What is a bad conduct discharge from the Marines?

A “Bad Conduct Discharge” constitutes a punitive discharge given to enlisted Marines by a general or special court-martial. Marines who commit serious offenses, such as drug abuse, aggravated assault or grand theft, for which they serve time in a “brig,” or military prison are issued the bad conduct discharge.

What are the consequences of a bad conduct discharge?

What are the consequences of a bad conduct discharge? Military members who receive a bad conduct discharge are ineligible for GI Bill benefits, VA housing programs, and are unable to join any branch of the military in the future. Most of the veteran’s benefits are forfeited with a bad conduct discharge.

What does a bad conduct discharge mean?

Unlike an administrative discharge, a Bad Conduct Discharge (BCD) is a punitive discharge that can only be given by a court-martial (either Special or General) as punishment to an enlisted service-member. Bad conduct discharges are often preceded by a period of confinement in a military prison.

Can you vote with a bad conduct discharge?

When members of the military are dishonorably discharged, Vet Verify explains, they lose all veterans’ benefits, and are forbidden from owning a firearm, working for the government and taking out bank loans. Often, they also lose the right to vote and accept federal assistance as a civilian.

Is bad conduct discharge the same as dishonorable?

A BCD and a Dishonorable Discharge are not the same types of discharge. Both are similar as they are punitive in nature. However, a dishonorable (DD) happens after a general court-martial, and it is more severe than a bad conduct discharge. A DD is like a felony conviction as a civilian.

What is a bad conduct discharge from the military?

A Bad Conduct Discharge comes as the result of a court-martial and may be followed by prison time depending on the nature and severity of the conduct. This type of military discharge is not considered an administrative one and is a barrier to future military service.

Can you get VA benefits with a bad conduct discharge?

Veterans Benefits Administration However, individuals receiving undesirable, bad conduct, and other types of dishonorable discharges may qualify for VA benefits depending on a determination made by VA.

Can I buy a gun with a bad conduct discharge?

8. Can You Own a Gun with a Bad Conduct Discharge? No, you may not own a gun with a Bad Conduct Discharge. The Agency of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF) determines that service members discharged from any military branch with dishonorable conditions may not buy or possess firearms.

Can you join the military with a bad conduct discharge?

There are several types of discharges that can keep you from re-enlisting in the service, including a bad conduct discharge, an “other than honorable discharge” and a dishonorable discharge. On the other hand, if you received a general or honorable discharge, you may qualify for re-enlistment.