Mastering the art of filling out a DHA Form 116 can be a daunting task, especially for those who are new to the process. The DHA Form 116, also known as the "Request for a Certificate of Non-Availability of Housing" form, is a crucial document for military personnel and their families who are seeking to rent or purchase a home in the private market. In this article, we will break down the top 5 things you need to know to master the DHA Form 116.
Understanding the Purpose of DHA Form 116
The DHA Form 116 is a critical document that helps military personnel and their families obtain certification for non-availability of housing. This certification is necessary to rent or purchase a home in the private market, as it confirms that the military member or their family is not eligible for on-base housing. The form is used to document the unavailability of housing and to establish the military member's eligibility for off-base housing allowances.
Who Needs to Fill Out DHA Form 116?
The DHA Form 116 is typically required for military personnel and their families who are:
- Renting or purchasing a home in the private market
- Seeking to establish eligibility for off-base housing allowances
- Required to document the unavailability of on-base housing
Top 5 Things You Need to Know About DHA Form 116
Here are the top 5 things you need to know about DHA Form 116:
1. Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible to fill out DHA Form 116, military personnel and their families must meet certain requirements. These requirements include:
- Being a member of the military or a military family member
- Being assigned to a duty station where on-base housing is not available
- Meeting the income and eligibility requirements for off-base housing allowances
Understanding the Eligibility Requirements
It's essential to understand the eligibility requirements for DHA Form 116 to ensure that you qualify for off-base housing allowances. If you're unsure about your eligibility, consult with your military housing office or a housing counselor.
2. Gathering Required Documents
To fill out DHA Form 116, you'll need to gather several documents, including:
- Your military orders
- Your leave and earnings statement (LES)
- Your dependent documentation (if applicable)
- Your housing application (if applicable)
Tips for Gathering Required Documents
Make sure to gather all required documents before starting the application process. This will help ensure that your application is complete and processed quickly.
3. Completing the Form
Once you have all the required documents, you can start filling out DHA Form 116. The form will ask for information about your:
- Military assignment and duty station
- Housing needs and preferences
- Income and eligibility for off-base housing allowances
Tips for Completing the Form
Take your time when filling out the form, and make sure to answer all questions accurately. If you're unsure about any section of the form, consult with your military housing office or a housing counselor.
4. Submitting the Form
Once you've completed DHA Form 116, you'll need to submit it to your military housing office or a designated authority. Make sure to submit the form well in advance of your housing needs, as the processing time can take several weeks.
Tips for Submitting the Form
Submit the form via certified mail or in person to ensure that it's received and processed promptly.
5. Following Up
After submitting DHA Form 116, follow up with your military housing office or a designated authority to ensure that your application is being processed. You can also check the status of your application online or by phone.
Tips for Following Up
Follow up regularly to ensure that your application is being processed promptly. If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to your military housing office or a housing counselor.
Additional Tips and Resources
Here are some additional tips and resources to help you master DHA Form 116:
- Consult with your military housing office or a housing counselor if you have any questions or concerns about the application process.
- Review the DHA Form 116 instructions carefully before starting the application process.
- Make sure to keep a copy of your application and supporting documents for your records.
Conclusion
Mastering DHA Form 116 requires patience, attention to detail, and a thorough understanding of the application process. By following the top 5 things you need to know about DHA Form 116, you can ensure that your application is complete, accurate, and processed promptly. Remember to consult with your military housing office or a housing counselor if you have any questions or concerns, and don't hesitate to reach out for additional support.
Call to Action
If you're a military personnel or family member who needs help with DHA Form 116, don't hesitate to reach out to your military housing office or a housing counselor. They can provide you with guidance, support, and resources to help you navigate the application process. Additionally, you can share this article with your friends and colleagues who may be going through a similar experience.
FAQs
What is DHA Form 116?
+DHA Form 116 is a document that helps military personnel and their families obtain certification for non-availability of housing. This certification is necessary to rent or purchase a home in the private market.
Who needs to fill out DHA Form 116?
+Military personnel and their families who are renting or purchasing a home in the private market need to fill out DHA Form 116.
What documents do I need to gather to fill out DHA Form 116?
+You'll need to gather your military orders, leave and earnings statement (LES), dependent documentation (if applicable), and housing application (if applicable).