Completing the DA Form 31, also known as the Request and Authority for Leave form, is a crucial process for active-duty soldiers in the US Army. This form is used to request leave, and it's essential to fill it out correctly to avoid any delays or issues with your leave approval. Here, we'll outline five ways to complete the DA Form 31 correctly.
Understanding the Purpose of the DA Form 31
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of completing the DA Form 31, it's essential to understand its purpose. The DA Form 31 is used to request leave, which can be for various reasons such as vacation, medical appointments, family emergencies, or other personal reasons. The form is used to document the leave request, and it requires the signature of the soldier's supervisor or commander.
Why is it Important to Complete the DA Form 31 Correctly?
Completing the DA Form 31 correctly is crucial because it affects the processing and approval of your leave request. If the form is filled out incorrectly, it may lead to delays or even rejection of your leave request. Additionally, incorrect completion of the form can result in administrative errors, which can impact your military records and benefits.
5 Ways to Complete the DA Form 31 Correctly
1. Fill Out the Form Completely and Accurately
Make sure to fill out all the required fields on the DA Form 31, including your name, rank, social security number, unit, and leave dates. Ensure that all information is accurate and up-to-date. Double-check your entries to avoid any errors.
2. Choose the Correct Type of Leave
The DA Form 31 allows you to request different types of leave, including:
- Annual leave
- Sick leave
- Family leave
- Emergency leave
- Convalescent leave
- Other ( specify reason)
Choose the correct type of leave that applies to your situation.
3. Specify the Leave Dates
Clearly specify the start and end dates of your leave, including the number of days you're requesting. Make sure to check the Army's leave policies and regulations to ensure you're requesting leave within the allowed timeframe.
4. Get the Required Signatures
The DA Form 31 requires the signature of your supervisor or commander. Ensure that you obtain the required signatures before submitting the form. If you're requesting leave for a family emergency or medical appointment, you may need to provide additional documentation, such as a doctor's note or proof of family relationship.
5. Submit the Form on Time
Submit the completed DA Form 31 to your supervisor or commander well in advance of your leave dates. This allows enough time for processing and approval. Late submissions may result in delays or rejection of your leave request.
Additional Tips for Completing the DA Form 31
- Use black ink and print clearly
- Avoid using abbreviations or acronyms
- Use the correct military time format (HHMM)
- Keep a copy of the completed form for your records
- Follow up with your supervisor or commander to ensure the form is processed correctly
By following these five ways to complete the DA Form 31 correctly, you'll ensure a smooth and efficient leave request process. Remember to double-check your entries, choose the correct type of leave, specify the leave dates, get the required signatures, and submit the form on time.
What Happens After Submitting the DA Form 31?
After submitting the completed DA Form 31, your supervisor or commander will review and approve or disapprove your leave request. If approved, you'll receive a copy of the approved form, which you should keep for your records. If disapproved, you'll be notified of the reasons for disapproval and may need to resubmit the form with corrections or additional information.
Conclusion
Completing the DA Form 31 correctly is essential for a smooth and efficient leave request process. By following the five ways outlined above, you'll ensure that your leave request is processed correctly and without delays. Remember to stay organized, double-check your entries, and follow up with your supervisor or commander to ensure a successful leave request.
We hope this article has been informative and helpful. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them below.
What is the DA Form 31 used for?
+The DA Form 31 is used to request leave, which can be for various reasons such as vacation, medical appointments, family emergencies, or other personal reasons.
What happens if I fill out the DA Form 31 incorrectly?
+If you fill out the DA Form 31 incorrectly, it may lead to delays or even rejection of your leave request. Additionally, incorrect completion of the form can result in administrative errors, which can impact your military records and benefits.
How long does it take to process the DA Form 31?
+The processing time for the DA Form 31 varies depending on the unit and the type of leave requested. It's recommended to submit the form well in advance of your leave dates to ensure timely processing.