Summary
By digitizing military records, a veteran can use the digital organization to access, retrieve and securely access important documents regardless of location or device.
National Guard Officer in Office Setting Using Computer
After serving our nation, veterans may qualify for a broad range of benefits. However, benefits may not be accessible without completing various applications with proof of military service. The Official Military Personnel File (OMPF) includes documents relating to almost every service aspect. Military personnel records mainly consist of administrative records. They can contain information such as enlistment/appointment, duty stations and assignments, training, qualifications, performance, awards, medals and separation/discharge/retirement, DD Form 214 (also known as a DD-214), Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, or an NGB Form 22 (as known as an NGB-22), Report of Separation and Record of Service. No one can predict when an unexpected natural disaster like a flood or a house fire will strike. Losing these valuable documents can be a veteran’s worst nightmare. Didlake Imaging has learned critical information from veterans about preserving military records, particularly why digitizing them is crucial.
1. Missing Military Records Can Add to the Delay of Benefits
Digitalizing military records can keep them securely stored in a cloud, organized and ready to be used when needed. It has been a complaint that veteran benefits can get delayed for quite some time. For example, the Veteran’s Administration is taking 102+ days to process disability benefits, a vast improvement over delays during the height of the COVID pandemic. One of the many reasons for the delay in receiving VA Benefits is the “complexity of the claim.” Hence, an application must be well organized and contain and label all the necessary documents. Each type of benefit has different forms and information sought, and managing each application will help to move the decision process for the benefit. If the veteran or their family loses military records, obtaining copies is lengthy. A veteran must determine whether the document is with the Department of Defense or the National Archives and then submit a proper application, including accurate service dates, to get the records. Only some veterans or family members know the exact dates of service with a DD214 or other separation documents, which can delay getting the records even further.
2. Having Military Records is Important to Apply for Benefits
Without a veteran’s military service record, it would be challenging to determine what benefits the veteran or eligible family member may be entitled to. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, “The best way to file for disability compensation is to apply online at www.va.gov/disability.” The VA also stated that “when you file a disability claim, you can provide evidence to support your claim. Evidence could include: VA medical records and hospital records that relate to your claimed condition or that show your rated disability has gotten worse. Private medical records and hospital reports that relate to your claimed condition or that show your disability has gotten worse. The supporting statements from family, friends, coworkers, clergy, or law enforcement personnel with knowledge about how and when your disability happened or how it got worse”. Health, housing, disability, training, education, and other services require specific military documents get submitted with the application. By digitizing military records, a veteran can use the digital organization to access, retrieve and securely access important documents regardless of location or device.
3. Electronic Applications Require Digital Copies of Documents
While the VA does allow you to mail in your physical documents for benefits, this can add to the wait time. Applying online can be quicker and easier once your files are digitized. When a veteran or family member seeks multiple benefits, the utility of being able to file an electronic application that repeatedly uses duplicate records is even more apparent. The transformation of forms through digital organization saves space and the environment. Still, for veterans, it also offers the opportunity to quickly and easily make an organized electronic application for benefits. Contact Didlake Imaging to learn more.
