How Long Do Discharge Upgrades Take? Realistic Timelines for DRB and BCMR (2026 Guide)
The short answer is that discharge upgrades usually take months, not weeks, and in some cases more than a year depending on the board, the complexity of the record, and how well the application is prepared. Veterans are often frustrated by vague answers like “it depends,” but there are predictable timeline ranges and identifiable factors that either speed a case up or slow it down. The biggest variable is preparation quality, which is why veterans who work with Gonzalez & Waddington generally move through the process more efficiently than those who file on their own and then spend months correcting avoidable mistakes.
Answer First: Typical Discharge Upgrade Timelines in 2026
| Board | Typical Timeline | Why This Range Exists | How Gonzalez & Waddington Helps |
|---|---|---|---|
| Discharge Review Board (DRB) | 6–12 months | Record review, scheduling, internal board backlog | We submit complete, board-ready packets that avoid requests for additional information |
| Board for Correction of Military Records (BCMR) | 12–24+ months | Broader authority, more complex records, higher volume of cases | We reduce delays by filing targeted correction requests with clear legal framing |
These ranges are realistic, not pessimistic, and they reflect what veterans actually experience. Gonzalez & Waddington sets expectations early so clients can plan their lives instead of being caught off guard by delays.
Why Discharge Upgrade Cases Take So Long
Boards process thousands of applications each year and must review complete service records, separation packets, and any supplemental evidence submitted. Delays usually occur because records are incomplete, the requested relief is unclear, the board has to ask for additional information, or the case involves complex issues such as court-martial history or medical mitigation. Gonzalez & Waddington reduces these delays by building cases that anticipate board questions and resolve them before filing.
Common Causes of Delay
- Missing separation packets or incomplete military records.
- Unclear or overly broad requests for relief.
- Applications filed in the wrong forum.
- Lack of nexus between evidence and the discharge decision.
- Requests for reconsideration after an initial denial.
Each of these problems is preventable. Our firm’s role is to eliminate friction so the board can decide the case without unnecessary back-and-forth.
What Speeds Up a Discharge Upgrade Case
While no lawyer can control board calendars, there are specific actions that consistently reduce processing time. The most important is submitting a complete, well-organized, legally framed packet the first time. Gonzalez & Waddington focuses on speed through precision, not shortcuts.
- Filing with the correct board based on the relief requested.
- Submitting a complete service and separation record.
- Presenting a clear error or injustice theory.
- Organizing exhibits with labels and summaries.
- Including medical and mental health evidence with a documented nexus.
- Avoiding emotional narratives that trigger clarification requests.
Veterans who file pro se often lose months responding to board requests for clarification or additional evidence. Gonzalez & Waddington’s approach is designed to avoid those delays.
Why Lawyer-Prepared Records Move Faster
Boards are not impressed by volume; they are persuaded by clarity. When an application looks like a professional legal filing rather than a collection of forms and letters, board staff can process it efficiently. Gonzalez & Waddington prepares upgrade submissions the same way we prepare litigation briefs, with structured arguments, indexed exhibits, and targeted requests that make board review easier rather than harder.
DRB Timelines Explained
Discharge Review Boards generally move faster than BCMRs because their authority is narrower and their review is more limited. Most DRB cases are decided within six to twelve months, assuming eligibility and a complete record. Delays occur when applicants submit partial files, request relief outside DRB authority, or later supplement the record. Gonzalez & Waddington screens DRB cases carefully so veterans do not waste their one opportunity on a weak filing.
BCMR Timelines Explained
BCMR cases take longer because they handle complex corrections, older records, and cases involving court-martial history or medical mitigation. Twelve to twenty-four months is common, and some cases take longer when advisory opinions are requested. Gonzalez & Waddington minimizes BCMR delays by narrowing the correction request to what the board can grant and supporting it with precise evidence rather than broad grievances.
Reconsideration and Supplemental Filings Add Time
If a board denies an application, a reconsideration request usually resets the clock. Veterans often underestimate how long this adds to the process. Gonzalez & Waddington focuses on getting the initial filing right to avoid years of additional delay.
Official Timeline References
FAQ: Discharge Upgrade Timelines
Can a discharge upgrade take less than six months?
It is possible but uncommon. Faster decisions usually involve simple records and narrowly targeted requests prepared correctly from the start.
Why do BCMR cases take longer than DRB cases?
BCMRs review broader issues, older records, and more complex corrections, which increases processing time.
Will hiring a lawyer make my case faster?
A lawyer cannot change board schedules, but a properly prepared case avoids delays caused by incomplete or unclear filings, which is how Gonzalez & Waddington helps cases move efficiently.
Can I check the status of my case?
Yes, but updates are often limited. Our firm manages status inquiries so clients are not left guessing.
What is the biggest mistake that causes delays?
Filing without the complete record or filing in the wrong forum.
Should I submit additional evidence later?
Only if strategically necessary. Late submissions often slow the process.
Is waiting ever a strategy?
No. The correct strategy is preparation, not delay.
We Handle the Waiting So You Don’t Gamble Your Future
Discharge upgrades require patience, but they should not require uncertainty. Gonzalez & Waddington manages the process from start to finish, sets realistic expectations, and builds cases designed to move through the system without avoidable delays. While boards take the time they take, the right preparation ensures that when your case is reviewed, it is ready to win.
➤ Speak with Gonzalez & Waddington about your discharge upgrade timeline
Discharge Upgrade Timelines – FAQ Schema
How long do discharge upgrades usually take?
Most DRB cases take six to twelve months, while BCMR cases commonly take twelve to twenty-four months or longer depending on complexity.
Why do some discharge upgrades take years?
Delays usually stem from incomplete records, unclear requests, wrong board selection, or reconsideration after denial.
Can a lawyer speed up a discharge upgrade?
A lawyer cannot control board calendars, but proper preparation avoids delays caused by deficient filings.
