How a General Discharge Can Impact Your Career and Why a Discharge Upgrade is Worth Pursuing
Leaving the military with a general discharge instead of an honorable one can have lasting effects on your civilian career. It may seem like an “Under Honorable Conditions” characterization isn’t so bad, but it can have lasting effects on your future. Whether you’re seeking employment, applying for federal benefits, or looking to re-enlist, your discharge status plays a crucial role. Fortunately, many service members may be eligible for an upgrade through the Discharge Review Board (DRB), and working with an experienced discharge upgrade attorney can significantly increase your chances of success.
How a General Discharge Affects Your Career
A general discharge (under honorable conditions) may not carry the same stigma as an other-than-honorable (OTH) or dishonorable discharge, but it still has consequences. Here’s how it can impact your future:
- Limited Access to VA Benefits – While you may still qualify for some VA benefits, a general discharge can restrict your access to the full range of healthcare, education, and disability compensation available to honorably discharged veterans. You can check your eligibility through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
- Reduced Employment Opportunities – Many employers prefer candidates with an honorable discharge, particularly for government and defense-related jobs. Some private employers also conduct background checks that reveal your discharge status.
- Hurdles in Re-Enlistment – If you plan to return to the military, a general discharge can make re-enlistment difficult, as each branch has its own policies on accepting prior service members with less-than-honorable discharges.
Why You Should Apply for a Discharge Upgrade
The Discharge Review Board (DRB) allows veterans to request a review of their discharge status if they believe it was unjust, erroneous, or the result of mitigating factors such as PTSD, TBI, or other service-related conditions. The process involves submitting evidence, documentation, and sometimes even presenting your case before the board.
Applying for a discharge upgrade can:
- Restore eligibility for full VA benefits
- Improve job prospects by removing discharge-related employment barriers
- Make it easier to obtain security clearances for government positions
To learn more about the DRB process, visit the official site for the Department of Defense Discharge Review Boards.
The Benefits of Hiring a Discharge Upgrade Lawyer
While you can apply for a discharge upgrade on your own, the process is complex and requires a strong legal argument backed by evidence. That’s where an experienced discharge upgrade attorney comes in.
A military lawyer who specializes in discharge upgrades can:
- Assess Your Case – A discharge upgrade lawyer can review your records and determine if you have a strong case for an upgrade.
- Gather Compelling Evidence – They can obtain service records, medical reports, and witness statements to strengthen your appeal.
- Prepare Legal Arguments – Experienced attorneys understand how to present your case effectively to the board, increasing your chances of approval.
- Represent You in Hearings – If your case requires a personal appearance, a lawyer can advocate on your behalf before the board.
Take Action Today
If your military discharge is holding you back from the benefits and opportunities you deserve, don’t wait. The sooner you begin the process, the better your chances of success. Consulting a knowledgeable discharge upgrade attorney can make all the difference in securing an honorable discharge and improving your future.
For more information on filing a discharge upgrade request, visit the National Archives’ guide to military discharge upgrades.