Granted Access: Control Transferred
For individuals who are next of kin to a deceased veteran and wish to access their military records, this article provides a step-by-step guide on how to complete the necessary authorization forms.
1. **Understanding the Form**
The standard form for requesting military service records is the Standard Form (SF) 180, Request Pertaining to Military Records. For Veterans Affairs (VA) documents, you might use the VA Form 21-4142, Authorization for Release of Information.
2. **Required Information**
The form requires you to provide your full name, address, and contact details, as well as your relationship to the veteran (e.g., spouse, child, parent). You'll also need to provide the veteran's full name, Social Security number or service number, branch of service, and dates of service. Indicate which records you are requesting, such as the DD Form 214 or medical records.
3. **Signing and Dating**
Sign the form in the presence of a notary if required. This confirms your consent to release the records. Include the date you signed the form.
4. **Additional Documentation**
If you are the next of kin, you may need to provide documentation proving your relationship, such as a birth or marriage certificate. A death certificate may be required if the veteran is deceased.
5. **Submission**
Check if the form can be submitted online via platforms like eVetRecs for military records. If not, send the completed form with supporting documents to the appropriate address, such as the National Archives or the VA.
6. **Special Considerations for Next of Kin**
Ensure you have the legal right to access the veteran's records. Next of kin can usually access records after providing proof of death and relationship. Be prepared to provide additional documentation if requested by the processing agency.
Acceptable proof of death for a next of kin also includes a published obituary, a letter from the funeral home, or other documents deemed suitable by the processing agency. Authorizations are valid for one year from the date of signature.
By following these steps, you can ensure that the authorization form is properly filled out and submitted for the release of military records.
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