Da Form 31: Understanding The Army Leave Request Process

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The Army leave request process can be a daunting task for many soldiers. With the various types of leave, procedures, and paperwork involved, it's essential to understand the ins and outs of the process to ensure a smooth and successful leave request. In this article, we'll delve into the world of Army leave requests, focusing on DA Form 31, the Leave Request Form, and provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to navigate the process.

Why is DA Form 31 Important?

DA Form 31, also known as the Leave Request Form, is a crucial document in the Army leave request process. It's used to request leave, pass, or permissive temporary duty (PTDY) for various reasons, including vacation, sick leave, family emergencies, or special occasions. The form requires soldiers to provide detailed information about their leave request, including the type of leave, dates, and destination. Understanding DA Form 31 is essential for soldiers to ensure they're providing accurate and complete information, which will help expedite the leave request process.

Types of Leave in the Army

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of DA Form 31, it's essential to understand the different types of leave available to Army soldiers. The most common types of leave include:

• Annual Leave: Also known as vacation leave, this type of leave is accrued by soldiers and can be taken for recreational purposes.
• Sick Leave: Soldiers can take sick leave for medical reasons, including illness, injury, or doctor's appointments.
• Family Leave: This type of leave is available for family emergencies, such as the birth or adoption of a child, or the serious illness of a family member.
• Emergency Leave: Soldiers can take emergency leave for unexpected events, such as the death of a family member or a family emergency.
• Convalescent Leave: This type of leave is available for soldiers who need time to recover from an illness or injury.

How to Fill Out DA Form 31

Filling out DA Form 31 can seem daunting, but it's a straightforward process. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you complete the form:

1. Block 1: Enter your name, rank, and Social Security number.
2. Block 2: Specify the type of leave you're requesting (annual, sick, family, emergency, or convalescent).
3. Block 3: Enter the dates of your leave, including the start and end dates.
4. Block 4: Provide your destination address, including the city, state, and ZIP code.
5. Block 5: Specify the number of days you're requesting for leave.
6. Block 6: Provide a detailed explanation for your leave request.
7. Block 7: Sign and date the form.

Submitting DA Form 31

Once you've completed DA Form 31, you'll need to submit it to your unit's leave approver. The approver will review your request and either approve or deny it. If approved, you'll receive a copy of the approved form, which you should keep for your records.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When filling out DA Form 31, it's essential to avoid common mistakes that can delay or even deny your leave request. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Inaccurate or incomplete information: Double-check your form for errors or omissions.
• Insufficient leave balance: Ensure you have enough leave balance to cover your request.
• Late submission: Submit your form well in advance of your leave dates.

Conclusion

Understanding DA Form 31 is crucial for Army soldiers to ensure a smooth and successful leave request process. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you'll be well on your way to filling out the form accurately and efficiently. Remember to avoid common mistakes, submit your form on time, and keep a copy of your approved form for your records.

We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you navigate the Army leave request process. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to your unit's leave approver or HR representative.