How can veterans confirm their military service for VA benefits?

Veterans can confirm their military service for VA benefits by providing a copy of their DD Form 214. This document is commonly known as the Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, and it serves as the official record of a service member’s military history, including their dates of service, discharge status, and the character of their service. It is an essential document when applying for VA benefits because it provides proof of eligibility based on the veteran's time in service.

Other methods of verification exist, such as online portals or military ID, but the DD Form 214 is the standardized documentation required by the VA to substantiate claims for benefits effectively. Using a letter from a commanding officer may be helpful in some situations, but it does not replace the need for the DD Form 214 as the authoritative proof of service.