TRUMBULL COUNTY, OH - Trumbull County Recorder Tod Latell and the Ohio Recorders' Association (ORA) urges veterans to be aware of exploitative practices targeting military veterans who are being charged for services that are available for free.

DD214 Direct, a company based in Arizona, is currently soliciting veterans in Ohio to purchase a copy of their DD214 form for a fee ranging from $79 to $99. 

While this practice may be legal, Recorder Latell and other County Recorders across Ohio want to ensure that veterans are informed about the free services they are entitled to.

Veterans can obtain a free copy of their military records through their local Veteran's Service Commission as well as record their DD214 at their local County Recorder's office at no charge. The DD214 form is essential for veterans to access benefits like VA loans, disability compensation, and reduced medical costs.

In recent months, Recorders offices across Ohio have received DD214 forms (paid for by veterans) from DD214 Direct through the mail, along with a limited Power of Attorney granting the Recorder the authority to file both documents on behalf of the veteran. 

After receiving several of these documents in the mail earlier this year, Latell brought it to the attention of the ORA Legislative Committee which he serves on.

To safeguard veterans from exploitative, unnecessary fees and inform the public, the ORA is working to raise awareness among veterans about these practices. Furthermore, the ORA is currently looking into potential legislation aimed at regulating companies like DD214 Direct and mandating the disclosure of the availability of these services at no charge.

In addition to contacting your local Veteran's Service Commission for help, Veterans can also request a copy of their DD214 from the National Archives website.