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The Global Insight

Do I have to show my employer my DD214?

Author

Christopher Ramos

Updated on April 04, 2026

If you apply for a job and request veteran’s preference in hiring, you must provide a copy of your DD-214 in order to prove your service and eligibility for veteran’s preference. The information on your DD-214 is available only to you and cannot be obtained through a background check.

Do you have to tell your employer you were in the military?

Ask HR: Military reserve status does not need to be disclosed to a potential employer.

Do you have to disclose military service on a job application?

Disclosing Military Experience on a Job Application While answering the question is not necessarily required and can be left blank, not disclosing any affiliation could potentially result in legal employment termination if the military affiliation conflicts with employment requirements.

How bad is OTH discharge?

People call them bad paper. An other than honorable discharge is an administrative discharge where your command can essentially kick you out. You sign off on it and say in lieu of court martial, et cetera. It can be for something like failing a drug test, lapses in military good order and discipline.

Is a DD214 public record?

Who’s Entitled to a Copy of a Veteran’s DD214? Limited information from Official Military Personnel Files is releasable to the general public without the consent of the veteran or the next-of-kin.

Can employer ask about military discharge?

According to state and federal equal employment opportunity laws, “It is generally illegal to ask which type of discharge a military veteran received unless it is to ask whether or not an applicant received an honorable or general discharge,” Rosser noted.

Do employers care about military service?

Yes,military service does look good for a number of reasons. One is the patriotism of serving your country. And with the military now being volunteer rather than soldiers being drafted, you’re making the choice to join and defend the nation. Second, is the discipline you gain from serving in the armed forces.

Can an employer ask about your military discharge?

Answer: State and federal Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) laws do not prohibit employers from asking about military discharge types. However, asking a veteran to reveal the nature of their discharge is considered private and not readily available to employers for use during the pre-employment process.

Are you considered a veteran with an OTH?

Other Than Dishonorable Conditions: VA Determinations of Eligibility. Many veterans assume that when they get a less-than-honorable discharge, they are ineligible for benefits. However, veterans with an OTH Discharge or, more rarely, a Bad Conduct Discharge can be deemed eligible for some VA benefits.

Do you need a DD214 to get a job?

Generally, employers will ask those claiming prior military service to provide a copy of their discharge form, DD214. While most employers are not permitted to disqualify applicants for a less than honorable discharge, the DD214 will disclose all of the veteran’s military schools and training, as well awards and commendations.

What can I do with a DD214 discharge form?

Soldiers receive training in areas such as engineering, health care, information technology and security. Generally, employers will ask those claiming prior military service to provide a copy of their discharge form, DD214.

Can a veteran request a DD-214 report?

Military records are not public records. A DD-214 is a report of your separation from military service. It is needed to apply for military benefits, retirement, employment or membership in veteran’s organizations. Only certain information is contained in a DD-214, and it is obtained by contacting the National Archives.

Do you need a service 2 DD214 copy?

Like the Member 4 Copy, the Service 2 Copy contains all of the necessary information to show proof of military service and honorable discharge.