The DA Form 5960, also known as the "Authorization for Leave" form, is a crucial document for military personnel to request and track their leave. Filling out this form accurately is essential to ensure a smooth and hassle-free leave process. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to fill out the DA Form 5960 correctly, highlighting common mistakes to avoid and providing valuable tips to make the process easier.
Understanding the DA Form 5960
Before we dive into the steps to fill out the form, it's essential to understand the purpose and content of the DA Form 5960. This form is used to request and authorize leave for military personnel, including vacation, sick leave, and other types of absences. The form requires detailed information about the leave, including the dates, type of leave, and the soldier's personal and contact information.
Step 1: Gather Required Information
To fill out the DA Form 5960 accurately, you'll need to gather the required information beforehand. This includes:
- Your personal and contact information, including your name, rank, and unit
- The type of leave you're requesting (e.g., vacation, sick leave, etc.)
- The dates of your leave, including the start and end dates
- The number of days you're requesting off
- Your supervisor's name and signature
Section I: Soldier's Information
In this section, you'll need to provide your personal and contact information. Make sure to fill out the following fields accurately:
- Name
- Rank
- Unit
- Social Security number
- Date of birth
- Home address
- Phone number
Step 2: Specify Leave Details
In this section, you'll need to provide details about the leave you're requesting. Make sure to fill out the following fields accurately:
- Type of leave (e.g., vacation, sick leave, etc.)
- Dates of leave (start and end dates)
- Number of days requested off
Leave Types and Codes
Familiarize yourself with the different leave types and codes to ensure you're requesting the correct type of leave. Some common leave types and codes include:
- Vacation leave (code: 1)
- Sick leave (code: 2)
- Family emergency leave (code: 3)
- Bereavement leave (code: 4)
Step 3: Obtain Supervisor's Signature
Once you've filled out the form, you'll need to obtain your supervisor's signature. Make sure to provide your supervisor with all the necessary information and ensure they understand the leave request.
Step 4: Review and Submit the Form
Before submitting the form, review it carefully to ensure all information is accurate and complete. Make sure to sign and date the form, and obtain your supervisor's signature.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To avoid delays or rejections, make sure to avoid the following common mistakes:
- Incomplete or inaccurate information
- Missing supervisor's signature
- Incorrect leave type or code
- Insufficient notice
Conclusion
Filling out the DA Form 5960 requires attention to detail and accuracy. By following these steps and tips, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free leave process. Remember to review the form carefully, obtain your supervisor's signature, and avoid common mistakes. If you're unsure about any part of the process, don't hesitate to reach out to your HR representative or supervisor for guidance.
What is the purpose of the DA Form 5960?
+The DA Form 5960 is used to request and authorize leave for military personnel.
What information is required to fill out the DA Form 5960?
+To fill out the DA Form 5960, you'll need to provide your personal and contact information, leave details, and obtain your supervisor's signature.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when filling out the DA Form 5960?
+Common mistakes to avoid include incomplete or inaccurate information, missing supervisor's signature, incorrect leave type or code, and insufficient notice.