Veteran roadmap
Request Military and Medical Records
Identify the record you need, use the correct official request path, and track the response.
Who this is for: Veterans, next of kin, and authorized requesters looking for military or VA records.
Your step-by-step roadmap
Name the record and reason
Separate service personnel records, service treatment records, discharge documents, VA medical records, and private medical records; each may have a different custodian.
Request military service records
The National Archives explains available request methods and who may request records.
Request military service records (opens official external site)Get VA health records
Use VA's official health-record access options. Do not send health records through ordinary email unless an authorized secure process directs you to do so.
Get VA medical records (opens official external site)Track requests
Keep the request date, method, confirmation, expected response, and follow-up date.
Escalate corrections appropriately
Record-correction procedures depend on the record and agency. Use the agency's official process or qualified assistance.
Controlling official sources
Links last verified August 30, 2026. Official agencies control eligibility, requirements, deadlines, and program availability.