Application for the Review of Discharge from the Armed Forces of the United States
Revision of a currently approved collection
No
Regular
12/18/2025
Requested
Previously Approved
36 Months From Approved
02/28/2026
4,835
2,827
2,418
1,414
17,527
10,262
Under Title 10 USC 1553 and DOD Directive 1332.41, "Boards for the Correction of Military Records (BCMRs) and Discharge Review Board (DRBs)," former service members who received an administrative discharge have the right to appeal the characterization or reason for separation provided they do so within 15 years from the date of separation. The DD Form 293, "Application for Review of Discharge or Separation from the Armed Forces of the United States," is the form that allows former Service members to explain the reasons for the alleged error, designate legal counsel, and provides DRBs necessary information to process requests.
There has been an increase in burden since the previous approval due to the following:
1. Several DoD-directed group application submissions over the last few years, such as the submission of over 1,000 applications for discharge upgrade last year as part of the remedy for those discharged under Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell. There were also a number of applicants who sought records correction and return to duty after the COVID vaccination requirement was removed.
2. A steady increase in applications under a policy called “liberal consideration” in which the Boards are directed to liberally grant discharge upgrades for those who provide some evidence that they suffered from combat or sexual assault/harassment related PTSD or TBI at the time of their discharge. As this policy has become more widely known, more people have applied to the Boards.
3. Some of the Services (Army and Air Force) have made it easier for applicants to submit applications through an online portal. The Navy also now allows members to submit applications by email, whereas previously they would only accept applications through the mail.
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that the collection of information encompassed by this request complies with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR 1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding the proposed collection of information, that the certification covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.