With cyber-crime and fraud on the rise, the Livingston County Clerk’s Office, in conjunction with the Office of Veteran Services, is reminding residents who served in the military to file their discharge paperwork, commonly known as a DD214, with the County Clerk’s Office as soon as possible.
“This document is vital for veterans and their families,” said David Terry, Director of Veteran Services. “Discharge papers, including a WDAGO 55 for those who served in World War II, are vital when trying to access any veteran or survivor benefits and must be filed with the Clerk’s Office in the County where the veteran resides or was first discharged from active-duty service according to Military Law Section 250.”
Recently, the County Clerk’s Office was made aware of attempts to defraud veterans by charging them to not only receive their DD214, but to file it with the Clerk’s Office. Military discharge paperwork is a sealed document and contains sensitive information, which could lead to identity theft.
“A veteran does not have to pay for a certified copy of their discharge paperwork, nor do they have to pay to securely file it with the County Clerk’s Office,” added Andrea Bailey who has served as the Livingston County Clerk since January. “These documents are only available to the veteran or an immediate family member should the veteran be deceased.”
As an added benefit in Livingston County, veterans who file their DD214 or other discharge paperwork will receive a Thank a Vet Identification Card, which entitles them to discounts at local businesses throughout the County and serves as a reminder of the County’s appreciation for their service.
“Our veterans are important to us and the County,” continued Bailey. “We want to make sure they know what resources are available to them.”
Questions about how to file a DD214 can be directed to the Livingston County Clerk’s Office by calling (585) 243-7017 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday. The Clerk’s Office is open from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. on Thursdays. Additionally, veterans are encouraged to email the Clerk’s Office or the Office of Veteran Services should they need further guidance.
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