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The DD 93 form, also known as the Record of Emergency Data, plays a crucial role for military personnel and their families. This document is essential for ensuring that a service member's critical information is readily available in case of an emergency. It captures vital details such as the service member's personal information, emergency contacts, and beneficiary designations. The form is not only important for the individual but also serves to protect the interests of loved ones during challenging times. Completing the DD 93 accurately is vital, as it can impact benefits and entitlements. Regular updates to this form are necessary to reflect any changes in personal circumstances, ensuring that the information remains current and relevant. Understanding the significance of the DD 93 form can help service members and their families navigate emergency situations with greater ease and confidence.

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 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

File Breakdown

Fact Name Description
Purpose The DD Form 93 is used to record emergency contact information for military personnel.
Who Uses It This form is completed by members of the United States Armed Forces.
Importance It helps ensure that the military can contact designated individuals in case of emergencies.
Contents The form includes sections for personal information, emergency contacts, and beneficiary designations.
Submission Service members must submit the DD 93 to their personnel office.
Updates It is crucial to update the form whenever there are changes in personal circumstances or contact information.
Governing Law The use of this form is governed by Department of Defense regulations.
Retention The form is kept in the service member's personnel file for future reference.
Digital Availability The DD 93 form can be accessed online through official military websites.
Privacy Information on the DD 93 is protected under privacy laws to safeguard personal data.

Guide to Using DD 93

Completing the DD 93 form is an important step in ensuring that your personal information is accurately recorded. This information will be used to manage your benefits and assist your family in case of emergencies. Follow these steps to fill out the form correctly.

  1. Begin by entering your full name in the designated section at the top of the form.
  2. Provide your Social Security Number (SSN) in the next field.
  3. Fill in your date of birth, using the format MM/DD/YYYY.
  4. Complete your home address, including city, state, and ZIP code.
  5. Indicate your phone number, including area code.
  6. In the section regarding emergency contacts, list the names and contact information of individuals you wish to designate.
  7. Specify your relationship to each emergency contact.
  8. Provide details about your beneficiary, including their full name, relationship, and contact information.
  9. Sign and date the form at the bottom to validate your information.

Once you have completed the DD 93 form, review it carefully to ensure all information is accurate. This will help prevent any delays in processing your information. After confirming that everything is correct, submit the form to the appropriate military personnel office or designated authority.

Get Answers on DD 93

What is the DD Form 93?

The DD Form 93, also known as the Record of Emergency Data, is a crucial document used by military personnel. It collects important information about service members’ emergency contacts and beneficiaries. This form ensures that, in the event of an emergency, the military can quickly reach the appropriate individuals and provide them with necessary information.

Who needs to complete the DD Form 93?

All active duty, reserve, and National Guard members are required to complete the DD Form 93. This form is particularly important for those who are deploying or changing their duty status. It is essential for ensuring that the military has up-to-date information regarding a service member’s emergency contacts and beneficiaries.

How often should the DD Form 93 be updated?

The DD Form 93 should be updated regularly, especially when there are significant life changes. Changes such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or the death of a beneficiary should prompt an update. It is advisable to review and update this form at least annually or whenever personal circumstances change.

Where can I obtain a DD Form 93?

The DD Form 93 can be obtained from various sources. Service members can access it through their unit’s administrative office or download it from the official Department of Defense website. Additionally, many military installations provide copies of this form at their personnel offices.

What information is required on the DD Form 93?

The DD Form 93 requires several key pieces of information, including:

  • Service member's personal information (name, rank, and Social Security number)
  • Emergency contact details (names, addresses, and phone numbers)
  • Beneficiary designations for various benefits
  • Information about dependents, if applicable

This information is vital for ensuring that the right individuals are notified in emergencies and that benefits are distributed correctly.

What happens if I fail to complete the DD Form 93?

Failure to complete the DD Form 93 can lead to complications during emergencies. If a service member does not have this form on file, the military may struggle to contact the appropriate family members or beneficiaries. This could result in delays in delivering critical information or benefits. Therefore, it is in a service member’s best interest to complete and update this form as necessary.

Can I fill out the DD Form 93 electronically?

Yes, the DD Form 93 can be filled out electronically in many instances. Many military personnel systems allow for electronic completion and submission. However, it is important to ensure that the form is printed and signed if required by your unit’s policies. Always check with your unit’s administrative office for specific instructions regarding electronic submissions.

Common mistakes

Filling out the DD 93 form, also known as the Record of Emergency Data, is a crucial task for service members. However, many individuals make common mistakes that can lead to complications. One frequent error is failing to update the form regularly. Life changes, such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child, can significantly impact the emergency contact information. If the form is not updated, the military may not be able to reach the right people in a time of need.

Another common mistake is providing incomplete information. Each section of the DD 93 form is designed to gather specific details. Omitting essential information, such as a contact's full name or relationship to the service member, can create confusion. It’s important to double-check that all fields are filled out accurately and completely to ensure that the form serves its intended purpose.

Additionally, some individuals mistakenly think that the form only needs to be filled out once. In reality, it should be reviewed and revised whenever there are significant life changes. This oversight can lead to outdated or incorrect information being on file. Service members should take the time to review their DD 93 form regularly, ensuring that all details are current and reflect their current circumstances.

Lastly, not understanding the importance of the DD 93 form can lead to mistakes. This form is more than just a bureaucratic requirement; it serves as a vital document for emergency situations. Service members should recognize its significance and treat the completion of the DD 93 form with the seriousness it deserves. By doing so, they can ensure that their loved ones are properly informed and contacted in case of an emergency.

Documents used along the form

The DD 93 form, also known as the Record of Emergency Data, is a crucial document for military personnel. It provides essential information regarding a service member's beneficiaries and emergency contacts. However, there are several other forms and documents that often accompany the DD 93, each serving a specific purpose in the context of military service and benefits. Below is a list of these important documents.

  • DD Form 214: This document serves as a certificate of release or discharge from active duty. It summarizes a service member's military service, including dates of service, awards, and any other relevant information.
  • SF 1199A: The Direct Deposit Sign-Up Form allows service members to authorize the electronic transfer of their pay and benefits directly into their bank accounts, ensuring timely access to funds.
  • DD Form 2656: The Data for Payment of Retired Personnel form is used by retiring service members to provide information necessary for retirement pay, including beneficiary designations and payment options.
  • VA Form 21-526EZ: This is the Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits. It is used by veterans to apply for disability benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs.
  • DD Form 93-1: This form is an extension of the DD 93, specifically designed for members of the Army National Guard and the Army Reserve. It helps document emergency data in a similar manner.
  • AF Form 1042: The Medical Recommendation for Flying Duty form is utilized by Air Force personnel to certify their medical fitness for flight duties, ensuring that only healthy individuals are assigned to these critical roles.
  • DA Form 2823: The Sworn Statement form is often used to document statements made by individuals during investigations or inquiries, providing a written record that can be referenced later.

Understanding these documents and their purposes can greatly assist service members and their families in navigating the complexities of military benefits and emergency situations. Each form plays a vital role in ensuring that service members receive the support and resources they need throughout their careers and beyond.

Similar forms

The DD 93 form, also known as the Record of Emergency Data, is a crucial document used by military personnel to provide essential information regarding their emergency contacts and beneficiaries. Several other documents serve similar purposes, ensuring that individuals can convey important information regarding their personal and financial affairs. Below are four documents that share similarities with the DD 93 form:

  • SF 1174 - Claim for Unpaid Compensation of Deceased Member of the Uniformed Services: This form is used to claim any unpaid compensation owed to a deceased service member. Like the DD 93, it requires details about beneficiaries and the deceased's financial affairs, ensuring that the right individuals receive the funds.
  • DD Form 214 - Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty: This document provides a summary of a service member's military career and includes information about their discharge status. Similar to the DD 93, it contains vital personal information and is important for beneficiaries, especially when applying for veteran benefits.
  • DD Form 2656 - Data for Payment of Retired Personnel: This form is used by retired service members to provide information necessary for the payment of retirement benefits. It includes details about beneficiaries, much like the DD 93, to ensure that the right individuals receive the retirement funds in the event of the retiree's passing.
  • Form W-4 - Employee's Withholding Certificate: While primarily used for tax purposes, this form allows employees to designate beneficiaries for certain benefits. It shares the characteristic of requiring personal information and beneficiary designations, similar to how the DD 93 collects emergency contact details.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the DD 93 form, it is important to follow specific guidelines to ensure accuracy and completeness. Below is a list of things to do and avoid during this process.

Things You Should Do:

  • Read the instructions carefully before starting.
  • Provide accurate and up-to-date personal information.
  • Include all relevant emergency contact details.
  • Review your entries for any errors or omissions.
  • Sign and date the form at the designated area.

Things You Shouldn't Do:

  • Do not leave any required fields blank.
  • Do not use abbreviations or shorthand that may cause confusion.
  • Do not provide outdated contact information.
  • Do not forget to keep a copy of the completed form for your records.

Misconceptions

The DD 93 form, also known as the Record of Emergency Data, is an important document for military personnel. However, there are several misconceptions surrounding this form. Below are some common misunderstandings:

  • It is only for active-duty members. The DD 93 form is used by both active-duty and reserve members, ensuring that all service members have their emergency contact information recorded.
  • Once completed, it never needs to be updated. This form should be updated regularly, especially after significant life changes such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child.
  • It only includes contact information. In addition to contact details, the DD 93 form contains vital information regarding beneficiaries and medical preferences.
  • It is not a legal document. The DD 93 is indeed a legal document that can influence decisions regarding benefits and emergency situations.
  • Submitting the form is optional. For service members, completing and submitting the DD 93 form is mandatory to ensure proper emergency response.
  • It is the same as a will. While the DD 93 addresses emergency contacts and beneficiaries, it does not replace a will or estate planning documents.
  • Only the service member can fill it out. Family members or designated representatives can assist in completing the form, ensuring accurate information is provided.

Understanding these misconceptions can help ensure that the DD 93 form is used correctly and effectively. Keeping this document up to date is essential for the safety and well-being of service members and their families.

Key takeaways

The DD 93 form, also known as the Record of Emergency Data, is an important document for military personnel. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind when filling it out and using it:

  • Purpose: The DD 93 form is used to collect essential information about a service member’s emergency contacts and preferences regarding benefits in case of injury or death.
  • Accuracy: It is crucial to provide accurate and up-to-date information. This ensures that the right people are contacted in an emergency and that benefits are distributed correctly.
  • Review Regularly: Service members should review their DD 93 form regularly, especially after significant life changes such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child.
  • Submission: Once completed, the form must be submitted to the appropriate personnel office. This is typically done during in-processing or annual updates.
  • Access: The information on the DD 93 form is confidential. Only authorized personnel should have access to it, protecting the privacy of the service member and their family.
  • Impact: The choices made on the DD 93 form can significantly affect the benefits and support provided to family members in the event of a tragedy.