Most veterans receive honorable discharges, which allow access to the full range of benefits available to former service members.
However, others receive an Other Than Honorable (OTH) discharge, which can limit or deny their access to many veteran benefits, including healthcare, education and housing assistance. But what happens if a veteran with an OTH discharge seeks a change?
What steps can you take?
The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) has established a Discharge Review Board (DRB) specifically to review requests for discharge upgrades. Veterans must apply for an upgrade through the branch of the military in which they served.
Generally, a DRB can review discharges issued within the past 15 years, but veterans with older discharges may apply for a correction through the Board for Correction of Military Records (BCMR). Affected veterans should assemble any relevant records that support their case, including:
- Service records
- Medical documents
- Statements from commanders
- Personal letters of support
Documentation that explains mental health conditions, personal challenges or discrimination during service can help strengthen the case.
While the discharge upgrade process is available, it’s important to recognize that not every request is successful. The DRB approves upgrades only when there is compelling evidence that the discharge was improper or inequitable. Mental health issues, particularly PTSD or traumatic brain injury (TBI), have proven to be influential in some cases, especially if it’s demonstrated that the veteran’s behavior resulted from undiagnosed mental health challenges.
For veterans with an Other Than Honorable discharge, seeking an upgrade offers a chance at a fresh start, providing access to benefits and opportunities that can positively impact their lives. However, the process can be complex and is not guaranteed to result in an upgrade. Veterans interested in pursuing a discharge upgrade should consider seeking dependable legal support to improve their chances of success.