Apply within 15 years of discharge — after 15 years, you must apply to the Board for Correction of Military Records instead

PTSD, TBI, and MST are strong grounds for upgrade under liberal consideration policies

Legal aid organizations like the National Veterans Legal Services Program offer free help with discharge upgrades

Veterans Affairshard

Application for Review of Discharge

DD 293 · DOD

Application for review and upgrade of discharge characterization from the Armed Forces. Can affect eligibility for VA benefits.

Form Details

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Where to Submit This Form

📬

Mail to the appropriate Discharge Review Board

Army: Army Review Boards Agency, 251 18th St S, Arlington, VA 22202. Navy/Marines: Secretary of the Navy, Council of Review Boards, 720 Kennon St SE, Washington Navy Yard, DC 20374. Air Force: SAF/MRBR, 3351 Celmers Lane, Joint Base Andrews, MD 20762.

Required Attachments

📎 DD-214 or discharge documents
📎 Personal statement explaining why the discharge should be upgraded
📎 Supporting evidence: buddy statements, service records, medical records, character references
📎 Any evidence of post-service rehabilitation, employment, community service

Processing Time

6-18 months depending on the branch and complexity. Board review hearings (if requested) may add additional time.

What Happens Next

The Discharge Review Board will review your application. You may request a personal hearing (in-person or video) or a records-only review. If upgraded, a new DD-214 will be issued.

Tips for This Form

✓ Apply within 15 years of discharge — after 15 years, you must apply to the Board for Correction of Military Records instead
✓ PTSD, TBI, and MST are strong grounds for upgrade under liberal consideration policies
✓ Legal aid organizations like the National Veterans Legal Services Program offer free help with discharge upgrades

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Companion form to 21-4142 allowing specific medical professionals to release records to VA for claim processing.

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