Your DD-214 is the most important document you'll receive on separation. It proves your service, unlocks your benefits, and follows you for the rest of your life. Here's what every block means — and what to do if something is wrong.
Block 1–6: Who you are
The first blocks cover your name, Social Security number (last four only on some versions), date of birth, place of entry, and home of record at time of entry. Errors here are common for service members with hyphenated names or who moved during service.
Block 24: Character of discharge
This is arguably the most important block. An Honorable discharge opens every federal benefit door. General (Under Honorable Conditions) preserves most benefits but closes some. Other Than Honorable (OTH), Bad Conduct, and Dishonorable discharges have significant implications.
Block 28: Narrative reason for separation
This tells future employers and the VA why you left. "Expiration Term of Service" is the cleanest. Some codes carry implications that can affect employment or benefits — and many can be upgraded through the Discharge Review Board process.
