The AF Form 847, also known as the "Rebuttal or Amendment to Findings and Recommendations of the Physical Evaluation Board", is a critical document for military personnel who have been medically discharged or retired. Completing this form accurately and thoroughly is crucial to ensure that your case is properly presented and considered by the Physical Evaluation Board (PEB). In this article, we will provide you with 7 essential tips to help you complete the AF Form 847 effectively.
Tip 1: Understand the Purpose of the AF Form 847
Before you start filling out the AF Form 847, it is essential to understand its purpose. The form is used to rebut or amend the findings and recommendations of the PEB. This means that you need to clearly articulate your disagreement with the PEB's decision and provide evidence to support your claims.
What to Include
When completing the AF Form 847, make sure to include the following:
- A clear statement of your disagreement with the PEB's findings and recommendations
- Specific reasons for your disagreement
- Supporting evidence, such as medical records, witness statements, or other relevant documents
Tip 2: Gather Supporting Evidence
To strengthen your case, it is crucial to gather supporting evidence. This can include:
- Medical records that contradict the PEB's findings
- Witness statements from medical professionals or other individuals who can attest to your condition
- Relevant documents, such as laboratory test results or imaging studies
Organizing Your Evidence
When gathering evidence, make sure to organize it in a clear and concise manner. This will help you to easily reference the evidence when completing the AF Form 847.
- Use a binder or folder to keep your evidence organized
- Label each piece of evidence with a clear description of what it is and how it supports your case
- Make sure to include a table of contents or index to help you quickly find specific pieces of evidence
Tip 3: Use Clear and Concise Language
When completing the AF Form 847, it is essential to use clear and concise language. Avoid using technical jargon or complex medical terminology that may be difficult for non-medical personnel to understand.
Using Simple Language
- Use simple and straightforward language to explain your disagreement with the PEB's findings and recommendations
- Avoid using abbreviations or acronyms that may be unfamiliar to non-medical personnel
- Use clear and concise headings and subheadings to organize your statement
Tip 4: Address Each Finding and Recommendation
When completing the AF Form 847, make sure to address each finding and recommendation made by the PEB. This will help to ensure that your case is thoroughly presented and considered.
Addressing Each Finding and Recommendation
- Use a separate paragraph or section to address each finding and recommendation
- Clearly state your disagreement with each finding and recommendation
- Provide supporting evidence to support your disagreement
Tip 5: Use Bullet Points and Numbered Lists
Using bullet points and numbered lists can help to make your statement more readable and easier to understand.
Using Bullet Points and Numbered Lists
- Use bullet points to list specific reasons for your disagreement with the PEB's findings and recommendations
- Use numbered lists to outline the steps you have taken to address your medical condition
- Use clear and concise headings and subheadings to organize your statement
Tip 6: Proofread and Edit Your Statement
Before submitting your AF Form 847, make sure to proofread and edit your statement carefully. This will help to ensure that your statement is free of errors and easy to understand.
Proofreading and Editing
- Use a spell checker to catch spelling errors
- Use a grammar checker to catch grammatical errors
- Have a friend or family member review your statement for clarity and understanding
Tip 7: Seek Professional Help
If you are unsure about how to complete the AF Form 847 or need help gathering evidence, consider seeking professional help.
Seeking Professional Help
- Consult with a veterans' service organization or a medical professional for guidance and support
- Consider hiring a lawyer or advocate to help you complete the AF Form 847 and present your case
By following these 7 essential tips, you can ensure that your AF Form 847 is completed accurately and thoroughly, and that your case is properly presented and considered by the Physical Evaluation Board.
We hope this article has been helpful in providing you with the information and guidance you need to complete the AF Form 847 effectively. If you have any further questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to comment below.
What is the purpose of the AF Form 847?
+The AF Form 847 is used to rebut or amend the findings and recommendations of the Physical Evaluation Board (PEB).
What evidence should I include with my AF Form 847?
+You should include any relevant evidence that supports your disagreement with the PEB's findings and recommendations, such as medical records, witness statements, or other relevant documents.
How long does it take to complete the AF Form 847?
+The time it takes to complete the AF Form 847 will vary depending on the complexity of your case and the amount of evidence you need to gather. It's recommended that you allow at least several weeks to complete the form and gather evidence.