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The DD Form 93, commonly referred to as the Record of Emergency Data, plays a pivotal role in ensuring that military personnel and Department of Defense (DoD) civilians are prepared for unforeseen circumstances. This form serves multiple purposes, primarily aimed at designating beneficiaries for benefits in the event of a service member's death, and facilitating the notification process in emergencies. It captures essential information, including the names and addresses of individuals the service member wishes to be contacted in case of an emergency or death. Moreover, the form outlines how a service member's pay and allowances should be handled if they are captured, missing, or interned. For civilian personnel, the DD Form 93 streamlines the notification process, ensuring that loved ones are informed promptly during critical situations. Importantly, while the form requests personal identifiers, such as the Social Security Number (SSN) for accurate identification, providing this information is voluntary. However, neglecting to complete the form accurately can lead to delays in notifications and the processing of benefits for designated beneficiaries. The DD Form 93 is divided into two key sections: Emergency Contact Information and Benefits Related Information, each designed to gather pertinent details that reflect the service member's current circumstances and wishes. Keeping this form updated is not just a responsibility; it is an essential step in safeguarding the interests of both the service member and their loved ones.

Form Sample

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
1. NAME (Last, First, Middle Initial) 2. SSN
3a. SERVICE/CIVILIAN CATEGORY
b. REPORTING UNIT CODE/DUTY STATION
4a. SPOUSE NAME (If applicable) (Last, First, Middle Initial) b. ADDRESS (Include ZIP Code) AND TELEPHONE NUMBER
5. CHILDREN
a. NAME (Last, First, Middle Initial)
b. RELATIONSHIP
c. DATE OF BIRTH
(YYYYMMDD)
d. ADDRESS (Include ZIP Code) AND TELEPHONE NUMBER
DD FORM 93, JAN 2008
PREVIOUS EDITION IS OBSOLETE.
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.
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
ARMY NAVY
MARINE CORPS AIR FORCE
CIVILIAN CONTRACTORDoD
SINGLE DIVORCED WIDOWED
Adobe 7.0 Professional
IMPORTANT: This form is divided into two sections: Section 1 - Emergency Contact Information and Section 2 - Benefits Related
Information. READ THE INSTRUCTIONS ON PAGE
S 3 AND 4 BEFORE COMPLETING THIS FORM.
SECTION 1 - EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION
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
10. CONTRACTING AGENCY AND TELEPHONE NUMBER (Contractors only)
9a. DESIGNATED PERSON(S) (Military only)
b. ADDRESS (Include ZIP Code) AND TELEPHONE NUMBER
11a. BENEFICIARY(IES) FOR DEATH GRATUITY
(Military only)
c. ADDRESS (Include ZIP Code) AND TELEPHONE NUMBER d. PERCENTAGE
12a. BENEFICIARY(IES) FOR UNPAID PAY/ALLOWANCES
(Military only) NAME AND RELATIONSHIP
b. ADDRESS (Include ZIP Code) AND TELEPHONE NUMBER c. PERCENTAGE
13a. PERSON AUTHORIZED TO DIRECT DISPOSITION (PADD)
(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)
b. ADDRESS (Include ZIP Code) AND TELEPHONE NUMBER
SECTION 2 - BENEFITS RELATED INFORMATION
DD FORM 93 (BACK), JAN 2008
b. RELATIONSHIP
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.
DD FORM 93 (INSTRUCTIONS), JAN 2008
INSTRUCTIONS FOR PREPARING DD FORM 93
(See appropriate Service Directives for supplemental instructions for completion of this form at other than MEPS)
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.
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.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR PREPARING DD FORM 93
(Continued)
DD FORM 93 (INSTRUCTIONS) (BACK), JAN 2008
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.
⇩ PDF

Document Specifications

Fact Name Description
Authority The DD Form 93 is governed by multiple laws, including 5 USC 552, 10 USC 655, and 38 USC 1970, among others.
Purpose This form is used by military and Department of Defense personnel to designate beneficiaries and provide emergency contact information.
Voluntary Disclosure While providing information is voluntary, inaccuracies can delay emergency notifications and benefits processing.
Sections The form consists of two main sections: Emergency Contact Information and Benefits Related Information.
Emergency Contacts Service members can list family members and others to be notified in case of an emergency or death.
Beneficiary Designation Military personnel can designate beneficiaries for death gratuity and unpaid pay, specifying percentages for each beneficiary.
Updates Required It is essential for service members to keep their information current, especially after life changes like marriage or divorce.
Not Applicable for Civilians
Signature Requirement Both the service member and a witness must sign the form, confirming the accuracy of the information provided.

Steps to Filling Out Dd 93

Filling out the DD 93 form is crucial for ensuring that your emergency contacts and beneficiaries are clearly designated. This process requires attention to detail, as the information provided will be used in critical situations. Follow the steps below to complete the form accurately.

  1. Enter your full name in the format: Last, First, Middle Initial.
  2. Provide your Social Security Number (SSN).
  3. Indicate your service or civilian category by marking the appropriate box. If you are military, select your branch; if civilian, mark the relevant blocks.
  4. For spouse information, enter their name and mark their marital status (Single, Divorced, Widowed).
  5. Fill in the spouse's address and telephone number. Use the actual address, not a mailing address.
  6. List your children by entering their names, relationships, dates of birth, and addresses (if applicable).
  7. Provide your father's name and their address and telephone number. If unknown or deceased, state that clearly.
  8. Repeat the same for your mother: name, address, and telephone number.
  9. If there are individuals who should not be notified due to ill health, list their relationships. If none, state "None."
  10. Designate alternative contacts if necessary, following the same format as above.
  11. If applicable, provide the name and contact information for your contracting agency (for contractors only).
  12. For military personnel, list beneficiaries for death gratuity, including their names, relationships, addresses, and percentages to be allocated.
  13. Repeat the previous step for unpaid pay and allowances, if applicable.
  14. Designate a person authorized to direct disposition of your remains, including their name and relationship.
  15. Use the continuation/remarks section for any additional information or clarifications needed.
  16. Sign the form, including your rank, rate, or grade if applicable.
  17. Have a witness sign the form, including their rank, rate, or grade if appropriate.
  18. Finally, enter the date you signed the form.

More About Dd 93

What is the purpose of the DD 93 form?

The DD 93 form, also known as the Record of Emergency Data, serves multiple important purposes for military personnel and Department of Defense (DoD) civilians. For military members, it designates beneficiaries for certain benefits in the event of their death and provides guidance for the disposition of pay and allowances if they are captured, missing, or interned. It also lists emergency contacts who should be notified in case of an emergency or death. For DoD civilians, the form expedites notification processes during emergencies or deaths, ensuring that the right people are informed quickly.

Who needs to fill out the DD 93 form?

Military personnel and DoD civilian and contractor personnel are required to complete the DD 93 form. It is crucial for service members to keep this information up to date to reflect any changes in their family situation, such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of children. Civilians should also ensure that their emergency contact information is current to facilitate timely notifications in emergencies.

What information is required on the DD 93 form?

The DD 93 form is divided into two sections. The first section collects emergency contact information, including names, addresses, and relationships of the service member's spouse, children, and parents. The second section focuses on benefits-related information, such as designating beneficiaries for death gratuity and unpaid pay or allowances. Additionally, the form requires the service member's signature and that of a witness, along with the date of signing.

Is providing my Social Security Number mandatory?

While providing your Social Security Number (SSN) on the DD 93 form is encouraged for positive identification, it is not mandatory. However, failing to provide accurate personal identifier information may delay the notification process and the processing of benefits for designated beneficiaries. It is advisable to include the SSN to ensure smooth processing.

How often should I update my DD 93 form?

It is the responsibility of the service member or civilian to keep the DD 93 form updated. Changes should be made whenever there is a significant life event, such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or the death of a family member. Regularly reviewing and updating the form ensures that the information remains accurate and reflects the individual’s current wishes regarding beneficiaries and emergency contacts.

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

If the DD 93 form is not completed, it may lead to complications in emergency situations. Without accurate emergency contact information, notifications may be delayed, causing unnecessary stress during critical times. Additionally, failing to designate beneficiaries can complicate the distribution of benefits and pay in the event of the service member's death. It is crucial to complete and maintain this form to avoid such issues.

Can I make changes to the DD 93 form after it is submitted?

Yes, changes can be made to the DD 93 form after it has been submitted. It is important to keep the form current, so if there are any changes in your personal circumstances or preferences regarding beneficiaries or emergency contacts, you should fill out a new DD 93 form and submit it as soon as possible. This ensures that the most accurate information is available when needed.

Common mistakes

  1. Inaccurate Personal Information: Many individuals fail to provide accurate names, addresses, or Social Security Numbers (SSNs). This can lead to delays in processing benefits and notifications.

  2. Omitting Beneficiaries: Some people neglect to designate beneficiaries for death gratuity or unpaid pay/allowances. This oversight can complicate the distribution of funds after a service member's death.

  3. Not Updating Information: It's crucial to keep the form current. Changes in marital status, address, or family members should be reflected promptly to ensure accurate notifications.

  4. Ignoring Instructions: Failing to read the instructions carefully can result in incomplete or incorrect submissions. Each section has specific requirements that must be met.

  5. Using Incomplete Names: Some individuals provide only partial names or neglect to include middle initials. Full names are essential for clear identification.

  6. Incorrect Relationship Designations: Mislabeling relationships, such as calling a stepchild a biological child, can cause confusion and affect benefits distribution.

  7. Failing to Include Contact Information: Omitting addresses and phone numbers for emergency contacts can hinder timely notifications in case of an emergency.

  8. Not Using Proper Formatting: Entries should be legible and formatted correctly. For example, dates must be entered in the specified YYYYMMDD format.

  9. Forgetting Signatures: The form requires signatures from both the service member and a witness. Neglecting this step can render the form invalid.

  10. Leaving Non-Applicable Items Blank: Civilians often mistakenly fill in sections that do not apply to them, leading to unnecessary confusion.

Documents used along the form

The DD Form 93, known as the Record of Emergency Data, is a critical document for military personnel and Department of Defense civilians. It ensures that emergency contacts and beneficiary information are readily available in the event of a casualty. Alongside the DD Form 93, several other documents are often utilized to support the emergency notification and benefits process. Below is a list of these forms and a brief description of each.

  • DD Form 214: This form serves as a certificate of release or discharge from active duty. It provides essential information about the service member's time in the military, including their discharge status and any awards received. It is often required for accessing veteran benefits.
  • DD Form 1172: The Application for Uniformed Services Identification Card/DEERS Enrollment is used to apply for military identification cards. This form is crucial for dependents of service members to access healthcare and other benefits.
  • SF 1179: This form is the Request for Payment of Unpaid Compensation of Deceased Civilian Employees. It is utilized to request payment of any unpaid wages or allowances owed to a deceased civilian employee, ensuring that beneficiaries receive what they are entitled to.
  • DD Form 2656: This form is used for the election of survivor benefits for military retirees. It allows service members to designate beneficiaries for retirement benefits, ensuring financial support for loved ones after their passing.

Understanding these forms and their purposes can significantly impact the timely processing of benefits and notifications in emergency situations. Keeping them updated and accessible is essential for both service members and their families.

Similar forms

The DD Form 214, also known as the Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, serves a similar purpose to the DD Form 93 in that it provides essential information about a service member's military career. This form includes details such as the member's service dates, type of discharge, and any awards received. Like the DD Form 93, it plays a crucial role in determining eligibility for benefits and services after military service. Both forms require accurate personal information to ensure proper processing and benefits distribution.

The SF 1199A, Direct Deposit Sign-Up Form, is another important document that shares similarities with the DD Form 93. It is used to facilitate the direct deposit of payments, including retirement benefits, into a designated bank account. Both forms require personal identification information, such as Social Security numbers, to ensure that payments are correctly allocated. Timely submission of the SF 1199A can expedite financial transactions, much like how the DD Form 93 accelerates emergency notifications and benefits distribution.

The VA Form 21-526EZ, Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits, is essential for veterans seeking disability benefits. Similar to the DD Form 93, it requires detailed personal information and designations for beneficiaries. Both forms are pivotal in ensuring that service members and veterans receive the benefits they are entitled to in the event of injury or death. Accurate completion of the VA Form 21-526EZ is crucial for timely benefit approval, just as it is for the DD Form 93 in emergency situations.

The DD Form 2656, Data for Payment of Retired Personnel, is utilized by military retirees to provide information necessary for the calculation of retirement pay. Like the DD Form 93, it involves the designation of beneficiaries and requires personal information to ensure proper payment processing. Both forms aim to protect the interests of service members and their families, ensuring that benefits are distributed according to their wishes.

The SF 86, Questionnaire for National Security Positions, is used to gather information for security clearance purposes. While its primary focus is different from the DD Form 93, both forms require comprehensive personal information and references. The SF 86 ensures that individuals are suitable for positions of trust, similar to how the DD Form 93 ensures that emergency contacts and beneficiaries are appropriately designated in case of a casualty.

The DD Form 149, Application for Correction of Military Records, allows service members to request changes to their military records. This form parallels the DD Form 93 in that it requires the submission of personal details and may involve beneficiary information. Both forms can significantly impact the benefits and entitlements available to service members and their families, highlighting the importance of accurate and timely submission.

The DD Form 1172-2, Application for Uniformed Services Identification Card, is crucial for obtaining ID cards for military dependents. It, too, requires personal information and may involve designating beneficiaries or emergency contacts. Similar to the DD Form 93, the DD Form 1172-2 facilitates access to benefits and services, ensuring that family members can receive necessary support in various situations.

Finally, the DD Form 2766, Adult Preventive and Chronic Care Flowsheet, is utilized to maintain health records for service members. While primarily focused on health, it shares similarities with the DD Form 93 in that both forms collect vital personal information. Accurate health records can be critical in emergencies, just as the DD Form 93 ensures that the right people are notified in case of a casualty.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the DD 93 form, it's important to ensure that the information provided is accurate and complete. Here are some helpful tips on what to do and what to avoid:

  • Do read the instructions carefully before starting to fill out the form.
  • Do include full names, addresses, and relationships of all emergency contacts.
  • Do update the form regularly to reflect any changes in your family situation.
  • Do use black or blue-black ink if you are filling it out by hand.
  • Do ensure that all entries are legible and clear.
  • Don’t leave any required fields blank; if something doesn’t apply, indicate that clearly.
  • Don’t use P.O. Box addresses; provide actual residential addresses instead.
  • Don’t forget to sign and date the form after completing it.
  • Don’t include information that is not relevant or required for the form.

Misconceptions

Misconceptions about the DD Form 93 can lead to confusion and potential issues regarding emergency notifications and benefits. Here are five common misconceptions:

  • It’s only for military personnel. While primarily used by military members, the DD Form 93 is also applicable to Department of Defense civilian and contractor personnel. Civilians can use it to expedite emergency notifications just like military members.
  • It’s optional to complete. Completing the DD Form 93 is crucial. Although providing information is voluntary, not filling it out accurately can delay notifications and benefits for designated beneficiaries in case of an emergency.
  • All items on the form must be filled out. Not every item on the DD Form 93 is relevant to every individual. Civilians, for instance, can leave sections that do not apply to them blank, which helps streamline the process.
  • The form has legal implications on other documents. The DD Form 93 does not impact other forms you may have completed with the DoD or your employer. It serves a specific purpose for emergency notifications and beneficiary designations.
  • Once completed, it never needs updating. The information on the DD Form 93 should be kept current. Changes in marital status, family dynamics, or contact information require updates to ensure that the right people are notified in case of an emergency.

Understanding these misconceptions can help ensure that the DD Form 93 is used effectively and that emergency contacts and beneficiaries are accurately designated.

Key takeaways

Filling out the DD 93 form is an essential step for military and civilian personnel. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:

  • Purpose of the Form: The DD 93 form is used to designate beneficiaries and provide emergency contact information. It ensures that your loved ones are notified in case of an emergency or death.
  • Voluntary Disclosure: While providing information is voluntary, not filling it out accurately can delay notifications and benefits for your designated beneficiaries.
  • Keep It Updated: It is your responsibility to update the form whenever there are changes in your family status, such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child.
  • Two Sections: The form consists of two main sections: Emergency Contact Information and Benefits Related Information. Make sure to complete both sections as applicable.
  • Legal Considerations: If you are naming a minor child as a beneficiary, it is advisable to seek legal advice to ensure proper arrangements.
  • Signature Requirement: Both the service member and a witness must sign the form. This step is crucial for validating the information provided.

By keeping these points in mind, you can ensure that the DD 93 form serves its intended purpose effectively. Your attention to detail can make a significant difference for your loved ones during difficult times.