📘 Understanding the DD214 Copy Types
Veterans are often told they need the Member 4 Copy of their DD214 to access benefits, apply for VA loans, or verify military service. But here’s the truth: you don’t need the Member 4 Copy specifically—and that confusion often causes unnecessary delays.
Let’s break down all 8 copies of the DD214 form and explain which ones are valid for official use—and how to request them if yours is missing.
🔍 What Is a DD214 Member 4 Copy?
The Member 4 Copy is commonly referred to as:
- The long-form DD214
- The unedited or undeleted version
- The version issued to the service member at discharge
It includes key information not found in the Member 1 Copy, such as:
- Character of service (e.g., honorable, general)
- Separation reason
- Separation and reenlistment codes
- Legal authority for discharge
📜 What Are the 8 Copies of the DD214?
All DD214s (except the short-form Member 1 Copy) are legally identical and include full discharge details. Here’s how they are distributed:
| Copy Number | Recipient |
|---|---|
| Member 1 | Service Member (short form) |
| Member 2 | Service Personnel File |
| Member 3 | U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs |
| Member 4 | Service Member (if requested in Block 30) |
| Member 5 | U.S. Department of Labor |
| Member 6 | State Director of Veterans Affairs |
| Member 7 & 8 | Per Military Department instructions |
💡 Note: Member 4 and Member 1 are typically given to the service member at discharge and not stored by the military. If lost, you’ll usually receive a Service 2, 7, or 8 Copy as a replacement.
🤔 What If I Lost My Member 4 Copy?
It happens—and it’s not a problem.
The military does not reissue the Member 4 Copy, but they do retain long-form duplicates (Service 2 through 8). These versions include all the same information as the Member 4 and are legally valid for:
- VA benefits
- Home loans
- Burial honors
- Employment verification
✅ When you request your DD214 from DD214Easy.com, we locate and deliver a certified long-form DD214—usually a Service 2 or Service 7 Copy.
❗ What Is the DD214 Short Form (Deleted Copy)?
The Member 1 Copy is often called the:
- Short form
- Deleted form
It omits critical information such as:
- Type of discharge
- Separation reason
- Reenlistment code
Technically, it’s a “redacted” version created by simply omitting the bottom 1.5 inches of the long form. Employers or agencies familiar with military documents often view short-form submissions as a red flag.
🛑 Warning: Submitting a short form when a long form is expected may lead others to assume you’re hiding something. Always use a long-form DD214 when possible.
You might be interested in learning more about military discharges and their significance, especially since different DD214 copies can contain varying levels of detail depending on the discharge type. Understanding the differences between service benefits and how military records are maintained can also be helpful when navigating the process of requesting or verifying your documents. Additionally, if you’re curious about the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and its role in veteran services and benefits, exploring their functions can provide valuable insight into how your military records support your eligibility for various programs.
