A General Discharge (Under Honorable Conditions) is a type of administrative discharge given to service members who have completed their military service but did not meet the standards required for an Honorable Discharge. While a General Discharge is not as damaging as an Other Than Honorable (OTH) Discharge, it can still impact a former service member’s eligibility for VA benefits, reenlistment, and civilian employment.
Whether you are in the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Navy, or Space Force, understanding how a General Discharge compares to other types of military discharge, including Honorable Discharges and punitive discharges, is essential when you are facing separation or you want to improve your discharge status.
This article explains what a General Discharge is, how it affects veterans’ benefits, and what options exist for those seeking a discharge upgrade.
What Is a General Discharge?
A General Discharge (Under Honorable Conditions) is awarded to enlisted service members and commissioned officers whose service was satisfactory but not exemplary. While the service member did not engage in serious offenses on active duty that warrant an Other Than Honorable Discharge or a punitive discharge, certain performance or disciplinary issues prevented them from receiving an Honorable Discharge.
Common Reasons for a General Discharge
Each branch of the U.S. military applies its standards when issuing a General Discharge, but common reasons include:
- Failure to meet performance or fitness standards – Inability to pass physical fitness tests or meet job performance expectations.
- Minor disciplinary infractions – Repeated violations of military regulations, such as tardiness or insubordination.
- Substance abuse issues – Some cases of drug or alcohol-related offenses may result in a General Discharge instead of an OTH Discharge.
- Failure to adapt to military life – Difficulty adjusting to military justice or discipline, personal problems, or behavioral issues.
While a General Discharge is not as severe as an Other Than Honorable Discharge, it is important to understand how it compares to other types of military discharge.
How a General Discharge Compares to Other Types of Military Discharges
Honorable Discharge vs. General Discharge
An Honorable Discharge is the most favorable characterization of service, indicating that the service member met or exceeded the military’s standards for duty performance, conduct, and integrity. A General Discharge, while still issued under honorable conditions, reflects some shortcomings in performance or behavior.
Key Differences:
- An Honorable Discharge grants full VA benefits, including GI Bill education benefits and VA home loan eligibility.
- A General Discharge limits certain benefits, particularly education benefits under the GI Bill.
- Employment opportunities may be more favorable for those with an Honorable Discharge, especially in government, with the Department of Defense, or with law enforcement.
General Discharge vs. Other Than Honorable (OTH) Discharge
An Under Other Than Honorable Conditions (OTH) Discharge is a more severe form of administrative discharge given for serious misconduct, such as security violations or repeated infractions.
Key Differences:
- A General Discharge allows access to some VA benefits (such as VA home loans and medical care).
- An OTH Discharge results in the loss of most VA benefits, including VA health care and disability compensation.
- Reenlistment in the military is often possible with a General Discharge, but an OTH Discharge usually prevents rejoining the armed forces.
General Discharge vs. Punitive Discharge
Unlike administrative discharges, punitive discharges result from a court-martial conviction. These include:
- Bad Conduct Discharge (BCD) – Issued after a special court-martial or general court-martial for misconduct, such as desertion or drug offenses.
- Dishonorable Discharge – The most severe type of discharge, given after a general court-martial for serious offenses under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), such as murder or treason.
A General Discharge, while less than ideal, does not carry the legal and lifelong consequences of a punitive discharge.
How a General Discharge Affects Your Future
A General Discharge does not carry the same stigma as an Other Than Honorable Discharge or a punitive discharge, but it does come with consequences.
1. Limited VA Benefits
Veterans with a General Discharge qualify for some Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits, but certain programs are restricted.
- GI Bill education benefits – A General Discharge typically disqualifies a veteran from the Post-9/11 GI Bill and Montgomery GI Bill.
- VA healthcare – Eligibility for VA medical care depends on the reason for separation.
- VA home loans and disability benefits – Veterans with a General Discharge can typically still receive VA home loans and compensation for service-related injuries.
2. Civilian Employment Challenges
While a General Discharge is better than an OTH Discharge, it may still affect civilian employment.
- Some federal and state government jobs require an Honorable Discharge to qualify for veterans’ preference.
- Certain law enforcement jurisdictions and security jobs may disqualify candidates with a General Discharge.
- Some private employers may view a General Discharge as a red flag, depending on the reason for separation.
3. Reenlistment Restrictions
A General Discharge may limit a former service member’s ability to reenlist in the military. While reenlistment policies vary by branch, many require a waiver for those with a General Discharge.
Can a General Discharge Be Upgraded?
Yes, veterans who believe their General Discharge was unjust or improperly issued may request a discharge upgrade through their branch’s Discharge Review Board (DRB).
Steps to Request a Discharge Upgrade
- Gather supporting evidence – Military records, performance evaluations, and character references can support a case for an upgrade.
- Submit an application (DD Form 293) – Veterans must apply to their branch’s Discharge Review Board.
- Attend a hearing (if applicable) – Some cases require an in-person or virtual hearing.
- Await the board’s decision – If sufficient evidence is provided, the board may upgrade the General Discharge to Honorable.
Some vets may qualify for an automatic review if they received a General Discharge due to mental health conditions, PTSD, or military sexual trauma (MST).
Need Help Fighting a General Discharge? Contact Us Today
If you are facing a General Discharge or want to request a discharge upgrade, legal representation is crucial. At The Military Defense Firm, we specialize in defending service members against involuntary separation and unfair discharges.
Schedule a free consultation today to discuss your case. Don’t let a General Discharge limit your future—get the legal support you deserve.
