Use eVetRecs online for the fastest processing — mail requests take significantly longer

If records were destroyed in the 1973 fire, NPRC can attempt reconstruction using alternative sources

Next-of-kin can request records of deceased veterans with proof of death and relationship

Veterans Affairsmoderate

Request for Military Records

SF 180 · National Archives (NPRC)

Request to obtain DD-214, service records, and medical records from military service through the National Personnel Records Center.

Form Details

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Where to Submit This Form

🌐

eVetRecs (recommended)

https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records

Request military records online through the National Archives.

📬

Mail to National Personnel Records Center

National Personnel Records Center 1 Archives Drive St. Louis, MO 63138

📠

Fax to NPRC

Fax: 314-801-9195

Required Attachments

📎 Proof of identity (copy of government-issued photo ID)
📎 Signature of the veteran or next-of-kin (if veteran is deceased, proof of death and relationship)

Processing Time

10-20 business days for online requests. Mailed requests may take 3-6 months. Requests involving records damaged in the 1973 fire may take longer.

What Happens Next

NPRC will mail the requested records or a letter explaining any limitations. Some records may have been destroyed in the 1973 NPRC fire.

Tips for This Form

✓ Use eVetRecs online for the fastest processing — mail requests take significantly longer
✓ If records were destroyed in the 1973 fire, NPRC can attempt reconstruction using alternative sources
✓ Next-of-kin can request records of deceased veterans with proof of death and relationship

More Veterans Affairs Forms

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VA 10-10EZ · VA

Application for VA health benefits. Requires military service history, current insurance, income/assets, and toxic exposure history.

VA Health Benefits Update

VA 10-10EZR · VA

Health Benefits Update Form for veterans already enrolled in VA health care who need to update personal, insurance, financial, or military service information.

VA Disability Compensation Application

VA 21-526EZ · VA

Application for disability compensation and related benefits for service-connected conditions. Requires linking conditions to military service.

Intent to File a Claim

VA 21-0966 · VA

Preserves the effective date for a VA benefits claim while gathering evidence. Provides 1 year to submit the formal claim.

Authorization to Release Information to VA

VA 21-4142 · VA

Authorization and consent allowing VA to obtain private medical records from non-VA providers for disability claim adjudication.

General Release for Medical Provider Information

VA 21-4142a · VA

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

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Disclaimer: BeneFill™ provides form-filling assistance and informational guidance only. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the National Archives (NPRC) or any government agency. The information provided is for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal, medical, financial, or tax advice. Always verify form requirements and submission details directly with the issuing agency.