Fill out DD-293 (Application for the Review of Discharge from the Armed Forces of the United States) online
DD Form 293 is the application used to request a review of a military discharge or dismissal from the Armed Forces through the Discharge Review Board (DRB). Former service members who received a discharge characterization they believe is inequitable or improper can use this form to request an upgrade. The DRB can change the characterization of discharge and the reason for discharge, but cannot change a reenlistment eligibility code.
How to fill out DD-293 (Application for the Review of Discharge from the Armed Forces of the United States)
Enter personal and service information
Provide your full name, Social Security number, branch of service, dates of service, grade at discharge, type of discharge received, and current address and contact information.
State the reason for the application
Clearly explain why you believe your discharge was inequitable (unfair compared to the punishment others received for similar offenses) or improper (violated regulations, procedures, or your rights at the time of discharge).
Select review type
Choose whether you want a records-only review (the DRB decides based on your application and military records) or a personal appearance hearing (you present your case in person or via video). A personal hearing generally provides a better opportunity to explain your circumstances.
Gather and attach supporting evidence
Attach evidence supporting your request: post-service employment records, education transcripts, community service, character references, medical or mental health records (especially for PTSD or TBI), and any documentation showing rehabilitation or changed circumstances since discharge.
Sign and submit
Sign and date the application. Mail it with all supporting documents to the Discharge Review Board for your branch. Keep copies of everything. Processing times vary but typically take several months to over a year.
About DD-293 (Application for the Review of Discharge from the Armed Forces of the United States)
Who needs this form
Former members of any branch of the U.S. Armed Forces who received a discharge under other than honorable conditions, a general discharge, or a bad conduct discharge from a special court-martial, and who believe the discharge was inequitable or improper. The application must generally be filed within 15 years of the date of discharge.
Where to submit
Submit to the Discharge Review Board for your branch of service. Army cases go to the Army Review Boards Agency in Washington, D.C. Navy and Marine Corps cases go to the Secretary of the Navy Council of Review Boards. Air Force and Space Force cases go to the Air Force Review Boards Agency.
Source and content freshness
- Reviewed: 2026-02-24
- Filing deadlines may shift for weekends and holidays. Verify due dates with official instructions.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Filing after the 15-year deadline without seeking alternative relief through the Board for Correction of Military Records (DD-149)
- Not providing supporting evidence such as post-service conduct, medical records, or character references
- Failing to clearly explain why the discharge was inequitable or improper
- Not requesting a personal hearing when one could strengthen the case (applicants can choose records-only review or a hearing)
Frequently asked questions
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What is the difference between the Discharge Review Board (DD-293) and the Board for Correction of Military Records (DD-149)?
The Discharge Review Board (DD-293) specifically reviews discharge characterizations and reasons and can upgrade them. It has a 15-year filing window and can grant personal hearings. The Board for Correction of Military Records (DD-149) has broader authority to correct any military record, including but not limited to discharges, and has no firm statute of limitations. If you are past the 15-year window for DD-293 or need corrections beyond just the discharge, use DD-149 instead.
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