Your military record is more than just ink on paper. It’s the story of your service—the foundation for your VA benefits, retirement pay, reenlistment eligibility, civilian employment, and personal honor.

When your record contains an error, the impact can be devastating. A single incorrect code, missing medal, or inaccurate separation reason can lead to:

  • Lost benefits: From denied VA healthcare to blocked GI Bill education opportunities.

  • Career setbacks: Wrong RE codes or separation narratives can stop you from reenlisting or getting federal jobs.

  • Financial harm: Incorrect dates of service may reduce retirement pay or severance.

  • Damaged honor: A record that inaccurately reflects your service can tarnish your legacy and reputation.

That’s why the DD-215 exists: to fix errors on the DD-214 and restore accuracy, benefits, and peace of mind.

At National Security Law Firm (NSLF), we understand the stakes. Our dual advantage sets us apart:

  • Insider knowledge — Our team includes former JAGs, adjudicators, and federal insiders. We know the system because we helped build it.

  • Lived experience — Many of our attorneys and staff are veterans who have faced denials, retaliation, or injustice themselves.

We’re not just lawyers—we’re your mission-ready unit in the fight for justice. With 90+ years of combined experience, a 4.9-star Google rating, and nationwide representation from our base in Washington, D.C., we deliver results.

The National Security Law Firm: It’s Our Turn to Fight for You.

What Is a DD-215?

The DD-215 (Correction to DD-214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty) is the official amendment to your DD-214. Instead of reissuing your entire separation document, the military uses the DD-215 to correct specific errors or omissions.

Common corrections include:

  • Spelling mistakes in name or Social Security Number

  • Missing awards, decorations, or badges

  • Wrong separation authority, separation code, or reentry (RE) code

  • Incorrect narrative reason for separation

  • Wrong dates of service or duty stations

The DD-214 is one of the most important documents a service member ever receives, and errors are surprisingly common. The DD-215 exists to fix them.

Real-World Consequences of Record Errors

Example 1: Denied VA Benefits

A Navy veteran applied for VA disability benefits but was denied because his combat medal was missing from his DD-214. Without documentation, the VA could not verify eligibility. After obtaining a DD-215 reflecting the medal, his claim was approved, unlocking thousands in back pay and ongoing monthly compensation.

Example 2: Career Blocked by Wrong Code

An Army soldier received an RE code that incorrectly suggested misconduct. When he tried to reenlist, he was rejected. A successful DD-215 corrected the code, and he was able to continue his military career.

Example 3: Civilian Job Jeopardized

A Marine Corps veteran applied for a federal job requiring proof of honorable service. His DD-214 listed an incorrect narrative reason for separation that cast doubt on his record. After correction through a DD-215, he secured the job and preserved his livelihood.

These are not just clerical issues—they’re life-altering mistakes that demand immediate attention.

The Correction Process: Step by Step

Step 1: Identify the Error

Carefully review your DD-214 line by line. Many errors go unnoticed until a veteran applies for benefits, jobs, or reenlistment.

Step 2: Determine the Path

  • Simple factual errors (wrong SSN, missing medal): May be fixable through a Privacy Act Amendment request.

  • Broader issues (incorrect codes, separation narratives): Usually require a DD Form 149 (Application for Correction of Military Record) filed with the Board for Correction of Military Records (BCMR).

  • Discharge upgrades: Handled by a Discharge Review Board (DRB).

Step 3: Gather Evidence

Strong evidence is critical:

  • Award citations and orders

  • Medical records

  • Pay records

  • Sworn statements from supervisors or peers

  • Official correspondence proving the error

Step 4: File the Application

Submit your DD Form 149 or DD Form 293 (for DRBs) with supporting evidence. Clearly explain why the correction is necessary and how the error has harmed you.

Step 5: Wait for Review

Timelines vary:

  • Privacy Act Amendments: Weeks to months

  • DD-215 via BCMR/DRB: 6–18 months depending on complexity

Step 6: Receive the Decision

If approved, a DD-215 will be issued and mailed to you. It becomes a permanent part of your official military record.

DD-215 vs. Other Record Correction Tools

Correction Tool Best For Examples
Privacy Act Amendment Purely factual errors Wrong SSN, typo in name
DD-215 Specific corrections to DD-214 Missing medal, wrong RE code
Discharge Review Board (DRB) Discharge upgrades Changing OTH to General
Board for Correction of Military Records (BCMR) Broader errors/injustices Wrong separation reason, unjust code

When Do You Need a DD-215?

You need a DD-215 when errors in your DD-214 are:

  • Preventing you from accessing VA benefits

  • Blocking your reenlistment or federal employment

  • Affecting your retirement pay or back pay

  • Damaging your professional reputation

  • Standing in the way of honor and recognition for your service

If you’re applying for benefits, reenlistment, or a civilian job and notice a discrepancy, securing a DD-215 is urgent.

Hypotheticals: Good vs. Bad Approaches

Bad Approach

A veteran files a DD Form 149 with no supporting documentation, assuming the board will “look it up.” The case is denied for lack of evidence.

Good Approach

Another veteran submits the same form but includes:

  • Official award orders

  • Sworn statements from supervisors

  • Medical records supporting the claim

This veteran receives a favorable ruling and a DD-215 correcting the record.

Lesson: Evidence wins cases.

FAQ: DD-215 and Record Corrections

Is a DD-215 permanent?
Yes. Once issued, it becomes part of your official record and is just as valid as your DD-214.

Can I request multiple corrections on one DD-215?
Yes, but the more complex the issues, the more likely the board will require BCMR review.

Do I need a lawyer?
You don’t have to—but having a Military Record Correction Lawyer dramatically improves your chances of success. Lawyers know the boards, the evidence required, and the arguments that work.

What if my case is denied?
You can appeal. At NSLF, we frequently take on “unwinnable” cases and succeed where others have failed.

Why Choose NSLF for Your DD-215

Correcting military records is high-stakes. At NSLF, we:

  • Bring 100+ years of combined experience in military and federal law.

  • Operate from Washington, D.C.—the hub of military and federal cases.

  • Offer nationwide representation for veterans and service members.

  • Back every case with our Attorney Review Board (“war room”), where multiple attorneys collaborate on strategy.

  • Provide flat-fee pricing with flexible financing (3–24 months).

  • Are trusted by veterans nationwide with 4.9-star Google reviews.

We know the boards, we know the law, and we know what it’s like to stand in your boots.

Additional Resources

Need help correcting your records?

For step-by-step guides, templates, and board-specific strategies, visit our hub:
Military Record Correction Lawyer: Complete Guide & Resource Hub

Book a Free Mission Briefing: Start with a no-pressure strategy session.

Flexible Financing (3–24 months): Make a plan that fits your budget—see financing options.

4.9–Star Client Reviews: Why veterans and federal employees trust NSLF nationwide.

National Security Law Firm: It’s Our Turn to Fight for You.