Most veterans' benefits require that applicants provide a copy of their Form DD-214 or discharge record, which is evidence of their veteran status. This is an important document and must be safeguarded.

If you have a copy of your DD-214 it is recommended that it be recorded in your county courthouse; or at the very least be sure to keep it in a safe place and inform a family member or trusted individual of its location.

If you do not have a copy of your DD-214, you may contact your County Veterans Service Officer for assistance in obtaining it.

The Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs maintains discharges for the following veterans:

• Minnesota WWII veterans who applied for the state bonus
• Minnesota Korean veterans who applied for the state bonus
• Minnesota Vietnam veterans who applied for the state bonus

Veterans who were discharged from active duty after 1980 and requested that a copy of the DD-214 be sent to the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs

If you fall into one of these categories, and would like to request a copy of your DD-214, call the receptionist at 651-296-2562.

You may also request your DD-214 from the National Personnel Records Center via two methods:

• Standard Form 180 (SF-180)
• Electronically via eVetRecs.

NOTE: To use eVetRecs you must either be the military veteran or the next of kin of a deceased former member of the military. The next of kin can be any of the following: surviving spouse that has not remarried, father, mother, son, daughter, sister, or brother

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