The DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty) proves service and discharge status, and the funeral home will need it.
- Find the DD-214 and keep a copy with your planning documents. Tell your family where it is.
- If it is lost, request a free replacement from the National Archives at archives.gov/veterans (or ask your county veterans service officer to help — also free).
Beware of anyone charging for "veteran funeral benefits" — the real benefits come from the VA and are free. Verify anything you are told at va.gov/burials-memorials.