Whether or not the servicemember has served on active duty or is a current or discharged member of the Reserves or Guard will determine which documents are required.
Current Member of the Reserves or Guard with Active Duty Time Served
Reservists and Guardsmen who have served on active duty for 90 days during wartime or 181 days during peacetime will need to provide a copy of their DD214 covering the active duty time and showing the reason for separation.
Current Member of the Reserves or Guard With No Active Duty Time Served
For individuals who have never been called to active duty or their active duty time is less than 90 days during wartime or less than 181 days during peacetime, will need to supply the VA with a copy of a Statement of Service signed by (or by the direction of) the adjutant, personnel officer or commander of your unit. The document must contain all of the following:
- Servicemember's Full Name.
- Servicemember's Social Security Number.
- Date of Birth
- Entry Date of Duty
- Total Number of Creditable Years of Service (Applicants need a minimum of six years if they haven't served on active duty, or their active duty time is less than the time specified above.)
- Duration of Lost Time
- Name of the Command Providing the Information
Honorably discharged members of the National Guard who did not serve on active duty must produce copies of their NGB Form 22 (Report of Separation and Record of Service) for each period of National Guard service or NGB Form 23 (Retirement Points Accounting) and a proof of the character of service.
Discharged Member of the Reserves With No Active Duty Time Served
Honorably discharged Reservists who did not serve on active duty must send copies of their latest annual retirement points statement and a copy of their discharge certificate.
After you've gathered the required documents and made copies (never send originals!) the next step is applying for your Certificate of Eligibility.
