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The DA 31 form plays a crucial role in the leave process for military personnel, serving as the official request and authority for various types of leave. This form is governed by the Privacy Act of 1974, ensuring that personal information remains protected. It is essential for service members to fill out this form accurately, as it includes key details such as the requestor's name, rank, and DOD ID, along with the specific type of leave being requested—whether it’s annual leave, emergency leave, or even leave related to a permanent change of station. The form also requires the requestor to provide their leave address and contact information, which helps in maintaining communication throughout the leave period. Additionally, supervisors and approving authorities must review and sign the form, indicating their approval or disapproval of the request. This collaborative process not only streamlines the leave approval system but also ensures that all necessary checks are in place to support military readiness. Understanding how to navigate the DA 31 form is vital for service members seeking time away from their duties.

Key takeaways

When filling out the DA Form 31, it’s essential to pay attention to detail. Here are some key takeaways to ensure a smooth process:

  • Understand the Purpose: The DA Form 31 is used to request and authorize leave. It’s crucial for both the requester and the approving authority.
  • Privacy Considerations: This form is subject to the Privacy Act of 1974. Handle it with care to protect personal information.
  • Accurate Information: Fill in your name, DOD ID, and rank accurately. Mistakes can delay the approval process.
  • Leave Type Selection: Clearly indicate the type of absence. Options include chargeable, non-chargeable, and various leave types like emergency leave or terminal leave.
  • Dates Matter: Specify the exact dates for your leave request. Ensure the "FROM" and "TO" dates are correct to avoid confusion.
  • Signature Requirements: The requestor must sign the form. If unavailable, a supervisor can sign on their behalf.
  • Approval Process: After submitting the form, it will go through a recommendation by the supervisor and an approval by the authority. Be patient as this process can take time.
  • Extensions: If you need to extend your leave, additional signatures and dates are required. Make sure to follow the proper procedure.
  • Keep Copies: Always retain a copy of the completed form for your records. This can be helpful for future reference or in case of disputes.

By following these guidelines, you can navigate the leave request process more effectively. Clear communication and attention to detail are key to a successful leave application.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the DA 31 form, it’s essential to follow specific guidelines to ensure your request is processed smoothly. Here are seven things you should and shouldn’t do:

  • Do fill in your name accurately, including your last name, first name, and middle initial.
  • Don’t forget to include your DOD ID number; this is crucial for identification.
  • Do specify the type of absence you are requesting clearly, whether it is chargeable or non-chargeable leave.
  • Don’t leave any sections blank; incomplete forms can delay the approval process.
  • Do provide a valid leave address, including your phone number, so you can be reached if necessary.
  • Don’t submit the form without your supervisor’s signature, as their approval is required.
  • Do double-check the dates you are requesting to ensure they are accurate and make sense.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can help ensure your leave request is processed efficiently and without unnecessary complications.

Documents used along the form

The DA 31 form, officially known as the "Request and Authority for Leave," is an essential document for military personnel seeking to request leave. Alongside this form, several other documents are commonly utilized to ensure a smooth process for leave requests. Below are some key forms that often accompany the DA 31.

  • Leave and Earnings Statement (LES): This document provides service members with a detailed account of their pay and leave balances. It helps individuals understand how much leave they have accrued and how much is available for use, which is crucial when completing the DA 31 form.
  • Power of Attorney Form: To ensure your legal preferences are respected, consider utilizing a comprehensive Power of Attorney document template for designating decision-makers in crucial situations.
  • Unit Leave Policy: Each military unit may have its own leave policy that outlines specific guidelines and procedures for requesting leave. This document often includes information about approval processes, deadlines, and any additional requirements that service members must follow.
  • Medical Documentation: In cases where leave is requested for medical reasons, service members may need to provide supporting medical documentation. This could include a doctor's note or other relevant health records that justify the need for leave.
  • Travel Orders: If the leave involves travel, service members may need to present travel orders. These orders outline the specifics of the travel, including destinations and dates, and are essential for coordinating logistics during the leave period.

Understanding these accompanying documents can help streamline the leave request process. Proper preparation ensures that service members can take their well-deserved time off without unnecessary complications.

Things to Know About This Form

  1. What is the purpose of the DA 31 form?

    The DA 31 form, officially titled "Request and Authority for Leave," is used by military personnel to request leave from duty. It serves to document the type of leave being requested, the duration, and the approval process. The form ensures that all necessary information is collected and that the request complies with military regulations.

  2. Who is required to fill out the DA 31 form?

    All active duty military personnel, including members of the Army, are required to fill out the DA 31 form when requesting leave. This includes various types of leave such as annual leave, emergency leave, and terminal leave. Supervisors or approving authorities may also need to sign the form to indicate their approval or disapproval of the request.

  3. What types of leave can be requested using the DA 31 form?

    The DA 31 form allows for several types of leave requests, including:

    • Annual (Ordinary) Leave
    • Emergency Leave
    • Environmental Morale Leave (EML)
    • Permanent Change of Station (PCS) Leave
    • Reenlistment Leave
    • Rest and Recuperation Leave
    • Terminal Leave
    • Consecutive Overseas Tour (COT) Leave
    • Advance Leave
  4. What information is needed to complete the DA 31 form?

    To complete the DA 31 form, the requester must provide personal information such as:

    • Name (Last, First, Middle Initial)
    • DOD ID
    • Rank
    • Leave address and contact information
    • Type of absence
    • Dates of leave requested
    • Accrued leave balance
  5. How is leave approval determined?

    Leave approval is determined by the requester’s supervisor and the approving authority. They will review the request based on operational needs, the service member’s leave balance, and any other relevant factors. The supervisor can sign on behalf of the requester if they are unavailable to do so.

  6. Can leave be denied after it has been approved?

    Yes, leave can be denied or revoked after approval if circumstances change, such as operational requirements or emergencies. In such cases, the service member will be notified of the change and the reasons behind it.

  7. What should be done if changes need to be made to a submitted DA 31 form?

    If changes are necessary after submission, the requester should consult their supervisor. Depending on the nature of the change, a new DA 31 form may need to be filled out, or an amendment may be made to the existing request, subject to approval.

  8. What is the significance of the Privacy Act of 1974 in relation to the DA 31 form?

    The Privacy Act of 1974 protects the personal information collected on the DA 31 form. It ensures that the data is used solely for the purpose of processing leave requests and is safeguarded against unauthorized access. Individuals filling out the form should be aware of their rights under this act.

  9. How long in advance should the DA 31 form be submitted?

    It is generally advisable to submit the DA 31 form as early as possible, ideally at least 30 days in advance of the requested leave dates. This allows sufficient time for processing and approval. However, in cases of emergency leave, shorter notice may be acceptable.

  10. Where can I find the DA 31 form?

    The DA 31 form can typically be found on military installation websites, through personnel offices, or via the Army Publishing Directorate's online resources. It is important to use the most current version of the form, as older editions may no longer be valid.

Preview - Da 31 Form

Document Specifics

Fact Name Fact Description
Form Purpose The DA Form 31 is used to request and authorize leave for military personnel.
Governing Law This form is governed by the Army Regulation AR 600-8-10.
Privacy Act Compliance The form is subject to the Privacy Act of 1974, ensuring personal information is protected.
Requestor Information Part I collects essential details such as name, DOD ID, rank, and leave address.
Types of Absence The form allows for various types of leave, including chargeable and non-chargeable options.
Signatures Required Signatures from the requestor, supervisor, and approving authority are mandatory for processing.
Leave Dates Requestors must specify the leave dates and the total days requested on the form.
Previous Editions The current version of the DA Form 31 is dated June 2020, and previous editions are considered obsolete.

How to Fill Out Da 31

Completing the DA 31 form is an essential step for military personnel requesting leave. After filling out this form, it will be submitted for approval to the appropriate authorities. Ensure that all information is accurate and complete to avoid delays in processing your request.

  1. CONTROL NUMBER: Enter the control number, if applicable.
  2. NAME: Fill in your last name, first name, and middle initial.
  3. DOD ID: Provide your Department of Defense identification number.
  4. RANK: Indicate your rank.
  5. DATE: Enter the date in the format YYYYMMDD.
  6. LEAVE ADDRESS: Write your leave address, including street, city, state, ZIP code, and phone number.
  7. ORGANIZATION: List your organization, station, and provide a point of contact email and phone number.
  8. TYPE OF ABSENCE: Check the appropriate box for the type of leave you are requesting.
  9. FROM: Enter the start date of your leave in YYYYMMDD format.
  10. TOTAL DAYS REQUESTED: Specify the total number of days you are requesting for leave.
  11. TO: Enter the end date of your leave in YYYYMMDD format.
  12. ACCRUED LEAVE: Fill in your accrued leave balance.
  13. CHARGEABLE LEAVE REQUESTED: Indicate the amount of chargeable leave you are requesting.
  14. NON-CHARGEABLE ABSENCE REQUESTED: Provide details for any non-chargeable absence, including dates and days requested.
  15. REQUESTOR SIGNATURE: Sign and date the form. A supervisor can sign on your behalf if you are unavailable.
  16. SUPERVISOR NAME: Write the name, title, and rank/grade of your supervisor, along with their recommendation for approval or disapproval.
  17. APPROVING AUTHORITY NAME: Fill in the name, title, and rank/grade of the approving authority, along with their action of approval or disapproval.
  18. DEPARTURE AUTHORITY SIGNATURE: Provide the signature, date, time, name, and title of the departure authority.
  19. EXTENSION APPROVAL AUTHORITY SIGNATURE: If applicable, fill in the number of days, date approved, name, title, and signature of the approval authority for any extension.
  20. RETURN AUTHORITY SIGNATURE: Complete the signature, date, time, name, title, and signature of the return authority.
  21. REMARKS: Include any additional remarks as necessary.

After completing the form, review it for accuracy. Ensure that all required signatures are obtained before submitting it to the appropriate channels for processing.