The DD Form 137-7, also known as the Dependency Statement, is a crucial document used by the United States military to determine the dependency status of its personnel. This form is essential for military members who wish to claim their dependents for various benefits, including Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH), Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS), and medical coverage.
Understanding the Purpose of the DD Form 137-7
The primary purpose of the DD Form 137-7 is to verify the dependency status of an individual's family members. This information is used to determine the member's entitlement to various benefits and allowances. The form requires the member to provide detailed information about their dependents, including their relationship, income, and expenses.
Benefits of Filing the DD Form 137-7
Filing the DD Form 137-7 can provide numerous benefits to military personnel, including:
- Increased Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) and Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS)
- Medical coverage for dependents
- Access to on-base facilities, such as commissaries and exchanges
- Eligibility for dependent education assistance programs
- Increased leave and vacation time
Who Needs to File the DD Form 137-7?
The following individuals are required to file the DD Form 137-7:
- Military personnel with dependents, including spouses, children, and parents
- Members who have recently married or had a child
- Members who have experienced a change in dependency status, such as a divorce or the death of a dependent
How to File the DD Form 137-7
Filing the DD Form 137-7 involves the following steps:
- Obtain the form: The DD Form 137-7 can be obtained from the member's unit administration office or downloaded from the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) website.
- Gather required documents: Members will need to provide documentation to support their dependency claims, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and tax returns.
- Complete the form: Members should carefully complete the form, ensuring that all required information is provided.
- Submit the form: The completed form should be submitted to the member's unit administration office for processing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filing the DD Form 137-7
When filing the DD Form 137-7, members should avoid the following common mistakes:
- Failing to provide required documentation
- Incomplete or inaccurate information
- Failure to report changes in dependency status
- Submitting the form late or after the deadline
Consequences of Not Filing the DD Form 137-7
Failure to file the DD Form 137-7 can result in the following consequences:
- Loss of benefits and allowances
- Reduction in Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) and Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS)
- Ineligibility for dependent education assistance programs
- Reduced leave and vacation time
Conclusion
The DD Form 137-7 is a critical document for military personnel who wish to claim their dependents for various benefits. By understanding the purpose and benefits of filing the form, members can ensure that they receive the entitlements they deserve. It is essential to avoid common mistakes and submit the form accurately and on time to avoid any consequences.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive understanding of the DD Form 137-7 and its importance for military personnel. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to ask in the comments section below.
What is the purpose of the DD Form 137-7?
+The purpose of the DD Form 137-7 is to verify the dependency status of an individual's family members and determine their entitlement to various benefits and allowances.
Who needs to file the DD Form 137-7?
+Military personnel with dependents, including spouses, children, and parents, are required to file the DD Form 137-7.
What are the consequences of not filing the DD Form 137-7?
+Failure to file the DD Form 137-7 can result in the loss of benefits and allowances, reduction in Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) and Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS), and ineligibility for dependent education assistance programs.