Discharge Upgrade
Fix your discharge. Get your records.
An Other Than Honorable, general or bad-paper discharge can block VA care and benefits. Many veterans — especially those with PTSD, TBI or military sexual trauma — can get it upgraded, for free.
You may have a strong case if…
- PTSD, TBI, MST or another mental health condition played a part in what led to your discharge.
- You were discharged under "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" or a similar policy.
- Something about your discharge was unfair or the paperwork is wrong.
Boards must give "liberal consideration" to mental health conditions (the Hagel, Kurta and Wilkie memos). You don't need a diagnosis from your time in service.
Quick check: where do I apply?
Two questions. Your answers stay on this screen and are never saved.
1. How long ago were you discharged?
2. Was your discharge from a general court-martial, or a medical retirement issue?
- Get your DD-214 & recordsReplace lost discharge papers and service records — free.
- Which board do I apply to?Discharge Review Board vs. Board for Correction, and the forms.
- Free legal helpNonprofit lawyers who help with upgrades at no cost.
You can get VA help even before an upgrade
Veterans with an OTH discharge can get mental health crisis care at VA. Call 988, press 1 anytime.
More ways we can help
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- Discharge Upgrade & DD-214Fix an OTH or general discharge and get your records.
- VA Disability CalculatorSee how VA combines your ratings — nothing is saved.
- Jobs & Career HubSkillBridge, federal jobs, mentors and free certifications.