mistake is forgetting to sign the form. An unsigned form is usually not processed.

7. Submitting to the wrong office: Each branch of the military has a specific office that handles DD 149 forms. Sending your form to the wrong place can result in delays.

To avoid these errors, take the time to review instructions carefully, gather all necessary documents, and double-check all filled-out information before submission. Completing the DD 149 form accurately and thoroughly can help ensure that your request for record correction is processed efficiently.

When dealing with the DD 149 form, which is primarily used for correcting military records, applicants often find themselves needing additional documents to support their application. These documents play a crucial role in substantiating the request for correction, providing the necessary evidence, and ensuring the application is processed efficiently. Among the suite of supporting documents, several are commonly referenced and utilized by applicants to strengthen their case.

• Service Medical Records (SMR): These are comprehensive records documenting an individual's medical history and treatment while in service. They are crucial for claims involving medical or disability issues.
• Performance Evaluations: Performance evaluations provide insight into an individual's conduct, performance, and achievements during their military service. They can be pivotal in cases where service records are disputed or inaccurately reflect a service member's contributions.
• Orders and Directives: Official orders and directives are used to verify the authenticity of claims related to assignments, duties, deployments, and other military operations. They help establish the factual basis of the service member's appeal.
• Awards and Decorations Records: These records validate claims for corrections related to military awards and decorations not properly recorded or awarded. They are essential for ensuring due recognition of service.
• Legal and Disciplinary Records: For cases involving disputes about disciplinary actions, these records provide a detailed account of any legal proceedings, decisions, and their outcomes. They are instrumental in cases seeking to amend or expunge such records.
• Personal Statements and Affidavits: Personal statements from the applicant and affidavits from witnesses offer a narrative account and testimonial evidence supporting the request for record correction. They personalize and lend credibility to the application.
• Supporting Documentation from Government Agencies: Occasionally, documents from other government agencies, such as the Veterans Affairs (VA), are required to corroborate claims related to service-connected issues, benefits, and treatments post-service.

Each of these documents plays a unique and vital role in constructing a comprehensive application for correcting military records. Applicants are encouraged to gather as much relevant information and documentation as possible. Doing so not only reinforces the credibility of their claim but also significantly enhances the likelihood of a favorable outcome. While the process can seem daunting, detailed preparation and organization are key to successfully navigating the complexities of military record correction.

• DD 214 - Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty: Similar to the DD 149 form, the DD 214 is a crucial document for veterans as it provides verification of military service. Both forms are integral to accessing veteran benefits, with the DD 214 often serving as a prerequisite for the adjustments the DD 149 seeks to amend or correct in a veteran’s military record.

• VA Form 22-1995 - Request for Change of Program or Place of Training: Just like the DD 149, this form is used by veterans and service members to make significant changes related to their benefits. While the DD 149 focuses on correcting military records, the VA Form 22-1995 is used to notify the Department of Veterans Affairs about changes in education or training programs, exemplifying the pursuit of adjustments within veteran-related documentation.

• Standard Form 180 (SF-180) - Request Pertaining to Military Records: This form and the DD 149 are closely aligned in their purpose of accessing and amending military records. The SF-180 is typically used to request copies of military service records, including health records, decorations, and separation documents. Both forms are essential for veterans who need to obtain or correct their records for personal, health, or legal reasons.

• NA Form 13055 - Request for Information Needed to Reconstruct Medical Data: Both the DD 149 and NA Form 13055 deal with the rectification or reconstruction of vital information. In particular, NA Form 13055 is focused on reconstructing medical records that have been lost or destroyed. Similar to DD 149’s role in correcting military records, this form is crucial for veterans seeking to claim benefits that require medical documentation.

• VA Form 21-526EZ - Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits: This form shares a goal with the DD 149 in that it is used by veterans to adjust their status based on specific circumstances – in this case, applying for disability benefits. The need for accurate military records, potentially corrected by the DD 149, underpins the importance of the 21-526EZ form, as the submission of accurate data directly impacts the veterans’ compensation and benefits.

Filling out the DD 149 form, the application for correction of military record, is an important step for veterans seeking to amend any inaccuracies or injustices in their military records. To ensure the process is completed effectively, there are several do's and don'ts to keep in mind:

Do's:

1. Read the instructions carefully before beginning to fill out the form to avoid any mistakes.
2. Gather all necessary documentation and evidence supporting your claim for correction before you start.
3. Be precise and clear when describing the correction you are seeking. Make sure to specify what part of your record is incorrect and how it should be corrected.
4. Include your contact information, such as your phone number and email address, to ensure the board can reach you if they have any questions.
5. Sign and date the form to affirm that the information provided is true and correct to the best of your knowledge.
6. Make a copy of the completed form and all attached documents for your records before submitting everything to the review board.
7. Use a trackable shipping method when mailing your form to have proof of submission.
8. Be patient after submitting your application, as the review process can take several months.
9. Seek assistance if you have any questions or need help filling out the form, either from a Veterans Service Organization (VSO) or legal advisor who is familiar with military records correction.
10. Check for any updates or changes to the form or submission process, as policies and procedures may evolve.

Don'ts:

• Don't leave any fields blank. If a section doesn't apply, write "N/A" (not applicable) to ensure the form is complete.
• Don't forget to specify what corrective action you're requesting. Vague requests may lead to delays or denials.
• Don't provide false information or exaggerate the circumstances. Honesty is crucial in the review process.
• Don't neglect to include necessary supporting documents, as they substantiate your claim and are pivotal to the board's decision.
• Don't use informal language or slang in your descriptions. Keep your submission professional and to the point.
• Don't submit the form without reviewing it. Double-check for any errors or missing information.
• Don't send the original copies of your supporting documents unless specifically required. Always send copies.
• Don't hesitate to update your contact information with the board if it changes after submission to ensure you receive all correspondence.
• Don't become discouraged if your request is initially denied. You have the option to appeal the decision or seek further assistance.
• Don't overlook the deadline for submitting your application, as there may be time limits on when corrections can be requested.

The DD Form 149, often misunderstood, serves as an application for correction of military record under the provisions of Title 10, U.S. Code, Section 1552. Here are six common misconceptions about the form:

• Misconception 1: The DD 149 form is only for correcting typographical errors.
  Actually, the form is used to correct any injustice or error in a military record. This can include administrative errors, but also extends to more significant issues such as unjust evaluations, awards, or decorations not received.

• Misconception 2: You can file a DD 149 form at any time after your service.
  There's a time limit. Applications must be filed within three years after the error or injustice was discovered. Exceptions exist, but they are rare and require strong justification.

• Misconception 3: Submitting a DD 149 guarantees changes to your military record.
  Submission of the form only starts the process. The review board will carefully examine all submitted evidence and the current record before making a decision. Approval is not guaranteed.

• Misconception 4: You need to hire a lawyer to submit a DD 149.
  While legal advice can be beneficial, especially for complex cases, it is not necessary to have a lawyer to submit the form. Guidance is available from various veterans' service organizations at no cost.

• Misconception 5: The DD 149 is a lengthy and complicated form to fill out.
  The form is relatively straightforward. It asks for information about the applicant, details of the alleged error or injustice, and what corrective action is being requested. Completing the form accurately and providing supporting documentation is important for a successful application.

• Misconception 6: Filing a DD 149 will affect your current or future benefits.
  Filing the form does not affect any benefits. It is purely a request to correct records. If anything, a successful correction might lead to the restoration or awarding of benefits that were unjustly denied or not recognized previously.

The DD 149 form, also known as the Application for Correction of Military Record, serves as a crucial tool for veterans seeking amendments to their military records. These amendments could range from correcting errors to updating personal details that may have been inaccurately recorded during their service period. Given the importance of accurate service records for benefits, recognition, and personal history, understanding how to properly fill out and utilize the DD 149 form is essential. Here are key takeaways regarding the process:

• Eligibility: Any current or former member of the United States military services can submit a DD 149 form to correct an error or remove an injustice from their military records.
• Timeliness: It is generally advisable to submit the application within three years of discovering the error or injustice. Although submissions after this period can be considered, justification for the delay must be provided, and it might affect the application's success.
• Specificity is Key: When filling out the form, it's crucial to specify exactly what aspects of the record are incorrect and how they should be corrected. Providing evidence or documents to support the claim can greatly enhance the application's chances of success.
• Supporting Documentation: Attach all pertinent documents that support the correction request. This can include copies of service records, letters from witnesses, or official documents that reflect the accurate information.
• Review Process: Once submitted, the application is reviewed by the relevant service's Board for Correction of Military Records (BCMR). The review process can take a significant amount of time, often several months, due to the detailed investigation required.
• Possible Outcomes: The board may approve the correction, deny the application, or request further evidence. If the correction is approved, the military record will be amended accordingly.
• Appealing a Decision: If the application is denied, the individual has the right to appeal the decision. It's important to note that there is a deadline for filing an appeal, and the process for appealing can vary depending on the military service.

Completing and submitting a DD 149 form is a process that requires attention to detail and patience. However, correctly amending one's military records not only corrects injustices or errors but also ensures that veterans receive the benefits and recognition they rightfully deserve.