Da 31 PDF Template

Instructions on Utilizing Da 31

Filling out the DA 31 form is a straightforward process that requires careful attention to detail. After completing the form, it will be submitted for approval, allowing you to proceed with your leave request. Follow these steps to ensure you fill it out correctly.

1. Locate the CONTROL NUMBER section at the top of the form and fill it in if applicable.
2. In the PART I - REQUESTOR INFORMATION section, enter your NAME (Last, First, Middle Initial).
3. Provide your DOD ID number.
4. Fill in your RANK.
5. Enter the DATE in the format YYYYMMDD.
6. Complete the LEAVE ADDRESS section with your street address, city, state, ZIP code, and phone number.
7. Provide details for your ORGANIZATION, STATION, POC EMAIL AND PHONE NUMBER.
8. Select the TYPE OF ABSENCE by checking the appropriate box. Options include:
• Annual (Ordinary) Leave
• Accession Leave
• Advance Leave
• Emergency Leave
• Environmental Morale Leave (EML)
• Permanent Change of Station (PCS) Leave
• Reenlistment Leave
• Environmental Morale Leave, Funded (FEML)
• Rest and Recuperation Leave
• Consecutive Overseas Tour (COT) Leave
• Pass Termination, Leave Charged After
• Terminal Leave
9. Fill in the FROM date and TO date for your leave request in the format YYYYMMDD.
10. Indicate the TOTAL DAYS REQUESTED.
11. Complete the sections for ACCRUED LEAVE, CHARGEABLE LEAVE REQUESTED, and NON-CHARGEABLE ABSENCE REQUESTED as applicable.
12. Sign and date the form in the REQUESTOR / SUPERVISOR / APPROVING AUTHORITY SIGNATURES section.
13. Have your supervisor fill in their NAME, TITLE, and RANK/GRADE, and indicate their recommendation by checking either APPROVAL or DISAPPROVAL.
14. Obtain the signature and date from the APPROVING AUTHORITY.
15. Complete the sections for DEPARTURE, EXTENSION, and RETURN authority signatures as needed.
16. Finally, fill in any remarks in the REMARKS section.

Filling out the DA 31 form can be a straightforward process, but several common mistakes can lead to delays or issues with leave requests. Understanding these pitfalls can help ensure that the form is completed accurately.

One frequent mistake is leaving the control number blank. This number is essential for tracking the leave request and must be filled in to avoid confusion. Without it, the request may not be processed in a timely manner.

Another common error involves providing incorrect or incomplete personal information. The name, DOD ID, and rank must be entered accurately. A simple typo can result in significant delays, as the request may need to be returned for correction.

Many individuals also overlook the leave address section. It is crucial to provide a complete address, including street, city, state, ZIP code, and phone number. Incomplete information can hinder communication during the leave period.

Choosing the wrong type of absence is another mistake that can complicate the process. The form includes several options, such as chargeable and non-chargeable leave. Selecting the incorrect type can lead to issues with leave balances and entitlements.

Additionally, people often forget to fill in the dates correctly. The FROM and TO dates must be in the correct format (YYYYMMDD). Errors in these dates can result in misunderstandings about the duration of leave.

Failing to calculate the total days requested accurately is another common issue. The TOTAL DAYS REQUESTED field should reflect the actual number of leave days being requested. Miscalculations can lead to complications in leave approval.

Another mistake is neglecting to obtain the necessary signatures. The signature of the requestor and the supervisor are required for the form to be valid. Missing signatures can delay the approval process significantly.

Some individuals may also forget to include remarks or additional information in the remarks section. This area can be used to clarify special circumstances or provide context for the leave request, which can be helpful for approving authorities.

Finally, not checking for updates or changes to the form can lead to using outdated versions. The DA 31 form is subject to revisions, and using an old version may result in processing delays or errors.

By being aware of these common mistakes, individuals can ensure that their DA 31 form is filled out correctly, leading to a smoother leave request process.

The DA 31 form, known as the Request and Authority for Leave, is a crucial document for service members seeking to take leave from their duties. Along with the DA 31, several other forms and documents may be required to process leave requests effectively. Each of these documents serves a specific purpose in ensuring that the leave process is clear and organized.

• Leave and Earnings Statement (LES): This document provides a detailed account of a service member's pay and deductions. It is essential for verifying accrued leave balances and ensuring that the leave taken does not exceed what is available.
• DA Form 4856: This is a Developmental Counseling Form used by leaders to document counseling sessions. It may be utilized to discuss leave policies or any issues related to a service member’s leave request.
• DA Form 3349: Known as the Medical Profile, this form is used to document any medical conditions that may affect a service member's ability to perform their duties. If a leave request is related to medical issues, this form may be necessary.
• DA Form 600-9: This is the Body Fat Content Worksheet. While not directly related to leave, it may be required if a service member's leave is connected to fitness or medical evaluations.
• DA Form 1610: This form is used for Temporary Duty (TDY) travel requests. If a service member is taking leave in conjunction with TDY orders, this form may be needed to clarify the nature of the absence.
• DD Form 214: This is the Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty. While it is primarily used at the end of service, it can be relevant for leave requests related to transition periods.
• Travel Voucher (DD Form 1351-2): This form is used to claim reimbursement for travel expenses incurred during leave. If a service member is traveling, this document will be necessary for financial purposes.
• Power of Attorney (POA): A POA allows a designated person to act on behalf of the service member. This document may be relevant if the service member cannot manage their leave request personally.
• Emergency Leave Request Form: This form is specifically for requesting leave due to emergencies. It may require additional documentation to substantiate the need for immediate leave.

In summary, the DA 31 form is often accompanied by various other documents that help facilitate the leave process for service members. Each of these forms plays a role in ensuring that requests are handled appropriately and that all necessary information is available for decision-makers.

• DD Form 214 - This document serves as a Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty. Like the DA 31, it captures essential information about a service member's time away from duty, including the reason for separation and the type of leave taken.
• DA Form 4836 - This form is used for the Reenlistment Document. Similar to the DA 31, it requires the service member's personal information and details regarding their service time, including any leave taken during their previous term.
• DA Form 3508 - The Leave and Earnings Statement (LES) outlines a service member's pay and leave balances. It is similar to the DA 31 in that both documents track leave status, whether it is chargeable or non-chargeable.
• DA Form 31-1 - This form is specifically for requesting leave for temporary duty (TDY) assignments. It mirrors the DA 31 in structure and purpose, as both are used to formally request time away from duty.
• SF 71 - The Application for Leave form is utilized by federal employees. Like the DA 31, it captures the employee's details and the type of leave being requested, ensuring proper documentation and approval processes are followed.

When filling out the DA 31 form, attention to detail is crucial. Here are five important dos and don'ts to keep in mind:

• Do provide accurate personal information, including your full name and DOD ID.
• Don't leave any sections blank; incomplete forms may delay the approval process.
• Do clearly indicate the type of leave you are requesting by checking the appropriate box.
• Don't forget to sign the form; your signature is essential for processing your request.
• Do double-check the dates you enter to ensure they align with your leave request.

Following these guidelines will help streamline the leave request process and minimize potential issues. Make sure to review your form thoroughly before submission.

Understanding the DA 31 form can be challenging. Here are nine common misconceptions about this important document:

• The DA 31 is only for military personnel. This form is primarily used by military members, but it can also apply to certain civilian employees in the Department of Defense.
• All leave types require a DA 31. While most leave requests do require this form, some short absences may not need it. Always check your specific situation.
• Submitting a DA 31 guarantees leave approval. Approval depends on several factors, including unit policies and operational requirements. The form is just a request.
• You can fill out the DA 31 without guidance. It is advisable to consult with your supervisor or refer to the instructions provided to ensure accuracy.
• Leave types on the DA 31 are interchangeable. Each leave type has specific rules and eligibility criteria. Be sure to select the correct type for your situation.
• Once submitted, the DA 31 cannot be changed. If you need to modify your request, you can do so by submitting a new form or discussing it with your supervisor.
• The DA 31 is only for planned leave. It can also be used for emergency leave or unexpected absences, depending on the circumstances.
• Leave accrual is the same for all service members. Leave accrual varies based on rank, time in service, and other factors. Check your specific entitlements.
• You can submit a DA 31 at any time. There may be deadlines for submitting leave requests, especially for certain types of leave. It’s important to be aware of these timelines.

By understanding these misconceptions, you can navigate the leave request process more effectively.

The DA 31 form is an important document for military personnel requesting leave. Understanding how to fill it out correctly can streamline the process and ensure that all necessary information is provided. Here are some key takeaways regarding the DA 31 form:

• Privacy Act Compliance: The form is subject to the Privacy Act of 1974, meaning personal information must be handled with care.
• Control Number: Each DA 31 form has a control number that helps track the request throughout the approval process.
• Requestor Information: Fill in your name, DOD ID, rank, and date accurately in the requestor information section.
• Leave Address: Provide a complete leave address, including street, city, state, ZIP code, and phone number.
• Type of Absence: Clearly indicate whether the leave is chargeable, non-chargeable, or a combination of both.
• Leave Dates: Specify the dates for the leave request, including the total number of days requested.
• Signatures Required: Ensure that the requestor's signature, as well as the supervisor's and approving authority's signatures, are obtained.
• Approval Process: The supervisor can sign on behalf of the requestor if they are unavailable, which can expedite the approval process.
• Extensions and Returns: If an extension is needed, additional signatures and dates must be provided to authorize the change.
• Remarks Section: Use the remarks section to add any additional information or clarifications related to the leave request.

By following these key points, military personnel can effectively navigate the process of requesting leave using the DA 31 form.