Last updated on May 3, 2026
Get the free Certificate of Discharge to Merchant Mariner
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What is Mariner Discharge Certificate
The Certificate of Discharge to Merchant Mariner is a government form used by mariners and vessel masters to document a mariner's discharge from a vessel.
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Mariner Discharge Certificate is needed by:
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Merchant Mariners seeking to formally document their discharge
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Vessel Masters required to certify discharge details
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Shipping companies needing to maintain compliance with maritime laws
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Legal professionals advising on maritime regulations
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Government agencies overseeing maritime safety and compliance
Comprehensive Guide to Mariner Discharge Certificate
What is the Certificate of Discharge to Merchant Mariner?
The Certificate of Discharge to Merchant Mariner, known as the CG-718A form, serves as an official document issued by the U.S. Coast Guard. This form is crucial for documenting a mariner's discharge from a vessel, ensuring accurate records and compliance with maritime laws. It is mandated by 46 USC 10311, making it an essential legal document for anyone leaving a vessel.
Purpose and Benefits of the CG-718A Form
The CG-718A form fulfills critical legal requirements for mariners. Failure to submit this form can lead to civil penalties, emphasizing its importance. This document not only serves to secure discharge records for mariners but also protects their rights and those of vessel operators, ensuring proper documentation during the transition from sea to shore.
Who Needs the Certificate of Discharge to Merchant Mariner?
The primary audience for the CG-718A includes both mariners and vessel masters. It is essential for any mariner who has completed their service on a vessel. Eligibility requires roles within maritime professions, as both parties are responsible for filling out and signing the form to validate the discharge accurately.
How to Fill Out the Certificate of Discharge to Merchant Mariner Online
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Access the form via pdfFiller.
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Fill in essential fields, such as 'Name of Mariner' and 'Date of Discharge'.
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Review each entry for accuracy to prevent potential delays.
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Utilize the editing tools available in pdfFiller for efficiency.
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Ensure digital signatures are added by both the mariner and the vessel master.
Field-by-Field Instructions for the CG-718A Form
Each section of the CG-718A form has specific expectations for information. Common fields include the mariner's name, the date of discharge, and signatures. Be mindful of typical mistakes, such as incorrect or missing entries, and ensure the digital signature section is properly completed as required.
Submission Methods for the Certificate of Discharge to Merchant Mariner
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Email the completed form to the designated Coast Guard office.
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Mail a hard copy to the appropriate address.
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Verify submission timelines to ensure compliance with regulation deadlines.
What Happens After You Submit the CG-718A Form?
Once submitted, the U.S. Coast Guard reviews the CG-718A form. The process includes verification of details and documentation compliance. Expect to wait for confirmation of receipt, and utilize tracking methods to monitor the status of your submission.
Security and Compliance When Handling the Certificate of Discharge
When managing sensitive documents like the CG-718A form, security is paramount. pdfFiller uses 256-bit encryption and adheres to HIPAA and GDPR standards, ensuring data protection and confidentiality for all users. Digital signatures also enhance security, fostering trust in document handling.
How pdfFiller Can Help You with the Certificate of Discharge
Using pdfFiller streamlines the process of completing and submitting the CG-718A form. Its user-friendly interface allows for easy text editing, signing, and form management. Creating an account on pdfFiller can also enhance document organization and accessibility, empowering users to manage their forms efficiently.
Sample of a Completed Certificate of Discharge to Merchant Mariner
A sample completed CG-718A form provides a useful reference for users. This annotated PDF illustrates correct completion and helps interpret each section's requirements. Download this template for personal use to guide you through the process of filling out the form accurately.
How to fill out the Mariner Discharge Certificate
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1.To start, visit pdfFiller and use the search function to locate the Certificate of Discharge to Merchant Mariner (CG-718A) form.
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2.Once found, click on the form to open it in the pdfFiller interface, where you can view all the fillable fields and instructions.
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3.Before filling out the form, gather necessary information, including the mariner's name, date of discharge, and place of discharge. Make sure to have documentation that verifies this information.
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4.Begin by clicking on the field labeled 'Name of Mariner' and enter the mariner's full name. Use appropriate capitalization for clarity.
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5.Next, locate the field for 'Place of Shipment' and input the location where the mariner is being discharged. Be specific to avoid any discrepancies.
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6.In the 'Date of Discharge' field, select the correct date by using the calendar feature or typing it manually. Ensure that the format matches the requirements.
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7.The 'Signature of Master' field requires the vessel master's name. Click to enter this information directly or select it from a verified list if available.
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8.After entering all required information, review the completed form for any inaccuracies. Use the preview feature to see how it looks when printed.
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9.Once satisfied, save your progress frequently. To finalize, click on the submission options available in pdfFiller.
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10.You can download a copy of the completed form in PDF format for your records, or opt to submit it electronically directly through pdfFiller, following any prompted steps to ensure submission is successful.
Who is eligible to complete the Certificate of Discharge to Merchant Mariner?
Eligibility to complete the Certificate of Discharge to Merchant Mariner includes any mariner being discharged from a vessel, as well as the vessel master responsible for signing the document.
What are the consequences of not submitting this discharge certificate?
Failing to submit the Certificate of Discharge to Merchant Mariner can lead to civil penalties under maritime law, emphasizing the importance of compliance with 46 USC 10311.
How should I submit the Certificate of Discharge to Merchant Mariner?
After completing the form, one copy should be provided to the mariner, another must be mailed to the U.S. Coast Guard, and one retained by the operating company for three years.
What supporting documents are required with this form?
Typically, no additional documents are required with the Certificate of Discharge itself, though mariners should have relevant identification and verification of service on hand if requested.
What mistakes should I avoid when filling out this form?
Common mistakes include incomplete fields, incorrect dates, and failing to obtain the necessary signatures from both the mariner and the vessel master before submitting the form.
Is there a processing time associated with this discharge certificate?
While the processing time varies, it is important that the form is submitted promptly to comply with regulations. Delays in submission may affect mariner's employment or service records.
Can the Certificate of Discharge to Merchant Mariner be filled out online?
Yes, the Certificate of Discharge to Merchant Mariner can be filled out online using pdfFiller, which provides easy navigation and completion options for the form.
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