Get Dd Form 397 2019-2025

Filling out the DD Form 397 online provides a streamlined method for individuals eligible to receive a death gratuity payment. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each section of the form, helping ensure accurate completion and submission.

Follow the steps to complete the DD Form 397 online effectively.

1. Click ‘Get Form’ button to obtain the form and open it in the editor.
2. In section 1, enter the bureau voucher number. This is necessary for tracking the claim within the appropriate office.
3. In section 2, fill in the D.O. voucher number as this will aid in proper identification of your claim.
4. Complete section 3 by entering the appropriation symbol and title, which is required for accounting purposes.
5. In section 5, accurately provide the full name and address of the payee who will receive the payment, including city, state, and ZIP code.
6. Move to section 6 and enter the service member's last name, first name, and middle initial.
7. In section 7, input the Social Security Number or DoD ID for the service member, as this information is vital for identification.
8. Fill out section 8 with the service member's grade at the time of death, which helps define their rank.
9. In section 9, provide the place where the service member passed away, which is an essential detail for the claim.
10. In section 10, record the date of death—ensure that the format is correct.
11. Section 11 requires you to state the amount of death gratuity due to the payee.
12. In section 12, check the appropriate box to indicate your relationship to the deceased service member.
13. If applicable, fill in section 13 with the names and addresses of the children of the decedent. If there are none, state that explicitly.
14. In section 14, indicate your relationship as a designated beneficiary. Provide this detail to help the processing of the claim.
15. Section 15 requires two witnesses to certify the signature of the payee. Both witnesses should provide their names and addresses.
16. Complete section 16 by including the typed name, title, and date of the individual who verified the eligibility of the beneficiary.
17. In section 17, choose the method of payment, either by check or electronic funds transfer. Fill out the relevant banking information accurately.
18. Finally, review all sections for accuracy, save your changes, and prepare to download or print the completed form for submission.

Complete your DD Form 397 online today to ensure timely processing of your claim.