Fill Out Your Da 31 Form

Misunderstandings about the DA 31 form can lead to confusion for service members. Here are ten common misconceptions, along with clarifications to help you navigate the process more smoothly.

1. Misconception 1: The DA 31 form is only for annual leave.

This form is versatile. It covers various types of absences, including emergency leave, PCS leave, and more.

2. Misconception 2: Once submitted, the leave request cannot be changed.

In fact, you can request changes. If circumstances change, you can submit a new DA 31 form to modify your request.

3. Misconception 3: Only the requestor must sign the form.

While the requestor's signature is essential, supervisors and approving authorities must also sign to finalize the request.

4. Misconception 4: The DA 31 form guarantees leave approval.

Approval is not automatic. The request is subject to the needs of the service and must be reviewed by a supervisor and an approving authority.

5. Misconception 5: You cannot take non-chargeable leave.

You can request non-chargeable leave. However, it must be justified, and approval is not guaranteed.

6. Misconception 6: The form is not necessary for short absences.

Even for short absences, submitting a DA 31 form is recommended to maintain proper documentation and ensure compliance with regulations.

7. Misconception 7: The leave address is optional.

Providing a leave address is required. It helps the military contact you if necessary during your absence.

8. Misconception 8: You can submit the form verbally.

All requests must be documented in writing using the DA 31 form to ensure clarity and accountability.

9. Misconception 9: There is no deadline for submitting the form.

Timely submission is crucial. Each command may have specific deadlines, so it’s best to check with your unit.

10. Misconception 10: The DA 31 form is not subject to privacy regulations.

This form is indeed subject to the Privacy Act of 1974, which means your information is protected and handled with care.

Understanding these misconceptions can help you navigate the leave process more effectively and ensure that your requests are handled appropriately.

• Leave Authorization Form: Similar to the DA 31, this document is used to formally request and authorize leave for military personnel. It captures essential details about the leave request, including dates and type of leave.

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• Travel Orders: Travel orders are issued to authorize travel for military members. Like the DA 31, they specify the purpose of travel, duration, and any allowances, ensuring clarity on the member’s absence.

• Request for Temporary Duty (TDY) Orders: This form is similar in that it requests permission for temporary duty assignments. It outlines the duration and purpose of the TDY, paralleling the leave request process.

• Application for Leave of Absence (Non-Military): This civilian document requests time off from work. It shares similarities with the DA 31 in its structure, requiring details like the reason for absence and the duration of leave.

• Emergency Leave Request: This specialized form is used to request leave due to emergencies. Like the DA 31, it captures critical information about the situation and the requested leave dates.

• Leave Extension Request: This document allows a service member to request an extension of their leave. It mirrors the DA 31 in that it requires details about the original leave and the new requested dates.

• Leave Settlement Form: Used to finalize leave balances upon separation or retirement, this form is similar as it also tracks leave usage and balances, much like the DA 31.

• Deployment Orders: These orders outline the terms of a service member's deployment. They are similar in that they specify the duration of absence from the home station, akin to the leave request process.

• Medical Leave Request: This form is used to request leave for medical reasons. It shares the same intent as the DA 31, focusing on the need for absence and the duration of leave.

• Absence Without Leave (AWOL) Notification: While this document serves a different purpose, it also deals with absence from duty. It highlights the importance of formally documenting any absence, similar to the DA 31.

The DA 31 form is a critical document used by military personnel to request leave. Along with this form, several other documents may be required to ensure proper processing of the leave request. Below is a list of commonly associated forms and documents.

• Leave and Earnings Statement (LES): This document provides a detailed account of a service member's pay and leave balance. It is essential for verifying the amount of accrued leave available for use.
• Unit Leave Policy: Each military unit may have specific guidelines regarding leave requests. This document outlines the procedures and requirements for requesting leave within that unit.
• Medical Documentation: In cases where leave is requested for medical reasons, appropriate medical documentation may be required. This can include doctor's notes or other relevant health records to support the leave request.
• Travel Orders: If the leave involves travel, travel orders may be necessary. These orders authorize the service member to travel to a specific location during their leave period.

Understanding these associated documents can help streamline the leave request process and ensure compliance with military regulations.