How long does a discharge upgrade take?

How Long Will it Take to Get a Decision? It often takes a month and a half to two months to find out the board’s decision. If you get the upgrade, you’ll get a new discharge certificate, DD-214, and a copy of the board’s decision. If you don’t get the upgrade, you’ll get the board’s letter explaining their decision.

How hard is it to upgrade a discharge?

It is very difficult to get a discharge upgrade, so you should submit comprehensive evidence and/or find an attorney to help you submit a complete package. Make sure to request and submit your military records and positive post-service history.

Can you get a OTH discharge changed?

Upgrading your OTH Discharge is possible if you can show the Discharge Review Board or Board for the Correction of Military Records that your OTH Discharge was either improper or unjust.

How much does a discharge upgrade lawyer cost?

For discharge upgrade matters, fees generally range from $2400 to $7200 (for cases that do not involve travel) and $7500 to $12,000 (for cases that require travel). For all other cases, fees depend on time, complexity, and travel requirements. What is the best way to contact you? Use the email form on this page.

Can you get a bad conduct discharge upgrade?

Although a positive post-service history is not necessary to succeed, it’s important if you’re trying to upgrade a punitive discharge—a Bad Conduct, Dishonorable, or other discharge imposed after a court-martial. The only basis for upgrading a punitive discharge is clemency.

Can a less than honorable discharge be upgraded?

As society has changed throughout the years, many actions that were once a guarantee of a dishonorable discharge now are often not applicable reasons for involuntary termination from military service. Therefore, veterans who appeal a less-than-honorable discharge often are successful in having it upgraded.

Who can help with discharge upgrade?

You can apply for a discharge upgrade by mail or with the help of a Veterans Service Organization (VSO).

Can discharge be downgraded?

If you have already been discharged from the military and you are not receiving retirement benefits, there is no mechanism to downgrade your discharge. If you were collecting retirement the only way to “downgrade” your discharge…