5 Ways To Determine Army Service Length

The length of service in the army can be a crucial factor in determining various benefits, pay, and even career advancement. Whether you're an active-duty soldier, a veteran, or a family member of a service member, understanding how to calculate army service length can be essential. In this article, we'll explore five ways to determine army service length and provide you with a comprehensive guide on the topic.

Understanding Army Service Length

Before we dive into the five ways to determine army service length, it's essential to understand what it entails. Army service length, also known as "time in service," refers to the total amount of time a soldier has served in the army. This includes active-duty service, reserve service, and even time spent in the National Guard.

Method 1: Calculate Time in Service Using DD Form 214

One of the most common ways to determine army service length is by using the DD Form 214, also known as the Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty. This form provides a comprehensive overview of a soldier's service, including their dates of service, rank, and total time in service.

To calculate time in service using the DD Form 214, you'll need to locate the following information:

• Date of Entry into Active Duty (DEAD)
• Date of Separation
• Type of Discharge

Using this information, you can calculate the total time in service by subtracting the DEAD from the Date of Separation.

Method 2: Use the Army's Online Personnel System

The Army's Online Personnel System, also known as the Army Human Resources System (AHRS), provides soldiers with access to their personnel records, including their service length. To use this method, you'll need to follow these steps:

• Log in to the AHRS website using your Common Access Card (CAC) or username and password
• Click on the "My Records" tab
• Select "Service Length" from the drop-down menu

The AHRS system will provide you with your total time in service, including active-duty and reserve service.

Method 3: Contact the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA)

If you're having trouble accessing your personnel records or need to verify your service length, you can contact the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). NARA is responsible for maintaining the official personnel records of all military service members.

To request your service length information from NARA, you'll need to follow these steps:

• Visit the NARA website and fill out the SF-180 form
• Provide proof of identity and authorization
• Submit the form to NARA via mail or email

NARA will provide you with your total time in service, including active-duty and reserve service.

Method 4: Use the Army's Retirement Points Accounting System

The Army's Retirement Points Accounting System (RPAS) provides soldiers with a comprehensive overview of their retirement points, including their service length. To use this method, you'll need to follow these steps:

• Log in to the RPAS website using your CAC or username and password
• Click on the "My Records" tab
• Select "Service Length" from the drop-down menu

The RPAS system will provide you with your total time in service, including active-duty and reserve service.

Method 5: Contact Your Local Veterans Service Organization

If you're a veteran or the family member of a service member, you can contact your local Veterans Service Organization (VSO) for assistance with determining your service length. VSOs are trained to help veterans navigate the complex process of obtaining benefits and can provide guidance on calculating service length.

To find your local VSO, you can visit the Department of Veterans Affairs website and use their VSO locator tool.

Gallery of Army Service Length

Army Service Length Image Gallery

We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive guide on determining army service length. Whether you're an active-duty soldier, a veteran, or a family member of a service member, understanding how to calculate service length is essential for accessing benefits, pay, and career advancement. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out to us in the comments below.