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When service members leave the military, they receive a discharge that describes the conditions of their separation. For many veterans, that discharge tells only part of the story.
While some receive an Honorable discharge, others leave with a General, Other Than Honorable (OTH), Bad Conduct, or Dishonorable discharge. That label can have lasting consequences. A less-than-honorable discharge may block access to VA health care, disability compensation, education benefits, and housing assistance. It can also make it harder to find employment or obtain certain professional licenses.
For some veterans, the discharge does not fully reflect their service or the circumstances they were facing at the time.
In recent years, there has been greater recognition that many service members struggled with untreated mental health conditions during their time in uniform. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injury (TBI), military sexual trauma (MST), and substance use connected to service have all played a role in misconduct that later led to negative discharges. In other cases, errors in the discharge process or changes in military policy may justify a second look.
A military discharge upgrade offers that opportunity.
Veterans can apply to have their discharge reviewed and possibly changed. They may also request corrections to their military records, including the reason for separation. These applications are reviewed by military boards, and the process often requires service records, medical documentation, and personal statements explaining what happened and how it affected the veteran’s behavior.
The process can be complex. Gathering records and presenting a strong case can be difficult, especially for veterans who are already facing financial or health challenges. Applications may be denied even when compelling circumstances exist.
Still, a successful discharge upgrade can make a life-changing difference. It may restore access to critical benefits, improve financial stability, and provide recognition that more accurately reflects a veteran’s service. Even partial corrections to military records can remove barriers to housing, employment, and health care.
For veterans who believe their discharge was unfair or does not tell the full story, help may be available. Legal assistance programs, including Legal Services of Greater Miami, assist eligible veterans with discharge upgrades and military record corrections at no cost.
For many veterans, a discharge upgrade is not just about benefits. It is about dignity, fairness, and making sure their service is fully and accurately recognized. Call us at 305-576-0090 or visit legalservicesmiami.org to see if you qualify for assistance today.
