As a veteran, receiving a discharge status that is less than honorable can have severe consequences. It can affect your eligibility for VA benefits, employment opportunities, and even your ability to obtain a security clearance. However, many veterans may not realize that it is possible to upgrade their discharge status through a review process.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explain the different types of military discharges, the reasons why a veteran may want to upgrade their discharge status, and the steps involved in the discharge review process. We will also cover common issues that arise during the review process and provide tips on how to navigate them.
Types of Military Discharges
Before we dive into the discharge review process, it's essential to understand the different types of military discharges. There are five types of discharges that a service member can receive, each with its own implications.
Honorable Discharge
An honorable discharge is the most favorable type of discharge that a service member can receive. It is awarded to those who have served honorably, fulfilled their obligations, and met or exceeded the military's standards for performance and conduct. Those who receive an honorable discharge are entitled to full VA benefits and employment opportunities.
General Discharge Under Honorable Conditions
A general discharge under honorable conditions is a less favorable discharge than an honorable discharge. It is typically awarded to those who have not met all of the military's standards for performance and conduct but have not committed any serious misconduct. Those who receive a general discharge under honorable conditions are still entitled to some VA benefits, but may be barred from certain employment opportunities.
Other Than Honorable Discharge
An other than honorable discharge is a more severe type of discharge that is typically awarded to those who have engaged in serious misconduct, such as drug abuse, insubordination, or theft. Those who receive an other than honorable discharge are not entitled to most VA benefits and may be barred from many employment opportunities.
Bad Conduct Discharge
A bad conduct discharge is awarded by a court-martial and is typically the result of serious misconduct, such as assault or desertion. Those who receive a bad conduct discharge are not entitled to most VA benefits and may be barred from many employment opportunities.
Dishonorable Discharge
A dishonorable discharge is the most severe type of discharge that a service member can receive. It is typically awarded by a court-martial and is the result of serious misconduct, such as murder or espionage. Those who receive a dishonorable discharge are not entitled to any VA benefits and are typically barred from all employment opportunities.
Why Upgrade Your Discharge Status?
There are several reasons why a veteran may want to upgrade their discharge status. First and foremost, upgrading your discharge status can significantly impact your eligibility for VA benefits. If you have an other than honorable discharge, for example, you may not be entitled to most VA benefits, including healthcare, disability compensation, and education benefits. By upgrading your discharge status, you may be eligible for these benefits and more.
Additionally, upgrading your discharge status can improve your employment prospects. Many employers require a certain type of discharge status for certain positions, and having a less than honorable discharge can significantly limit your job opportunities. By upgrading your discharge status, you may be eligible for a wider range of employment opportunities.
Finally, upgrading your discharge status can help you obtain a security clearance. Many government jobs and contracts require a security clearance, and having a less than honorable discharge can be a significant barrier to obtaining one. By upgrading your discharge status, you may be able to obtain a security clearance and access more job opportunities.
Discharge Review Process
If you are a veteran who wants to upgrade your discharge status, contact our office for assistance.
