By 1808Delaware
Veterans in Ohio have an opportunity to obtain a free Vet ID card at the Delaware County Fair this week. From September 16 to September 20, Delaware County Recorder Melissa Jordan, who originally launched this program in March 2014, will be offering veterans a no-cost chance to secure their Document Identification Card (Vet ID).
This card serves as an important and convenient way for veterans to prove their eligibility for various benefits, eliminating the need to carry the larger and cumbersome certified copy of their DD 214 discharge papers.
The Importance of the Vet ID Card
The Vet ID card simplifies how veterans can verify their status, especially when applying for state or federal benefits. Instead of relying on the certified DD 214 document, the Vet ID card is compact, easily accessible, and still contains all the essential information to ensure that veterans can access the services they need.
In Ohio, county recorders like Jordan are responsible for maintaining and safeguarding veterans’ discharge records, making this card an efficient alternative.
How Veterans Can Get Their Free Card
For those interested in getting their Vet ID card at the fair, here’s what to do:
- What to bring:
- Veterans need to provide an original or certified copy of their military discharge papers (DD 214).
- They must also bring two forms of valid ID (at least one of which must be a photo ID).
- Acceptable forms of identification include:
- Birth certificate
- U.S. military ID
- Social security card
- Driver’s license
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs ID
- Valid passport
- State-issued conceal carry license
- Acceptable forms of identification include:
- Where to go:
- The Recorder’s booth will be located in the Fairgrounds Coliseum, and veterans can visit between 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM daily during the fair. This is the only location providing the service next week, as the Delaware County Recorder’s office will temporarily suspend in-office Vet ID services during this period.
Veterans Who Already Filed
If a veteran has already filed their discharge records with the Delaware County Recorder’s Office, they won’t need to refile. The office staff can check filing status on-site at the fair and issue the card. Veterans can also get replacements for expired Delaware County-issued cards at no cost. After next week, veterans can continue using this service at the Recorder’s regular office located at 145 N. Union St., on the first floor of the Hayes Building.
Delaware County Recorder Veteran Services
Beyond the fair, the Delaware County Recorder’s Office offers a number of veteran services, including:
- Military Discharge Document Recording: Veterans are encouraged to record their DD 214s for safekeeping. This service comes at no cost, and upon recording, veterans will receive their original document back, along with an additional certified copy. The office also ensures that all Social Security numbers are redacted to protect the veteran’s identity.
- Veterans ID Cards: Veterans who have recorded their discharge papers with the office and were honorably discharged can obtain the Veteran Identification Card, which is valid throughout the state of Ohio. This card contains a photograph of the veteran and details about their military service, including service dates and their document number for quick access to their records. Typically, there’s a $1.00 fee for the card outside of the fair week.
Image: DALL-E 3
