What is DD Form 1173 Used For? Understanding Its Purpose and Benefits

Definition and Purpose of DD Form 1173

DD Form 1173 is officially known as the Uniformed Services Identification and Privilege Card. This card is issued to dependents of active-duty and retired military personnel, granting them access to various military benefits and services. The primary purpose of this form is to serve as proof of eligibility for healthcare services, access to military facilities, and other privileges associated with being a dependent of a service member.

For example, a spouse of an active-duty service member can use the DD Form 1173 to obtain medical care through TRICARE, which is the health care program for uniformed service members, retirees, and their families. Additionally, it allows access to commissaries, exchanges, and Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) facilities.

Eligibility Criteria for DD Form 1173

Eligibility for obtaining a DD Form 1173 primarily includes dependents of active-duty military members and retired service members. This encompasses:

• Spouses: The wife or husband of a service member is eligible for the card.
• Children: Biological, adopted, or stepchildren of the service member can receive this identification.
• Other Dependents: In some cases, dependents of Department of Defense (DoD) civilian employees or contractors may also qualify.

It is important to note that eligibility requirements may vary slightly based on the service branch and specific circumstances. For instance, a child must be under the age of twenty-one, or under the age of twenty-three if enrolled in college.

How to Obtain DD Form 1173

To obtain a DD Form 1173, dependents must follow a specific process, which includes several steps:

1. Sponsor's Enrollment: The service member must first register their dependent in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS).
2. Application Submission: The dependent and the sponsor must complete DD Form 1172-2, which serves as the application for the identification card and DEERS enrollment.
3. ID Card Issuance: After completing the application, the dependent must visit a Real Time Automated Personnel Identification System (RAPIDS) ID card issuing site to receive the DD Form 1173.

This process ensures that all information is verified and that only eligible individuals receive the identification card.

How to Fill Out DD Form 1173

Filling out DD Form 1173 requires careful attention to detail. The form typically includes sections for personal information, relationship to the service member, and verification of eligibility. Here’s a breakdown of how to complete it:

• Personal Information: Fill in the full name, date of birth, and Social Security number of the dependent.
• Service Member Information: Include the service member's full name, rank, and Social Security number.
• Relationship: Clearly indicate the relationship to the service member, such as spouse or child.

After completing the form, it must be reviewed for accuracy before submission to ensure that all information is correct and up to date.

Renewal Process for DD Form 1173

Renewing a DD Form 1173 is essential to maintain access to military benefits. The renewal process typically involves the following steps:

1. Check Expiration Date: The DD Form 1173 usually has an expiration date, and dependents should be aware of when it is due for renewal.
2. Re-Verification in DEERS: Dependents may need to be re-verified in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) to ensure continued eligibility.
3. Submit Renewal Application: Complete the DD Form 1172-2 again, if necessary, and submit it at a RAPIDS site for reissuance of the DD Form 1173.

It is advisable to start this process well before the expiration date to avoid any lapse in benefits.

Who Uses DD Form 1173?

The primary users of the DD Form 1173 are dependents of military service members. This includes:

• Active-Duty Dependents: Spouses and children of active-duty personnel who require access to military facilities and healthcare.
• Retired Service Members' Dependents: Family members of retired military personnel who continue to utilize military benefits.
• Eligible DoD Dependents: In some cases, dependents of DoD civilian employees may also use this form.

Each user group has specific rights and privileges associated with the DD Form 1173, ensuring they can access necessary services and support.

Key Elements of DD Form 1173

Understanding the key elements of DD Form 1173 is crucial for users. Some important components include:

• Identification: The card serves as official identification for dependents when accessing military installations.
• Healthcare Access: It grants access to medical services through TRICARE and other military health facilities.
• Facility Access: Holders can enter commissaries, exchanges, and MWR facilities, which provide various services and products.

Each of these elements plays a significant role in ensuring that dependents can fully utilize their entitled benefits.

Examples of Using DD Form 1173

DD Form 1173 is utilized in various scenarios that highlight its importance. Some examples include:

• Medical Appointments: A spouse uses the DD Form 1173 to schedule and attend medical appointments at a military treatment facility.
• Shopping at Commissaries: A dependent uses the card to shop at a military commissary, benefiting from reduced prices on groceries and household items.
• Accessing Base Facilities: Children may use the card to participate in youth programs and activities offered on military bases.

These examples illustrate how the DD Form 1173 facilitates access to essential services and supports the well-being of military families.