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What is the purpose of the DA 31 form?

The DA 31 form is used by military personnel to request and authorize leave. It helps document the type of leave being requested, the duration, and the necessary approvals. This form ensures that all requests are processed in accordance with military regulations and helps maintain accurate records of leave taken by service members.

What information do I need to provide on the DA 31 form?

When filling out the DA 31 form, you will need to provide the following information:

• Your name (last, first, middle initial)
• Your DOD ID number
• Your rank
• The date of the request
• Your leave address, including street, city, state, ZIP code, and phone number
• Your organization and station, along with a point of contact email and phone number
• The type of absence (chargeable or non-chargeable leave)
• The dates for the leave period and the total days requested

What types of leave can I request using the DA 31 form?

The DA 31 form allows you to request various types of leave, including:

• Annual (Ordinary) Leave
• Emergency Leave
• Environmental Morale Leave (EML)
• Permanent Change of Station (PCS) Leave
• Reenlistment Leave
• Rest and Recuperation Leave
• Consecutive Overseas Tour (COT) Leave
• Terminal Leave

Who needs to sign the DA 31 form?

The DA 31 form requires several signatures for approval:

1. The requestor's signature, which can be signed by a supervisor if the requestor is unavailable.
2. The supervisor's signature, indicating their recommendation for approval or disapproval.
3. The approving authority's signature, which finalizes the action as approved or disapproved.
4. Additional signatures may be required for departure, extension, or return authority.

What happens if my leave request is disapproved?

If your leave request is disapproved, you will typically receive a notification explaining the reasons for the disapproval. You may have the option to revise your request or appeal the decision, depending on the specific circumstances and the policies of your command. It is advisable to discuss the situation with your supervisor for guidance on next steps.

Filling out the DA 31 form can seem straightforward, but many people make common mistakes that can lead to delays or complications in their leave requests. Understanding these pitfalls is crucial for ensuring a smooth process. Here are eight frequent errors to avoid.

One of the most significant mistakes is leaving the control number section blank. This number is essential for tracking the request and ensuring it is processed correctly. Without it, your application may be lost or delayed, so always make sure to fill this out accurately.

Another common error is not providing complete information in the requestor information section. Fields such as your name, DOD ID, and rank must be filled out completely. Omitting even a single detail can lead to confusion and may result in your request being returned for correction.

Incorrectly identifying the type of absence is also a frequent issue. The form includes various options, such as chargeable and non-chargeable leave. Selecting the wrong type can have serious implications for your leave balance and pay, so double-check your choice before submitting.

Many individuals fail to specify the dates correctly in the "From" and "To" sections. Ensure that the dates are in the proper format (YYYYMMDD) and that they accurately reflect your intended leave period. An error here can lead to misunderstandings about your availability.

Another mistake involves the signature section. Some people forget to sign the form or neglect to get the necessary approvals. This can halt the processing of your leave request. Always ensure that your signature is present and that you have obtained the required approvals from your supervisor and the approving authority.

In the remarks section, individuals often overlook adding important notes that could clarify their situation. If there are special circumstances regarding your leave, detailing them can help the approving authority understand your request better.

Lastly, failing to keep a copy of the submitted DA 31 form is a common oversight. Retaining a copy ensures you have a record of your request and can follow up if needed. This simple step can save you from potential headaches down the line.

Being aware of these mistakes and taking the time to double-check your form can significantly improve the chances of your leave request being approved without any issues. Don’t let a simple error stand in the way of your well-deserved time off.

The DA 31 form, known as the Request and Authority for Leave, is a crucial document for military personnel seeking leave. It serves to formally request time away from duty and outlines the type of leave being requested. Alongside the DA 31, several other forms and documents may be required or helpful in the leave process. Below is a list of these documents, each with a brief description.

• Leave and Earnings Statement (LES): This document provides details about a service member's pay and leave balances. It is essential for verifying available leave days when completing the DA 31 form.
• DA Form 4856: This form is used for counseling purposes. It may be necessary for documenting any discussions regarding leave and performance or conduct issues that could affect leave approval.
• DA Form 2-1: The Personnel Qualification Record, or DA Form 2-1, contains a service member's qualifications and assignments. It may be referenced to confirm eligibility for certain types of leave.
• DA Form 4187: This is a Personnel Action form used to request changes in duty status, including leave. It can serve as a supplementary request for leave when specific circumstances arise.
• Travel Orders: If the leave involves travel, official travel orders may be necessary. These orders outline the details of the trip and ensure that the leave is properly documented and authorized.
• Medical Documentation: In cases of medical leave, documentation from a healthcare provider may be required. This supports the leave request and provides justification for absence.
• Emergency Leave Request: This is a specific request form used in cases of urgent family matters. It may be submitted alongside the DA 31 for expedited processing of leave.
• Commander's Approval Memorandum: This memorandum serves as a formal approval from a commanding officer for the leave request. It is often required for certain types of leave or special circumstances.

Understanding these associated forms and documents can streamline the leave process for military personnel. Proper documentation ensures that requests are processed efficiently and that service members receive the leave they need in a timely manner.

The DA Form 2-1, also known as the Personnel Qualification Record, is similar to the DA 31 form in that it serves as an official record for military personnel. It contains vital information about a service member's qualifications, assignments, and training history. Both forms require detailed personal information and are used for administrative purposes within the military. The DA 2-1 helps in tracking a soldier's career progression, while the DA 31 focuses specifically on leave requests and approvals.

The DD Form 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, shares similarities with the DA 31 in that both documents are critical for service members transitioning out of active duty. The DD 214 provides a comprehensive summary of a service member's military service, including dates of service and discharge status. While the DA 31 is used during active duty to request leave, the DD 214 serves as a record of the entire military experience, which may influence future employment or benefits.

The SF 50, Notification of Personnel Action, is another document comparable to the DA 31. It is used in federal employment to document personnel actions such as appointments, promotions, and separations. Similar to the DA 31, the SF 50 requires personal information and is used for official record-keeping. Both documents play a role in managing personnel records and ensuring that proper procedures are followed within their respective organizations.

The DA Form 1059, Service School Academic Evaluation Report, is related to the DA 31 in that it evaluates a service member's performance during training. While the DA 31 is focused on leave requests, the DA 1059 provides insights into a soldier's educational achievements and skills. Both forms contribute to a soldier's overall record and can affect future opportunities within the military.

The DA Form 4824, Application for Leave of Absence, is similar to the DA 31 as it is another type of leave request form. This form is often used for different types of leave, including personal leave and sick leave. Like the DA 31, it requires specific information about the requester and the duration of the leave. Both forms ensure that leave is properly documented and approved by the appropriate authorities.

The AF Form 988, Leave Request/Authorization, is a comparable document used in the Air Force. It serves a similar purpose as the DA 31 by allowing service members to request leave. The AF Form 988 collects information about the type of leave, dates requested, and approvals. Both forms are essential for maintaining accurate leave records and ensuring that service members receive the time off they need.

The VA Form 21-526EZ, Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits, is somewhat related to the DA 31 in that both involve official requests. While the VA form is focused on disability claims, it also requires personal information and is part of the broader administrative processes that service members navigate. Both forms are crucial for managing benefits and ensuring that service members receive the support they need.

The OPM Form 71, Request for Leave or Approved Absence, is similar to the DA 31 as it is used by federal employees to request leave. This form outlines the type of leave being requested and the dates. Both the OPM Form 71 and the DA 31 require approval from a supervisor, ensuring that leave is properly managed within the organization.

The DA Form 4856, Developmental Counseling Form, can also be compared to the DA 31 in terms of its administrative function. While the DA 31 is focused on leave requests, the DA 4856 is used for documenting counseling sessions and performance evaluations. Both forms are important for maintaining records and facilitating communication between service members and their supervisors.

Finally, the DA Form 600-9, Body Fat Content Worksheet, shares a similar administrative purpose with the DA 31. While the focus of the DA 600-9 is on health and fitness, both forms require the collection of personal information and are used to track compliance with military standards. Each form plays a role in the overall management of personnel within the military structure.

When filling out the DA 31 form, it’s important to be thorough and accurate. Here’s a list of things you should and shouldn’t do:

• Do double-check all personal information for accuracy.
• Do specify the type of absence clearly to avoid confusion.
• Do ensure signatures are obtained from all necessary authorities.
• Do keep a copy of the completed form for your records.

• Don't leave any required fields blank; this can delay processing.
• Don't use abbreviations or unclear language in the remarks section.
• Don't submit the form without confirming the dates of leave.
• Don't forget to follow up on the approval status after submission.

Understanding the DA 31 form is crucial for service members requesting leave. However, several misconceptions can lead to confusion. Here are four common misunderstandings about this important document:

• Misconception 1: The DA 31 form is only for military personnel on active duty.

While primarily used by active-duty members, the DA 31 form is also applicable to reservists and National Guard members when they are on active duty orders. Anyone under military jurisdiction can utilize this form for leave requests.

• Misconception 2: Submitting the DA 31 guarantees leave approval.

Submitting a DA 31 form does not automatically mean your leave will be approved. Approval is contingent on several factors, including the needs of the unit and the discretion of the approving authority. Always check with your supervisor for guidance.

• Misconception 3: The DA 31 form can be submitted without a specific leave address.

Providing a leave address is essential when filling out the DA 31. This information ensures that the military can contact you during your absence. Leaving this section blank may delay the approval process.

• Misconception 4: All types of leave require the same amount of notice.

Different types of leave have varying notice requirements. For example, emergency leave may require less notice than annual leave. It is important to familiarize yourself with these requirements to ensure compliance and avoid complications.

Filling out the DA 31 form requires attention to detail and understanding of its components. Here are some key takeaways to consider:

• Complete Personal Information: Ensure that all fields in Part I, including name, DOD ID, and rank, are filled out accurately to avoid processing delays.
• Specify Type of Absence: Clearly indicate whether the leave is chargeable, non-chargeable, or a combination. This affects how the leave is accounted for.
• Obtain Necessary Signatures: The form must be signed by the requestor, supervisor, and approving authority. Each signature confirms approval at different levels.
• Understand Privacy Considerations: The form is subject to the Privacy Act of 1974, which means personal information must be handled with care and confidentiality.