DD-214-1: The New Separation Form for Reservists and National Guard Members

Press Release

By Katie McCarthy , VA Claims Insider

10/6/25

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The DD-214 has long been considered the “gold standard” for verifying military service. The form is often required when veterans seek VA benefits, employment, or membership in veterans’ groups. The DD-214-1 (Certificate of Uniformed Service, Reserve Component Addendum) extends the same comprehensive documentation to traditional guardsmen and reservists. 

In a 2022 memo, the Department of Defense gave all reserve components three years to issue a uniform separation form to replace the forms for each individual component.  

In this post, we’ll cover what you need to know about the new form, including what it is, who receives it, and how it might make the lives of retired or separated service members a little bit easier.

Table of Contents

• Summary of Key Points
• What is a DD-214-1?
  • What is a DD-214-1 Used For?
  • What Does Form DD-214-1 Mean for Reservists and Guardsmen?
  • Who Issues the Form DD-214-1?
  • Who Receives a DD-214-1?
• Reservists Preparing to Separate from Service
  • Can Reservists Get VA Disability?
  • Can National Guard Veterans Get VA Disability?
• Conclusion
• About VA Claims Insider
• FAQs | Frequently Asked Questions
  • Is the DD-214-1 just a DD-214 for reservists?
  • Is the DD-214-1 basically a Statement of Service?
  • What is the DD-214-1 for reserves?
  • What is a DD-214-1 used for?
• About the Author

Read the full article here: https://vaclaimsinsider.com/form-dd-214-1-explained/?utm_source=email&utm_medium=ae-weekly-campaign&utm_content=link&utm_campaign=dd-214-1-explained-email-blog-10-6-24&pi_content=76ea8f2c4192cfdbe9dfb7bc94a5725d28a24b9cfbbeeb43ed06665bbff92a87