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Blank DD 93 PDF Template

The DD 93 form, officially known as the "Record of Emergency Data," serves as a critical document for military personnel. It ensures that in the event of an emergency, the right contacts are notified promptly and accurately. To secure peace of mind for both service members and their families, clicking the button below to fill out the form is essential.

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When service members in the United States Armed Forces face the reality of deployment, several administrative tasks demand their attention, one of which is the completion of the DD Form 93, or "Record of Emergency Data." This crucial document serves multiple purposes; it is not merely a formality but a significant part of a service member's duty to ensure their loved ones are taken care of in times of emergency or, unfortunately, in the event of a casualty. By providing up-to-date contact information for next-of-kin, detailing benefits disposition, and specifying insurance beneficiaries, the DD Form 93 acts as a safeguard, ensuring that, should the unthinkable happen, the military can make immediate and informed decisions respecting the wishes of the service member. The process of completing and updating the DD Form 93 is underscored by its critical role in military readiness and family welfare, making it more than just paperwork; it's a vital responsibility undertaken by those who serve.

Preview - DD 93 Form

RECORD OF EMERGENCY DATA

PRIVACY ACT STATEMENT

AUTHORITY: 5 USC 552, 10 USC 655, 1475 to 1480 and 2771, 38 USC 1970, 44 USC 3101, and EO 9397 (SSN).

PRINCIPAL PURPOSES: This form is used by military personnel and Department of Defense civilian and contractor personnel, collectively referred to as civilians, when applicable. For military personnel, it is used to designate beneficiaries for certain benefits in the event of the Service member's death. It is also a guide for disposition of that member's pay and allowances if captured, missing or interned. It also shows names and addresses of the person(s) the Service member desires to be notified in case of emergency or death. For civilian personnel, it is used to expedite the notification process in the event of an emergency and/or the death of the member. The purpose of soliciting the SSN is to provide positive identification. All items may not be applicable.

ROUTINE USES: None.

DISCLOSURE: Voluntary; however, failure to provide accurate personal identifier information and other solicited information will delay notification and the processing of benefits to designated beneficiaries if applicable.

INSTRUCTIONS TO SERVICE MEMBER

This extremely important form is to be used by you to show the names and addresses of your spouse, children, parents, and any other person(s) you would like notified if you become a casualty (other family members or fiance), and, to designate beneficiaries for certain benefits if you die. IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY to keep your Record of Emergency Data up to date to show your desires as to beneficiaries to receive certain death payments, and to show changes in your family or other personnel listed, for example, as a result of marriage, civil court action, death, or address change.

INSTRUCTIONS TO CIVILIANS

This extremely important form is to be used by you to show the names and addresses of your spouse, children, parents, and any other person(s) you would like notified if you become a casualty.

Not every item on this form is applicable to you. This form is used by the Department of Defense (DoD) to expedite notification in the case of emergencies or death. It does not have a legal impact on other forms you may have completed with the DoD or your employer.

IMPORTANT: This form is divided into two sections: Section 1 - Emergency Contact Information and Section 2 - Benefits Related Information. READ THE INSTRUCTIONS ON PAGES 3 AND 4 BEFORE COMPLETING THIS FORM.

	SECTION 1 - EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION

1. NAME (Last, First, Middle Initial)		2. SSN

3a. SERVICE/CIVILIAN CATEGORY

ARMY

NAVY

MARINE CORPS

AIR FORCE

DoD

CIVILIAN

CONTRACTOR

b. REPORTING UNIT CODE/DUTY STATION

4a. SPOUSE NAME (If applicable) (Last, First, Middle Initial)			b. ADDRESS (Include ZIP Code) AND TELEPHONE NUMBER

SINGLE	DIVORCED	WIDOWED

5. CHILDREN		b. RELATIONSHIP	c. DATE OF BIRTH	d. ADDRESS (Include ZIP Code) AND TELEPHONE NUMBER
a. NAME (Last, First, Middle Initial)		b. RELATIONSHIP	(YYYYMMDD)	d. ADDRESS (Include ZIP Code) AND TELEPHONE NUMBER
a. NAME (Last, First, Middle Initial)			(YYYYMMDD)

6a. FATHER NAME (Last, First, Middle Initial)	b. ADDRESS (Include ZIP Code) AND TELEPHONE NUMBER

7a. MOTHER NAME (Last, First, Middle Initial)	b. ADDRESS (Include ZIP Code) AND TELEPHONE NUMBER

8a. DO NOT NOTIFY DUE TO ILL HEALTH	b. NOTIFY INSTEAD

9a. DESIGNATED PERSON(S) (Military only)		b. ADDRESS (Include ZIP Code) AND TELEPHONE NUMBER

10. CONTRACTING AGENCY AND TELEPHONE NUMBER (Contractors only)

DD FORM 93, JAN 2008

PREVIOUS EDITION IS OBSOLETE.

Adobe Professional X

SECTION 2 - BENEFITS RELATED INFORMATION

11a. BENEFICIARY(IES) FOR DEATH GRATUITY	b. RELATIONSHIP	c. ADDRESS (Include ZIP Code) AND TELEPHONE NUMBER	d. PERCENTAGE
(Military only)

12a. BENEFICIARY(IES) FOR UNPAID PAY/ALLOWANCES		b. ADDRESS (Include ZIP Code) AND TELEPHONE NUMBER	c. PERCENTAGE
(Military only) NAME AND RELATIONSHIP

13a. PERSON AUTHORIZED TO DIRECT DISPOSITION (PADD)		b. ADDRESS (Include ZIP Code) AND TELEPHONE NUMBER
(Military only) NAME AND RELATIONSHIP

14. CONTINUATION/REMARKS

15.SIGNATURE OF SERVICE MEMBER/CIVILIAN (Include rank, rate, or grade if applicable)

16.SIGNATURE OF WITNESS (Include rank, rate, or grade as appropriate)

17.DATE SIGNED

(YYYYMMDD)

DD FORM 93 (BACK), JAN 2008

INSTRUCTIONS FOR PREPARING DD FORM 93

(See appropriate Service Directives for supplemental instructions for completion of this form at other than MEPS)

All entries explained below are for electronic or typewriter completion, except those specifically noted. If a computer or typewriter is not available, print in black or blue-black ink insuring a legible image on all copies. Include "Jr.," "Sr.," "III" or similar designation for each name, if applicable. When an address is entered, include the appropriate ZIP Code. If the member cannot provide a current address, indicate "unknown" in the appropriate item. Addresses shown as P.O. Box Numbers or RFD numbers should indicate in Item 14, "Continuations/Remarks", a street address or general guidance to reach the place of residence. In addition, the notation "See Item 14" should be included in the item pertaining to the particular next of kin or when the space for a particular item is insufficient. If the address for the person in the item has been shown in a preceding item, it is unnecessary to repeat the address; however, the name must be entered. Those items that are considered not applicable to civilians will be left blank.

ITEM 1. Enter full last name, first name, and middle initial.

ITEM 2. Enter social security number (SSN).

ITEM 3a. Service. Military: Mark X in appropriate block.

Civilian: Mark two blocks as appropriate. Examples: an Army civilian would mark Army and either Civilian or Contractor; a DoD civilian, without affiliation to one of the Military Services, would mark DoD and then either Civilian or Contractor as appropriate.

ITEM 3b. Reporting Unit Code/Duty Station. See Service Directives.

ITEM 4a. Spouse Name. Enter last name (if different from Item 1), first name and middle initial on the line provided. If single, divorced, or widowed, mark appropriate block.

ITEM 4b. Address and Telephone Number. Enter the "actual" address and telephone number, not the mailing address. Include civilian title or military rank and service if applicable. If one of the blocks in 4a is marked, leave blank.

ITEM 5a-d. Children. Enter last name (only if different from Item 1) first name and middle initial, relationship, and date of birth of all children. If none, so state. Include illegitimate children if acknowledged by member or paternity/maternity has been judicially decreed. Relationship examples: son, daughter, stepson or daughter, adopted son or daughter or ward. Date of birth example: 19950704. For children not living with the member's current spouse, include address and name and relationship of person with whom residing in item 5d.

ITEM 6a. Father Name. Last name, first name and middle initial.

ITEM 6b. Address and Telephone Number of Father. If unknown or deceased, so state. Include civilian title or military rank and service if applicable. If other than natural father is listed, indicate relationship.

ITEM 7a. Mother Name. Last name, first name and middle initial.

ITEM 7b. Address and Telephone Number of Mother. If unknown or deceased, so state. Include civilian title or military rank and service if applicable. If other than natural mother is listed, indicate relationship.

ITEM 8. Persons Not to be Notified Due to Ill Health.

a.List relationship, e.g., "Mother," of person(s) listed in Items 4, 5, 6, or 7 who are not to be notified of a casualty due to ill health. If more than one child, specify, e.g., "daughter Susan." Otherwise, enter "None".

b.List relationship, e.g., "Father" or name and address of person(s) to be notified in lieu of person(s) listed in item 8a. If "None" is entered in Item 8a, leave blank.

ITEM 9a. This item will be used to record the name of the person or persons, if any, other than the member's primary next of kin or immediate family, to whom information on the whereabouts and status of the member shall be provided if the member is placed in a missing status. Reference 10 USC, Section 655. NOT APPLICABLE to civilians.

ITEM 9b. Address and telephone number of Designated Person(s). NOT APPLICABLE to civilians.

ITEM 10. Contracting Agency and Telephone Number

(Contractors only). NOT APPLICABLE to military personnel. Civilian contractors will provide the name of their contracting agency and its telephone number. Example: XYZ Electric, (703) 555-5689. The telephone number should be to the company or corporation's personnel or human resources office.

ITEM 11a. Beneficiary(ies) for Death Gratuity (Military only). Enter first name(s), middle initial, and last name(s) of the person(s) to receive death gratuity pay. A member may designate one or more persons to receive all or a portion of the death gratuity pay. The designation of a person to receive a portion of the amount shall indicate the percentage of the amount, to be specified only in 10 percent increments, that the person may receive. If the member does not wish to designate a beneficiary for the payment of death gratuity, enter "None," or if the full amount is not designated, the payment or balance will be paid as follows:

(1)To the surviving spouse of the person, if any;

(2)To any surviving children of the person and the descendants of any deceased children by representation;

(3)To the surviving parents or the survivor of them;

(4)To the duly appointed executor or administrator of the estate of the person;

(5)If there are none of the above, to other next of kin of the person entitled under the laws of domicile of the person at the time of the person's death.

The member should make specific designations, as it expedites payment.

DD FORM 93 (INSTRUCTIONS), JAN 2008

INSTRUCTIONS FOR PREPARING DD FORM 93

(Continued)

ITEM 11a. (Continued) Seek legal advice if naming a minor child as a beneficiary. If a member has a spouse but designates a person other than the spouse to receive all or a portion of the death gratuity pay, the Service concerned is required to provide notice of the designation to the spouse.

NOT APPLICABLE to civilians.

Item 11b. Relationship. NOT APPLICABLE to civilians.

ITEM 11c. Enter beneficiary(ies) full mailing address and telephone number to include the ZIP Code. NOT

APPLICABLE to civilians.

ITEM 11d. Show the percentage to be paid to each person. Enter 10%, 20%, 30%, up to 100% as appropriate. The sum shares must equal 100 percent. If no percent is indicated and more than one person is named, the money is paid in equal shares to the persons named. NOT APPLICABLE to

civilians.

ITEM 12a. Beneficiary(ies) for Unpaid Pay/Allowance (Military only). Enter first name(s), middle initial, last name(s) and relationship of person to receive unpaid pay and allowances at the time of death. The member may indicate anyone to receive this payment. If the member designated two or more beneficiaries, state the percentage to be paid each in item 10c. If the member does not wish to designate a beneficiary, enter "By Law." The member is urged to designate a beneficiary for unpaid pay and allowances as payment will be made to the person in order of precedence by law (10 USC 2771) in the absence of a designation. Seek legal advice if naming a minor child as beneficiary. NOT APPLICABLE to civilians.

ITEM 12b. Enter beneficiary(ies) full mailing address and telephone number to include the ZIP Code. NOT

APPLICABLE to civilians.

ITEM 12c. If the member designated two or more beneficiaries, state the percentage to be paid each in this section. The sum shares must equal 100 percent. NOT

APPLICABLE to civilians.

ITEM 13a. Enter the name and relationship of the Person Authorized to Direct Disposition (PADD) of your remains should you become a casualty. Only the following persons may be named as a PADD: surviving spouse, blood relative of legal age, or adoptive relatives of the decedent. If neither of these three can be found, a person standing in loco parentis may be named. NOT APPLICABLE to civilians.

ITEM 13b. Address and telephone number of PADD. NOT

APPLICABLE to civilians.

ITEM 14. Continuations/Remarks. Use this item for remarks or continuation of other items, if necessary. Prefix entry with the number of the item being continued; for example, 5/John J./son/ 19851220/321 Pecan Drive, Schertz TX 78151. Also use this item to list name, address, and relationship of other persons the member desires to be notified. Other dependents may also be listed. This block offers the greatest amount of flexibility for the member to record other important information not otherwise requested but considered extremely useful in the casualty notification and assistance process. Besides continuing information from other blocks on this form, the member may desire to include additional information such as: NOK language barriers, location or existence of a Will, additional private insurance information, other family member contact numbers, etc. If additional space is required, attach a supplemental sheet of standard bond paper with the information.

ITEM 15. Signature of Service Member/Civilian. Check and verify all entries and sign all copies in ink as follows: First name, middle initial, last name. Include rank, rate, or grade if applicable. May be electronically signed (see DoD Instruction 1300.18 for guidelines).

ITEM 16. Signature of Witness. Have a witness (disinterested person) sign all copies in ink as follows: First name, middle initial, last name. Include rank, rate, or grade as appropriate. A witness signature is not required for electronic versions of the DD Form 93 (see DoD Instruction 1300.18).

ITEM 17. Date the member or civilian signs the form. This item is an ink entry and must be completed on all copies.

DD FORM 93 (INSTRUCTIONS) (BACK), JAN 2008

Download DD 93 PDF Form

Form Data

Fact Number	Detail
1	Form DD 93, Record of Emergency Data, is used by the Department of Defense.
2	Its primary purpose is to designate beneficiaries for certain benefits in the event of the servicemember's death.
3	The form is required to be completed by all military personnel.
4	Information filled out includes contact information for next-of-kin, designation of beneficiaries for death gratuity, and unpaid pay and allowances.
5	DD 93 is updated periodically to reflect any changes in the servicemember's personal contact information or beneficiary designations.
6	The accuracy of the information on the DD 93 is crucial for ensuring benefits are properly distributed in a timely manner.
7	There are no state-specific versions of Form DD 93; it is a federal form used across all military branches.

Instructions on Utilizing DD 93

Filling out a DD 93 form requires attention to detail and accuracy. This document plays a crucial role in ensuring that, in times of emergency, the correct individuals are contacted and certain benefits are directed appropriately. Before beginning the form, gather all necessary personal information, including full names, addresses, social security numbers, and contact information of all individuals to be listed. Follow the outlined steps carefully to complete the form correctly.

Start by entering the service member's full legal name, social security number, and date of birth in the designated fields at the top of the form.
Proceed to fill in the service member's military branch, rank, and unit information accurately to ensure proper identification and record-keeping.
In the section marked for beneficiary information, list the full legal names, addresses, telephone numbers, and their relationship to the service member for each designated person.
For sections asking about the preferred person to be notified in case of emergency, casualty, and the receipt of death gratuity, carefully read the instructions for each category. Enter the corresponding individual's information as per your preference and their eligibility.
Include specific instructions for the disposition of remains in the designated area, ensuring to detail any pre-made arrangements or specific wishes you may have for burial or memorial services.
Review all sections for accuracy, completeness, and clarity. Ensure that there are no contradictions in the information provided, especially in the sections detailing emergency contacts and beneficiaries.
Sign and date the form in the presence of a witness, who must also sign and date the form to validate it. According to regulations, the witness cannot be one of the beneficiaries listed on the form.
Submit the completed DD 93 form to the designated department or office as instructed by your military branch's procedures. Keep a copy for your records and inform your listed contacts about their designation in the document.

It's imperative to note that the DD 93 form can be updated at any time to reflect changes in personal circumstances, relationships, or preferences. Service members are encouraged to review and, if necessary, update their DD 93 regularly or after significant life events. This proactive approach ensures that all information remains current and accurate, providing peace of mind for both the service member and their loved ones.

Obtain Answers on DD 93

What is a DD 93 form?

The DD 93 form, officially known as the "Record of Emergency Data," is a document used by the United States Department of Defense. It is filled out by service members to designate beneficiaries for various entitlements in the event of the service member's death. This includes details on who should be notified immediately, who will receive the death gratuity, unpaid pay and allowances, and who is designated to direct disposition of remains.
Who needs to fill out the DD 93 form?

All active duty and reserve members of the United States Armed Forces are required to complete the DD 93 form. This ensures that, in the case of an emergency or death, the military knows who to contact and how to distribute any entitled benefits appropriately.
When should the DD 93 form be updated?

The DD 93 form should be updated regularly, especially after major life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or a change in next of kin. Service members are advised to review and update their form annually to ensure all information remains current and accurate.
How can a service member complete or update the DD 93 form?

Service members can complete or update their DD 93 form through their unit's personnel office or by accessing the appropriate Department of Defense online system that manages personnel records. Assistance in filling out the form correctly is also usually provided by the personnel office.
What information is required on the DD 93 form?

The DD 93 form requires the service member’s full name, Social Security number, designation of principal and alternate next of kin, contact information for those individuals, beneficiaries for the death gratuity and unpaid pay, and the designated person authorized to direct disposition of remains. It’s essential to provide clear and accurate information to ensure wishes are honored.
Can a service member choose anyone to be a beneficiary?

Yes, service members have the freedom to choose anyone as a beneficiary for the death gratuity and unpaid pay. However, for the designated person authorized to direct disposition of remains, there are more specific stipulations and regulations that must be followed according to military guidelines.
What happens if a service member does not fill out the DD 93 form?

If a service member fails to fill out the DD 93 form, the military will follow a standard procedure for notification and allocation of benefits according to existing laws and military regulations. This typically involves seeking the next of kin based on a predefined hierarchy. However, this process may not always align with the service member's personal wishes.
Is the information on the DD 93 form confidential?

Yes, the information provided on the DD 93 form is confidential and is used solely for the purpose of notifying next of kin and distributing entitlements in the event of the service member's death. Access to this information is limited to authorized military personnel.
Can a service member change their mind after submitting a DD 93 form?

Service members can update or change their DD 93 form at any time. It’s recommended to review the form regularly and especially after life changes to ensure that the information reflects current wishes regarding beneficiaries and next of kin.
Where can someone get help with the DD 93 form?

Help with completing or updating a DD 93 form can be obtained from a service member's unit personnel office. Legal assistance officers in the military are also available to provide guidance and help ensure that the form is filled out in accordance with the service member's wishes and legal requirements.

Common mistakes

Filling out the DD Form 93, or "Record of Emergency Data," is a crucial task for service members. It ensures that in an emergency, the right people are contacted and your wishes are known. However, a few common mistakes can lead to unnecessary complications. Here’s a look at what to avoid.

Not updating personal information. As life changes, so should the information on your DD Form 93. A failure to update addresses, contact numbers, or marital status can lead to confusion or delays when time is of the essence.
Listing someone you don't fully trust. The people you list on this form will be contacted in critical situations. Ensure that they are individuals who can handle the responsibility.
Forgetting to specify insurance policy information. Your DD Form 93 helps to notify your SGLI (Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance) beneficiaries. Leaving this area blank or inaccurate can complicate matters for your loved ones.
Overlooking the importance of secondary contacts. Primary contacts might not always be reachable. Including reliable secondary contacts ensures there's always someone available to make crucial decisions.
Misunderstanding the form's sections. Each section serves a specific purpose, from designating beneficiaries for death gratuity to expressing your wishes about your remains. Misinterpretations can lead to your wishes not being honored.
Leaving some fields blank. While you might not have all the information readily available, it’s crucial to fill out as much of the form as possible or seek guidance for unclear sections.
Failing to review and revise. Life events such as marriages, divorces, births, or deaths necessitate a review and, if needed, revisions to your form to reflect your current wishes and circumstances.
Handwriting that’s hard to read. Unclear handwriting can lead to misinterpretation of vital information. It’s best to fill out the form electronically, if possible, or take care to write legibly.
Not seeking help when needed. If you’re unsure about any part of the form, asking for assistance from a superior or a legal advisor can prevent mistakes.

In conclusion, the DD Form 93 is not just another piece of paperwork. It's a serious document that requires careful attention to detail. By avoiding these common mistakes, service members can ensure their and their families' needs are met during difficult times.

Documents used along the form

In the spectrum of necessary documentation for military personnel, the DD Form 93, Record of Emergency Data, serves as a critical component for capturing vital information intended for use in the case of an emergency. This form alone, however, is often not enough. Several other forms and documents tend to accompany the DD Form 93, each serving its unique purpose but collectively ensuring a comprehensive approach to handling emergencies, benefits, and other personal affairs of servicemembers.

Service members’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI) Form - Officially known as SGLV 8286, this form allows service members to elect, decline, or change their life insurance coverage. It is intimately connected to DD Form 93, as both deal with contingencies and the welfare of the service members' beneficiaries.
Will or Testament - While not a standardized government form like the DD 93, many service members prepare a will or testament. This legal document specifies the distribution of their assets and care of dependents, aligning with information noted in the DD 93 regarding beneficiaries.
Power of Attorney (POA) - Frequently used by military personnel, a POA document grants another individual the legal authority to act on the service member's behalf. This authority can cover a wide range of actions, from managing financial matters to making medical decisions, particularly critical in times of deployment or incapacitation.
Emergency Contact Information Sheets - Often supplementary to the DD Form 93, these sheets provide additional contact information and special instructions not covered in the main form. They serve as a quick reference for units trying to reach family members or other designated contacts in an emergency.

Understanding the interplay between the DD Form 93 and its accompanying documents is essential for those looking to ensure their emergency data, financial benefits, and personal wishes are well-documented and easily accessible when needed. This bouquet of documents creates a robust framework for addressing the varied needs of service members during times of uncertainty.

Similar forms

Last Will and Testament: Much like the DD 93 form, a Last Will and Testament allows individuals to document their final wishes, including asset distribution and care for minors. Both documents ensure personal wishes are recognized legally.
Life Insurance Policies: Similar to the DD 93 form, life insurance policies require beneficiaries to be designated. These policies provide financial benefits to loved ones in the event of the policyholder's passing, reflecting the DD 93's purpose of ensuring military members' beneficiaries are clear.
Power of Attorney (POA): POAs grant authority to an agent to act on behalf of someone else in various capacities. This mirrors the DD 93 form’s function of designating individuals to make decisions or receive information under certain circumstances.
Health Care Proxy: This document appoints someone to make medical decisions on one's behalf, similar to how the DD 93 form can specify individuals to receive information or make decisions under specific scenarios, particularly concerning the individual's health or benefits.
Beneficiary Forms for Retirement Accounts: Like the DD 93, these forms ensure that the benefits from retirement accounts are transferred to the designated beneficiaries upon the account holder's demise. They both serve the vital role of directing where and to whom benefits should go.
Emergency Contact Forms: Schools, workplaces, and many other institutions use emergency contact forms to know whom to notify in case of an emergency. The DD 93 form serves a similar purpose in the military context, outlining who should be contacted and under what circumstances.
Advance Directive: An advance directive specifies an individual's preferences for medical care if they’re unable to make decisions themselves. While it focuses more on healthcare decisions, it shares the DD 93 form’s goal of preparing for situations where the individual cannot express their wishes directly.

Dos and Don'ts

Filling out the DD 93 form, officially known as the "Record of Emergency Data", is an important step for members of the military. This document ensures that the correct procedures are followed in case of an emergency. To assist in this process, consider the following list of do's and don'ts:

Do read each section carefully before filling it out. This form contains critical information that requires accuracy and attention to detail.
Do verify all personal information, including full name, Social Security number, and contact details, for accuracy. This ensures that records are current and correct.
Do contact a legal advisor or a superior if you need clarification on any part of the form. Guidance from knowledgeable individuals helps in avoiding mistakes.
Do update your DD 93 form regularly, especially after life-changing events such as marriage, the birth of a child, or a change in next of kin.
Don't leave any sections blank unless specifically instructed to do so. Incomplete forms may lead to delays or issues in emergency situations.
Don't use nicknames or abbreviations. Always provide full legal names and information wherever required.
Don't forget to sign and date the form upon completion. An unsigned form is considered invalid and will not be processed.
Don't hesitate to review and revise the form before submitting it. Making sure all information is correct and up-to-date is crucial.

This guidance should assist in ensuring the DD 93 form is filled out correctly and efficiently, providing peace of mind to both the individual filling it out and their loved ones.

Misconceptions

The DD 93 Form, officially known as the "Record of Emergency Data", is a vital document for service members in the United States military. It primarily serves to record beneficiaries for certain benefits in the event of the service member's death. Despite its significance, there are numerous misconceptions surrounding the DD 93 form. Understanding these misconceptions is crucial for service members and their families to ensure their emergency data is accurately recorded and understood. Let's dispel some of these myths.

Misconception 1: The DD 93 form is only for listing next of kin.
While it does include next of kin information, the DD 93 form's purpose extends beyond that. It is also used to designate beneficiaries for specific military benefits, such as death gratuity and unpaid pay and allowances. The form ensures that benefits are distributed according to the service member's wishes, not just based on next of kin relationships.
Misconception 2: Once filled out, the DD 93 form never needs to be updated.
Lives change, and so do relationships and circumstances. It's essential for service members to update their DD 93 form regularly, especially after major life events such as marriage, divorce, childbirth, or death in the family. Failure to keep the form updated can lead to benefits being distributed in ways that no longer reflect the service member's desires.
Misconception 3: The DD 93 form is only accessible to military personnel.
While the form is filled out by service members, it's important for family members to know where it is filed and understand its contents. In the event of a tragedy, family members will be better prepared to navigate the process of claiming benefits.
Misconception 4: Filling out the DD 93 form is complicated and time-consuming.
Although dealing with bureaucratic paperwork can be daunting, the DD 93 form is relatively straightforward. Service members can seek assistance from their unit's personnel officer or a military legal assistant if they have questions or need help filling out the form.
Misconception 5: The DD 93 automatically includes life insurance beneficiaries.
The DD 93 form does not designate beneficiaries for Service Members' Group Life Insurance (SGLI) or other personal life insurance policies. Those policies have their own forms (SGLV 8286 for SGLI, for example) that service members must complete to designate life insurance beneficiaries.
Misconception 6: All family members must be listed on the DD 93 form.
The DD 93 form is designed to capture essential emergency data and beneficiary information. Service members have the discretion to designate whom they wish to receive benefits and need not list all family members if they do not choose to do so.
Misconception 7: The DD 93 form has no impact on funeral and burial arrangements.
While it's true that the DD 93 form does not directly arrange funeral and burial services, the designated person on the form may be consulted about the deceased service member's wishes. Therefore, it can indirectly influence decisions related to funeral and burial arrangements.

Understanding the DD 93 form is pivotal for service members and their families not only for ensuring the intended distribution of benefits but for peace of mind. Debunking these misconceptions empowers individuals to take appropriate actions that align with their wishes, providing clarity and security in times of emergency.

Key takeaways

The DD Form 93, or "Record of Emergency Data," is a document that is used by the Department of Defense for service members to record essential information for next-of-kin notifications and other important contacts in case of emergency. Understanding how to accurately complete and update this form is crucial for ensuring that the right people are contacted without delay during a crisis. Here are four key takeaways concerning the DD 93 form that service members should keep in mind:

Accuracy is Paramount: When filling out the DD 93 form, it's vital to ensure all information is accurate and current. This includes correct spelling of names, up-to-date contact information, and precise relationship designations. Mistakes or outdated information can lead to delays in notification, adding stress and confusion to an already tense situation.
Regular Updates are Necessary: Service members should review and update their DD 93 form regularly, or whenever there's a significant life event, such as a marriage, birth of a child, divorce, or a change in next-of-kin. Life changes frequently, and maintaining current information helps ensure that communications are expedited effectively in emergencies.
Choice of Primary and Secondary Contacts: The form allows for the designation of both primary and secondary contacts. This is an opportunity to ensure that multiple individuals can be reached, broadening the support network available in times of need. Consideration should be given to the sequence in which these contacts are listed, as it can affect the order in which notifications are made by military officials.
Privacy and Use of Information: The information provided on the DD 93 form is used solely for emergency notification purposes and to designate beneficiaries for certain military benefits in the event of a service member's death. It's important to be mindful of the sensitive nature of the information and the trust involved in its use. Service members must understand that this information will be accessed and used by military officials responsibly and only as necessary.

By paying careful attention to the accuracy and timeliness of the information they provide on their DD 93 form, service members can help ensure that in the face of an emergency, their loved ones are promptly and correctly informed, and their wishes regarding beneficiaries are honored. Keeping this document up to date is a key responsibility for all service members.

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