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The DD Form 93, formally known as the Record of Emergency Data, plays a crucial role for military personnel and Department of Defense (DoD) civilians. This form serves multiple essential purposes. Primarily, it designates beneficiaries for certain benefits in the event of a Service member's death. It also outlines procedures for managing that member’s pay and allowances should they be captured, missing, or interned. Additionally, it helps identify emergency contacts—names and addresses of individuals whom the Service member wishes to be notified in case of an emergency or death. For civilians, the form expedites the notification process under similar circumstances. Important details, such as the Service member’s Social Security Number, are collected to ensure accurate identification. It is vital for individuals to keep their DD Form 93 current, reflecting any changes in beneficiaries or personal circumstances such as marriage or address changes. Overall, the DD Form 93 is divided into two main sections: emergency contact information and benefits-related information, designed to ensure that the right people are contacted and that benefits are promptly administered when necessary.

Dd 93 Example

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)

 

(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 7.0 Professional

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

Form Characteristics

Fact Name Details
Authority The DD Form 93 is governed by several laws including 5 USC 552, 10 USC 655, and 38 USC 1970, among others.
Principal Purpose This form serves to designate beneficiaries for military personnel and expedite notification for civilian personnel in emergencies.
Routine Uses There are no routine uses for the information collected in this form, ensuring confidentiality.
Disclosure Providing information is voluntary. However, inaccuracies may delay benefit processing.
Structure The form is divided into two sections: Emergency Contact Information and Benefits Related Information.
Update Responsibility It is the responsibility of the service member or civilian to keep this record up to date with any life changes.

Guidelines on Utilizing Dd 93

Completing the DD Form 93 is a critical task for military and civilian personnel of the Department of Defense. By accurately filling out this form, individuals ensure that their emergency contact information and beneficiary designations are correctly recorded. This process can facilitate timely communications and benefits in case of emergencies. Follow the steps outlined below to complete the form accurately.

  1. Enter your full name in Item 1 (Last, First, Middle Initial).
  2. In Item 2, write your Social Security Number (SSN).
  3. In Item 3a, mark the appropriate block for your service or civilian category (Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, DoD Civilian, Contractor).
  4. Provide your Reporting Unit Code or Duty Station in Item 3b.
  5. If you have a spouse, enter their name in Item 4a. Otherwise, mark your marital status as single, divorced, or widowed in the provided box.
  6. In Item 4b, include the full address and telephone number of your spouse.
  7. List your children in Item 5a-d, providing their names, relationships, dates of birth, and addresses as applicable.
  8. Enter your father's information in Item 6a-b (name and address).
  9. Provide your mother's information in Item 7a-b (name and address).
  10. In Item 8, indicate any individuals not to be notified due to health concerns, along with alternative contacts.
  11. Complete Item 9a-b if applicable; otherwise, skip to Item 10 for contractors, noting your agency and telephone number.
  12. For military personnel, complete Item 11a-d concerning beneficiaries for death gratuity; specify percentages where applicable.
  13. In Item 12a-c, provide details for beneficiaries concerning unpaid pay and allowances, if relevant.
  14. In Item 13a-b, include details about the person authorized to direct the disposition of your remains.
  15. Use Item 14 for any additional remarks or to continue answers from previous items.
  16. Sign the form in Item 15, including your rank or grade if applicable.
  17. Have a witness sign in Item 16; this is not required for electronic submissions.
  18. Finally, date the form in Item 17 using the specified format.

What You Should Know About This Form

What is the purpose of the DD Form 93?

The DD Form 93, also known as the Record of Emergency Data, serves as a critical document for military personnel, Department of Defense civilians, and contractors. Its primary aim is to designate beneficiaries for specific benefits in the event of a service member's death. Moreover, it provides vital information for emergency notifications regarding the individual’s family, helping to ensure that loved ones are informed promptly in case of an emergency, capture, or death.

Who should complete this form?

Both military personnel and civilian employees of the Department of Defense are required to complete the DD Form 93. Military members use it to list emergency contacts and beneficiaries for benefits related to their death. Civilian personnel also utilize the form to share emergency contact information. It is essential for everyone in these roles to have an updated and accurate form to facilitate timely notification processes.

How often should I update my DD Form 93?

It is advisable to review and update the DD Form 93 regularly, especially after significant life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or the death of a designated beneficiary. Keeping this document current ensures that the information remains accurate and reflects your intentions regarding beneficiaries and emergency contacts. Failure to provide updated information may result in delays for benefit processing or notifications.

Is the information provided on the DD Form 93 confidential?

The details included in the DD Form 93 are treated with a high degree of confidentiality. The form is protected under the Privacy Act, meaning that the information can only be used for the purposes specified and will not be disclosed without proper authorization. However, it is important to note that the disclosure of some personal information is voluntary, yet omitting key information may hinder the process of benefits and emergency notifications.

What happens if I do not fill out the DD Form 93?

Not completing the DD Form 93 can lead to complications in emergency situations and may impede the timely processing of benefits for your designated beneficiaries in the event of your death. Without this information, the military and other relevant authorities may struggle to notify your loved ones or ensure proper management of your benefits. It is crucial to fill out the form accurately to avoid these potential issues.

Can I complete the DD Form 93 electronically?

Yes, the DD Form 93 can be completed electronically. However, if electronic completion is not possible, the form may be filled out using a typewriter or by hand with black or blue-black ink to maintain legibility. If signing electronically, one should follow the guidelines established in DoD Instruction 1300.18 for valid signatures. Always ensure that all copies are signed and dated appropriately, regardless of the method used.

Common mistakes

Filling out the DD Form 93 can be a straightforward task if proper attention is given to the instructions. However, several common mistakes can lead to issues later on. One frequent error is failing to provide all required information. Individuals often overlook sections or mistakenly believe that some of the questions do not apply to them. This can result in incomplete identification of beneficiaries or emergency contacts, potentially delaying benefits and notifications.

Another mistake involves incorrect personal details. It is crucial to enter accurate names, addresses, and other identifiers without alterations or misspellings. For example, omitting a middle initial or using an outdated address can create confusion. Consistency in the information provided is essential, especially regarding social security numbers.

Individuals sometimes disregard the need for signatures. Some may complete the form without signing it, believing that the information alone is sufficient. However, without a valid signature, the form may not be processed, which can lead to complications in the event of an emergency.

Moreover, confusion regarding sections for military versus civilian personnel is common. Civilian contractors often mistakenly fill in parts of the form intended only for military members. This can lead to inaccuracies and incomplete information being recorded, which may hinder the processing of benefits or notifications.

Another prevalent issue is neglecting to keep the form updated. Life situations can change rapidly—new marriages, births, or deaths in the family should be reflected on the form promptly. Failing to make these updates can cause difficulties in identifying beneficiaries or emergency contacts.

Some people also fail to read the instructions carefully before starting. Noting that certain sections may not be applicable to everyone could help reduce errors. Understanding the specific requirements for completing each item will enhance the accuracy of the data provided.

Additionally, individuals often randomly mark boxes without understanding their implications. For instance, selecting options related to beneficiaries or emergency contacts must be done thoughtfully and with clear intent to ensure that the correct individuals are designated.

Finally, it is a misstep to ignore the remarks section. This area of the form allows for additional information that can assist in the notification process. Omitting details such as special considerations or alternative contact methods can hinder the efficiency of communication during an emergency.

Documents used along the form

The DD 93 form, also known as the Record of Emergency Data, plays a crucial role in ensuring that military personnel and Department of Defense civilians can designate beneficiaries and inform designated contacts in case of emergencies. Various other forms and documents complement the DD 93 to facilitate the management of benefits and personal affairs related to military service. Here is a brief overview of some important forms often used alongside the DD 93.

  • DD Form 214: This document serves as a certificate of release or discharge from active duty. It provides valuable information about a service member's military service, including dates of service, awards, and reasons for separation.
  • SF 1174: Also known as the Claim for Unpaid Compensation of Deceased Member of the Armed Forces, this form allows beneficiaries to claim any unpaid pay and allowances owed to a service member who has passed away.
  • DD Form 149: This is the Application for Correction of Military Records. Veterans or their beneficiaries may use this form to request changes to their military records, which may impact benefits.
  • VA Form 21-526EZ: This application for disability compensation is for veterans who seek financial benefits due to service-connected disabilities. Accurate completion is crucial for a smooth benefits application process.
  • DA Form 7956: This form is used to designate a person authorized to direct disposition of remains after death. It ensures the service member's wishes are honored during this sensitive time.
  • DD Form 5880: Known as the Application for the Survivor Benefit Plan, this form enables service members to designate their beneficiaries for ongoing financial support to survivors in the event of their death.

Each of these documents plays a distinct role in the management and retrieval of benefits, ensuring that service members and their families can navigate the complexities of military service and benefit administration with clarity and support. Understanding how these forms interrelate is essential for effective planning and response in the event of a service member's injury or passing.

Similar forms

  • DD Form 214: This form, known as the Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, serves to provide service members with proof of military service. Like the DD 93, it contains vital information about a service member’s history, such as service dates and discharge status. Both forms ensure that appropriate beneficiaries are informed and receive due benefits.
  • SF 1150: The Special Form 1150 is used for claiming unpaid pay and allowances after a service member's death. Similar to the DD 93, it lists potential beneficiaries for these payments, ensuring that financial matters are addressed after a service-related incident.
  • DD Form 1780: This form focuses on the death benefits and required beneficiaries of deceased service members. Like the DD 93, it mandates the designation of individuals entitled to receive specific benefits, which aids in prompt processing.
  • DA Form 4240: The Application for Survivor Benefits form allows military personnel to designate beneficiaries for Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) coverage. Both the DA Form 4240 and DD 93 are crucial for ensuring that dependents are adequately provided for after a service member’s death.
  • Form SGLV 8286: This document is used for designating beneficiaries for Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI). Similar to the DD 93, it collects beneficiary information crucial for ensuring that insurance benefits are distributed properly after the service member's passing.
  • DD Form 2823: The Statement of Witness form allows individuals to provide accounts of incidents and circumstances surrounding a service member's situation. This form can be similar to the DD 93 as it deals with critical information relevant during emergencies and potential investigations.
  • DD Form 690: The Family Care Certificate is aimed at military members with dependents. Like the DD 93, it emphasizes the importance of having a clear plan in place regarding beneficiaries and emergency contacts, ensuring that family members are considered.
  • DD Form 200: The Financial Liability Investigation of Property Loss is related to the accountability of government property. While it serves a different purpose, it shares similarities with the DD 93 in that both forms address accountability and procedures following important incidents, though one focuses more on financial loss.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the DD 93 form, it's critical to ensure accuracy and completeness. Here are seven things to do and avoid.

  • DO: Read all instructions carefully before starting to fill out the form.
  • DO: Enter full names, including middle initials, for clarity.
  • DO: Keep your contact information up to date, including addresses and phone numbers.
  • DO: List all emergency contacts, ensuring they are aware they are designated.
  • DO: Specify percentages for beneficiaries clearly, especially when naming multiple people.
  • DO: Sign and date the form in ink to validate your entries.
  • DO: Use Item 14 to provide any additional important information as needed.
  • DON’T: Leave any applicable sections blank; if it's not relevant, indicate "N/A."
  • DON’T: Use P.O. Box addresses; always provide a physical address.
  • DON’T: Forget to update the form after major life changes, like marriage or divorce.
  • DON’T: List more than one primary next of kin without specifying additional contacts elsewhere.
  • DON’T: Submit without at least one witness (unless electronically signed).
  • DON’T: Use unclear or vague language in your entries; clarity is vital.
  • DON’T: Assume your previous submissions are still accurate; confirm all details.

Misconceptions

Misconceptions about the DD Form 93 can lead to misunderstandings regarding its purpose and use. Here are five common misconceptions:

  • The DD Form 93 is only for military personnel. This form is utilized not only by military service members but also by Department of Defense civilian and contractor personnel. Its purpose is relevant to both groups when it comes to emergency data and beneficiary designations.
  • Filling out the form is mandatory. While it is crucial for ensuring proper notification and benefit disbursement, disclosing information on the DD Form 93 is voluntary. However, failure to provide accurate information may lead to delays in processing benefits for designated beneficiaries.
  • The form automatically updates itself. This is incorrect. It's the responsibility of the service member or civilian to keep their record up to date. Significant life changes, such as marriage or the birth of a child, should prompt a review and potential update of the form.
  • There are legal consequences if the form is not filled out correctly. While errors can lead to confusion and delays, there are no direct legal penalties tied to inaccuracies on the DD Form 93. However, it is essential to ensure accuracy to avoid complications for your beneficiaries.
  • The information on the form is confidential. The information collected is intended for emergency notifications and benefit distributions. While it is treated with care, it is not completely confidential in the sense that it may be shared within the Department of Defense for these purposes.

Key takeaways

  • Purpose of the DD Form 93: This form is essential for military personnel and DoD civilians. It helps designate beneficiaries for benefits if a service member dies and provides emergency contact information.

  • Voluntary Disclosure: While filling out this form is voluntary, providing accurate information is crucial. Missing or incorrect details can delay notifications and benefits processing.

  • Keep Information Current: It is the responsibility of the individual to update the form regularly. Changes in marital status, address, or other personal details should reflect in the DD Form 93.

  • Section Breakdown: The form contains two main sections. Section 1 is for emergency contacts, while Section 2 pertains to benefits related information, ensuring that all necessary data is captured.