Traveling for military personnel can be a complex process, especially when it comes to submitting travel vouchers. The DD Form 1351, also known as the Travel Voucher, is a crucial document that helps service members and their families receive reimbursement for official travel expenses. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide to help military personnel navigate the process of completing and submitting the DD Form 1351.
Understanding the DD Form 1351
The DD Form 1351 is a standardized form used by the Department of Defense (DoD) to process travel vouchers for military personnel. The form is designed to collect information about the traveler's expenses, including transportation, lodging, and meals. The form is typically used for official travel, such as temporary duty assignments, permanent change of station moves, and other authorized trips.
Who is Eligible to Use the DD Form 1351?
The DD Form 1351 is available to all military personnel, including active-duty members, reservists, and National Guard members. Dependents and civilian employees of the DoD may also be eligible to use the form, depending on the specific circumstances of their travel.
How to Complete the DD Form 1351
Completing the DD Form 1351 requires careful attention to detail and accuracy. Here are the steps to follow:
- Download the form: The DD Form 1351 is available on the DoD's website or through your unit's administrative office.
- Fill out the form: Complete the form electronically or manually, making sure to include all required information, such as:
- Traveler's name and rank
- Social Security number
- Travel dates and destinations
- Mode of transportation
- Expenses incurred (transportation, lodging, meals, etc.)
- Gather supporting documents: Collect receipts, invoices, and other supporting documents to validate your expenses.
- Get approval: Have your supervisor or unit commander review and approve your travel voucher.
Tips for Completing the DD Form 1351
- Use the correct form version: Make sure you are using the most recent version of the DD Form 1351.
- Be accurate and complete: Double-check your information and ensure that you have included all required supporting documents.
- Use a calculator: Calculate your expenses carefully to avoid errors.
Submitting the DD Form 1351
Once you have completed the DD Form 1351, you will need to submit it to your unit's administrative office or the Defense Travel System (DTS). Here are the steps to follow:
- Submit the form: Submit the completed form and supporting documents to your unit's administrative office or DTS.
- Track your submission: Keep a record of your submission, including the date and time you submitted the form.
What to Expect After Submitting the DD Form 1351
- Processing time: The processing time for travel vouchers can vary, but most are processed within 7-10 business days.
- Reimbursement: Once your travel voucher is approved, you will receive reimbursement for your expenses.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with the DD Form 1351
If you encounter issues with your travel voucher, here are some common problems and solutions:
- Incomplete or inaccurate information: Double-check your form for errors and resubmit it with the correct information.
- Missing supporting documents: Gather the required supporting documents and resubmit your travel voucher.
- Delayed processing: Contact your unit's administrative office or DTS to inquire about the status of your travel voucher.
Conclusion
Completing and submitting the DD Form 1351 can seem daunting, but with the right guidance, military personnel can navigate the process with ease. Remember to be accurate and complete, gather supporting documents, and submit your form on time. By following these steps, you can ensure that you receive reimbursement for your official travel expenses.
We hope this guide has been helpful in assisting you with the DD Form 1351. If you have any further questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out.
What is the DD Form 1351?
+The DD Form 1351 is a standardized form used by the Department of Defense (DoD) to process travel vouchers for military personnel.
Who is eligible to use the DD Form 1351?
+The DD Form 1351 is available to all military personnel, including active-duty members, reservists, and National Guard members.
How long does it take to process a travel voucher?
+The processing time for travel vouchers can vary, but most are processed within 7-10 business days.