The DD 93 form, officially known as the "Record of Emergency Data," is a crucial document for members of the United States military. It captures essential information used to contact family members or loved ones in the event of a service member's injury, illness, or death. To ensure the well-being and peace of mind of military personnel and their families, filling out this form accurately and updating it as necessary is highly recommended.
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For members of the U.S. armed forces, preparing for the unexpected is a fundamental responsibility, one that extends beyond the immediacy of their roles in defense and security. Within this spectrum of preparedness, the Record of Emergency Data, known commonly by its form designation, DD Form 93, plays a critical role. This document is a vital piece of administrative work, designed with the utmost care to ensure that, should a service member face serious injury, illness, or death, their wishes regarding notification and benefits are clearly understood and acted upon. By capturing essential information such as the designation of beneficiaries for death gratuity, unpaid pay, and allowances, as well as identifying the individuals to be notified in the event of an emergency or death, the DD 93 form serves as a keystone in the infrastructure of military family care. A duty to complete and a right to be respected, this form bridges the gap between personal desires and official duty, ensuring that the wishes of those who serve are honored, while also providing peace of mind that their loved ones will be cared for in times of need. Engaging with the DD 93 form is not just a matter of protocol; it embodies a deeply personal dimension of military service, reflecting the importance of family, responsibility, and legacy within the armed forces community.
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)
7a. MOTHER NAME (Last, First, Middle Initial)
8a. DO NOT NOTIFY DUE TO ILL HEALTH
b. NOTIFY INSTEAD
9a. DESIGNATED PERSON(S) (Military only)
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
c. ADDRESS (Include ZIP Code) AND TELEPHONE NUMBER
d. PERCENTAGE
(Military only)
12a. BENEFICIARY(IES) FOR UNPAID PAY/ALLOWANCES
c. PERCENTAGE
(Military only) NAME AND RELATIONSHIP
13a. PERSON AUTHORIZED TO DIRECT DISPOSITION (PADD)
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
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
(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
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
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
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
Once an individual completes the DD 93 form, it sets in motion a series of administrative tasks aimed at ensuring the person’s wishes are honored in dire circumstances. The form is a crucial document, safeguarding the rights and last wishes of service members. It dictates who should be promptly notified in the event of an emergency, severe injury, or untimely death. The process of filling out the form is straightforward but requires attention to detail to ensure that all information is accurate and reflective of the individual's current wishes.
Once the DD 93 form is properly filled out and submitted, the documented wishes become a part of the individual's official record. This action allows service members to have peace of mind, knowing that their preferences for emergency contacts and final arrangements are formally recorded and will be honored. It is advisable for individuals to review and update the form periodically, especially after life-changing events such as marriage, the birth of a child, or divorce, to ensure that the information remains accurate and reflective of their current wishes.
What is a DD 93 form?
The DD 93 form, also known as the "Record of Emergency Data," is a critical document used by the military. It serves to provide essential information needed to notify family members in the case of a service member's injury, illness, or, unfortunately, death. The form captures details about immediate family members, beneficiaries for certain military benefits, and contact information for those who should be notified first.
How can one update their DD 93 form?
Updating the DD 93 form is a straightforward process. Service members are encouraged to review and, if necessary, update their form annually, during life-changing events such as marriage, the birth of a child, or a divorce. To update the form, members need to contact their unit's personnel officer or use the military’s personnel system available online for some branches. This ensures that the information remains current and accurate.
Who has access to the information on a DD 93 form?
Access to the information contained in a DD 93 form is strictly controlled and limited to authorized military personnel. These include designated officials in the chain of command, personnel management, and casualty notification officers. The primary purpose of controlled access is to protect the privacy of the service member and their listed contacts, ensuring that the information is used only in accordance with military regulations and for the intended purpose of emergency notification.
Is it mandatory for all service members to fill out a DD 93 form?
Yes, it is mandatory for all service members to complete a DD 93 form upon their enlistment or commissioning in the United States military. Keeping the form updated is also a requirement, given its critical role in ensuring that the military can provide timely and accurate notifications to family members and designated contacts in any case of emergency or need. This form is a key part of the military’s readiness and family care policies.
When filling out the DD 93 form, which is crucial for detailing record of emergency data for service members, many errors are often made due to oversight or misunderstanding. One common mistake is neglecting to update the form when personal circumstances change, such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child. It is vital that the information on the form is current to ensure that the correct individuals are contacted in an emergency situation.
Another frequent error is incorrect or incomplete information about the primary and secondary next of kin. The form must include full names, addresses, and contact details for these individuals. Any inaccuracies or missing details can delay or prevent the military from making timely contact during critical moments.
Some individuals fail to designate a beneficiary for the death gratuity, which is a one-time payment made to the beneficiary of a service member who dies while on active duty or in certain reserve statuses. It's crucial to understand the significance of this section and to make a clear and thoughtful designation.
Moreover, inaccuracies in Social Security numbers are a common error that can lead to significant issues. This information must be double-checked for correctness as it is used to identify and process benefits for the designated individuals accurately.
A mistake often overlooked is not providing sufficient details for the person authorized to direct disposition (PADD) of remains. This decision is profoundly personal and requires clear, specific instructions and information.
Many service members mistakenly assume that filling out the form once covers them indefinitely. However, there are life events, such as changes in the family structure or preferences for the disposition of remains, that necessitate revising the form. Ensuring the form reflects current wishes and information is crucial.
Omitting the signature and date at the end of the form is another error that renders the document unofficial. Both the service member’s signature and the witness’s signature are required to validate the form.
Filling out the form without a clear understanding of its sections may lead individuals to skip important parts, like specific insurance information or detailed wishes regarding funeral arrangements. Every section of the DD 93 form has a purpose and should be completed comprehensively.
Finally, not consulting with a legal advisor or a knowledgeable official when completing the DD 93 form is a missed opportunity for clarity. Misunderstandings or questions about how to best convey one's wishes and information can often be resolved through professional guidance, ensuring the document fully serves its purpose.
When it comes to preparing for the unexpected, members of the military are required to fill out various forms that cover a broad range of needs and circumstances. One of the most crucial documents is the DD Form 93, or "Record of Emergency Data." It provides the military with the necessary information to notify family members in the unfortunate event of an injury, illness, or death. However, the DD 93 is not the only document military personnel need to be familiar with; several others are equally important for ensuring all aspects of their affairs are in order. Below are some of the key forms and documents often used alongside the DD 93, each serving its unique purpose.
Each of these documents plays a vital role in the administrative, legal, and personal aspects of a service member's career and post-military life. Together with the DD 93, they ensure that military personnel can manage their duty obligations, personal affairs, and benefits effectively. Understanding and properly completing these forms can significantly impact a service member's readiness, entitlements, and the well-being of their families.
The DD 93 form, known as the Record of Emergency Data, is essential for military members as it records emergency contact information and beneficiary details in case of a servicemember's death. Similar to this, the Standard Form (SF) 1152, "Designation of Beneficiary - Unpaid Compensation of Deceased Civilian Employee," serves civilian federal employees. This form allows employees to designate beneficiaries for unpaid compensation. Both documents ensure that any owed benefits find their way to the intended recipients after the individual's demise.
Another analogous document is the Service Members’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI) Form, which military personnel use to designate beneficiaries for their life insurance benefits. This document, like the DD 93, is crucial for ensuring that in the event of the servicemember's death, the life insurance benefits are distributed according to their wishes. Both forms share the common goal of providing financial support to chosen individuals after the policyholder's or servicemember's death.
The TSP-3 Form, or Thrift Savings Plan Designation of Beneficiary, also mirrors the DD 93 in purpose for federal employees and uniformed services members. Participants use it to specify who should receive the funds in their Thrift Savings Plan account if they pass away. It is pivotal for planning the financial future of the beneficiaries, akin to how DD 93 secures the distribution of benefits to servicemembers’ chosen contacts or loved ones.
Private sector employees often fill out a similar document known as the Beneficiary Designation Form for their 401(k) or life insurance policies offered through their employer. This form, like the DD 93, enables employees to name individuals or entities as beneficiaries, ensuring their assets are appropriately allocated upon their death. Both documents are fundamental in preemptive financial planning and safeguarding the interests of loved ones or chosen beneficiaries.
The "Last Will and Testament" is a more comprehensive document that outlines how an individual's estate should be distributed upon their death. While broader in scope, like the DD 93, it specifies beneficiaries for an individual's assets, making it essential for estate planning. Both documents play a critical role in dictating the allocation of the individual's assets post-mortem, though the Last Will and Testament addresses a wider array of personal property beyond what is covered by the DD 93.
Similarly, the Payable on Death (POD) account designation at banks allows account holders to designate beneficiaries for their bank accounts. The POD designation serves a similar function to the DD 93 by ensuring assets are swiftly transferred to the chosen beneficiary upon the account holder's death, bypassing probate. Both mechanisms simplify the transfer of assets, providing a direct route for funds to reach intended recipients.
The "Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare" is a legal document that allows an individual to appoint someone to make healthcare decisions on their behalf if they become incapacitated. Though it focuses more on healthcare decisions rather than beneficiary designations, it shares the DD 93’s principle of appointing individuals to act in one's stead, highlighting the importance of preparatory decisions in personal matters.
The "Advanced Healthcare Directive," or living will, allows individuals to outline their preferences for medical treatment if they are unable to communicate their decisions. Like the Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare, but with a focus on end-of-life choices, it parallels the DD 93's intent of preparedness by ensuring individuals' wishes are known and adhered to in critical situations.
Lastly, the "Transfer on Death (TOD) Registration" for securities is comparable to the DD 93. This form enables individuals to name beneficiaries for their stocks, bonds, or brokerage accounts, bypassing the probate process. It aligns with the DD 93 in its goal to streamline the transfer of assets directly to named beneficiaries, ensuring the decedent's assets transfer according to their wishes without legal complications.
Filing the DD 93 form, which is used by military service members to record emergency contact information and beneficiary details, is an important task that requires careful attention to detail. Here are several dos and don'ts to keep in mind during this process:
The DD Form 93, or "Record of Emergency Data," is a crucial document for military personnel, but it's often surrounded by misconceptions. Below are ten common misunderstandings, along with explanations to dispel them.
Only for Deployed Personnel: Some believe that only those who are deployed need to complete the DD Form 93. However, all service members must fill it out, regardless of their deployment status, to ensure emergency contact information is up-to-date.
One-Time Completion: Another misconception is that the form only needs to be filled out once. Service members should update their DD Form 93 whenever there are significant life changes, such as marriage, the birth of a child, or a change in emergency contacts.
Emergency Contacts Are Automatically Beneficiaries: Listing someone as an emergency contact does not automatically make them a beneficiary for death gratuity or unpaid pay and allowances. Specific designations for beneficiaries need to be made separately through other documents.
Only for Active Duty Members: While active duty personnel are required to complete the form, members of the Reserve and National Guard must also fill it out, ensuring their information is current.
It’s Confidential and Not Shared: While the information is not public, it is shared with certain military personnel, such as unit leaders and casualty assistance officers, to facilitate contact in an emergency.
No Legal Authority: Some people mistakenly believe that the DD Form 93 has no legal authority. It actually serves as a legal document within the military to ensure that a service member’s wishes concerning emergency notifications are honored.
Addresses Only Death Scenarios: The purpose of the form extends beyond addressing scenarios of death. It also includes details for contacting designated individuals in cases of serious illness or injury.
Including Family Only: Service members can list anyone they choose as an emergency contact, not just family members. Friends or other trusted individuals can also be listed, provided the service member wishes them to be contacted in an emergency.
Health Information Is Required: Contrary to what some think, health information is not required on the DD Form 93. The form focuses on contact information for who should be notified in an emergency situation.
Electronic Submission Is Not Allowed: While the process may vary by branch and unit, in many cases, electronic submission of the DD Form 93 is possible and encouraged, ensuring quicker updates and processing.
The DD 93 form, officially titled "Record of Emergency Data," serves as a critical document for military personnel. Its primary function is to designate beneficiaries for certain entitlements and provide a record of people to contact in case of an emergency or death. Here are key takeaways that one must understand about filling out and using the DD 93 form:
Proper completion and regular updating of the DD 93 form cannot be overstated. It not only ensures the wishes of the service member are honored but also provides clear guidance to loved ones during times of crisis.
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