Understanding the New DA Form 4187: A Guide to Proper Filling
The DA Form 4187 is a crucial document used by the US Army to request and approve various personnel actions, such as changes in duty status, reassignments, and other administrative changes. The new DA Form 4187, introduced in 2020, has brought about significant changes in the format and requirements, making it essential for personnel to understand how to fill it out correctly. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to fill out the new DA Form 4187, highlighting the key changes and requirements.
Section I: Identifying the Purpose of the Request
The first section of the DA Form 4187 requires you to identify the purpose of the request. This section is crucial, as it will determine the subsequent sections that need to be completed. There are several options to choose from, including:
- Request for reassignment
- Request for change in duty status
- Request for leave
- Request for extension of duty
- Request for other personnel actions
It is essential to carefully read the instructions and choose the correct option that corresponds to your request.
Section II: Providing Personal and Administrative Information
In this section, you will need to provide your personal and administrative information, including:
- Name
- Rank
- Social Security number
- Unit and organization
- Duty status
- Current and proposed duty assignment
This section is straightforward, and you should ensure that all the information is accurate and up-to-date.
Section III: Describing the Request
In this section, you will need to provide a detailed description of your request, including:
- The reason for the request
- The desired outcome
- Any supporting documentation or evidence
This section is critical, as it will help the approving authority understand the context and justification for your request. Be sure to provide clear and concise information, and include any relevant documentation.
Section IV: Providing Additional Information (If Applicable)
This section is optional and only applies to specific types of requests, such as requests for leave or extension of duty. If applicable, you will need to provide additional information, including:
- Leave dates
- Type of leave
- Number of days requested
- Extension dates
- Reason for extension
Be sure to carefully read the instructions and only complete this section if it applies to your request.
Section V: Certifying the Request
In this section, you will need to certify that the information provided is accurate and true. This section is essential, as it serves as a declaration of the validity of the request.
By following these steps and ensuring that all sections are completed accurately, you can ensure that your DA Form 4187 is properly filled out and submitted for approval.
Top 5 Tips for Filling Out the DA Form 4187
- Read the instructions carefully: Before starting to fill out the form, read the instructions carefully to ensure that you understand the requirements and format.
- Provide accurate and up-to-date information: Ensure that all personal and administrative information is accurate and up-to-date to avoid delays or rejection of your request.
- Be clear and concise in your description: When describing your request, be clear and concise, and include any relevant documentation or evidence to support your request.
- Only complete applicable sections: Only complete sections that are applicable to your request to avoid unnecessary work and delays.
- Certify the request carefully: When certifying the request, ensure that you understand the implications and take responsibility for the accuracy and truthfulness of the information provided.
By following these tips and using the guide provided, you can ensure that your DA Form 4187 is properly filled out and submitted for approval.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filling Out the DA Form 4187
When filling out the DA Form 4187, there are several common mistakes to avoid, including:
- Incomplete or inaccurate information: Ensure that all personal and administrative information is accurate and up-to-date to avoid delays or rejection of your request.
- Insufficient documentation: Ensure that all relevant documentation or evidence is included to support your request.
- Failure to certify the request: Failing to certify the request can result in delays or rejection of your request.
- Inconsistent information: Ensure that all information is consistent throughout the form to avoid delays or rejection of your request.
- Failure to follow instructions: Failing to follow instructions can result in delays or rejection of your request.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your DA Form 4187 is properly filled out and submitted for approval.
Conclusion
Filling out the new DA Form 4187 requires attention to detail and a clear understanding of the requirements and format. By following the guide provided and avoiding common mistakes, you can ensure that your request is properly submitted and approved. Remember to read the instructions carefully, provide accurate and up-to-date information, and certify the request carefully. With these tips and the guide provided, you can navigate the process with confidence.
We encourage you to share your experiences and tips for filling out the DA Form 4187 in the comments below. If you have any questions or need further clarification, please don't hesitate to ask.
What is the purpose of the DA Form 4187?
+The DA Form 4187 is used to request and approve various personnel actions, such as changes in duty status, reassignments, and other administrative changes.
What are the key changes in the new DA Form 4187?
+The new DA Form 4187 has introduced significant changes in the format and requirements, including the addition of new sections and changes to the certification process.
What is the most common mistake to avoid when filling out the DA Form 4187?
+The most common mistake to avoid is providing incomplete or inaccurate information, which can result in delays or rejection of your request.