Homepage Da 31 Form

Da 31 Sample

Instructions on Utilizing Da 31

Filling out the DA 31 form is essential for requesting leave. Once completed, the form must be submitted to the appropriate authority for approval. Follow these steps to ensure accurate completion.

  1. Locate the form and ensure you have the latest version.
  2. Fill in the CONTROL NUMBER at the top of the form.
  3. In PART I - REQUESTOR INFORMATION, enter your NAME (Last, First, Middle Initial).
  4. Input your DOD ID.
  5. Provide your RANK.
  6. Enter the DATE in the format YYYYMMDD.
  7. Fill in your LEAVE ADDRESS including Street, City, State, ZIP Code, and Phone Number.
  8. Complete the ORGANIZATION, STATION, POC EMAIL AND PHONE NUMBER section.
  9. Select the TYPE OF ABSENCE by checking the appropriate box.
  10. In 9a, enter the start date of your leave (YYYYMMDD).
  11. Fill in 9b with the total number of days requested.
  12. In 9c, enter the end date of your leave (YYYYMMDD).
  13. Complete sections 10a, 10b, and 10c regarding accrued and requested leave.
  14. Sign and date the form in 11 as the requestor.
  15. Have your supervisor fill in their NAME, TITLE, and RANK/GRADE in 12. They should indicate their recommendation and sign the form.
  16. In 13, the approving authority must fill in their NAME, TITLE, and RANK/GRADE, indicate action, and sign.
  17. Complete sections 14, 15, and 16 as required for departure, extension, and return signatures.
  18. Finally, add any remarks in section 17 if necessary.

Misconceptions

Understanding the DA 31 form, which is used for requesting leave in the military, can be complicated. Here are four common misconceptions about this form:

  • Misconception 1: The DA 31 form is only for annual leave requests.
  • Many people believe that the DA 31 is solely for requesting annual leave. In reality, it covers a variety of leave types, including emergency leave, PCS leave, and even environmental morale leave. Each type serves different purposes and may have different eligibility criteria.

  • Misconception 2: Only the individual requesting leave can fill out the form.
  • It is a common belief that only the service member can complete the DA 31. However, supervisors are permitted to sign on behalf of the requestor if they are unavailable. This flexibility ensures that leave requests can still be processed efficiently.

  • Misconception 3: Approval is guaranteed once the DA 31 is submitted.
  • Some may assume that submitting the DA 31 automatically results in approval. This is not the case. Each request must go through a review process, and approval is contingent upon various factors, including the needs of the unit and the availability of leave.

  • Misconception 4: The DA 31 form does not require detailed information.
  • Another misunderstanding is that the form can be filled out with minimal information. In fact, the DA 31 requires specific details such as the type of absence, dates requested, and the requestor's contact information. Accurate and complete information is essential for processing the request.

Documents used along the form

The DA Form 31 is an essential document for requesting leave in the military. However, it is often accompanied by several other forms and documents that help facilitate the leave process. Below is a list of some common forms and documents that may be used alongside the DA Form 31.

  • Leave and Earnings Statement (LES): This document provides a detailed breakdown of a service member's pay, deductions, and leave balances. It is crucial for verifying available leave and ensuring that the leave request is accurate.
  • DA Form 5001: This form is used for documenting a service member's leave status. It helps track leave taken and remaining, ensuring that all records are up to date for both the service member and their command.
  • Trailer Bill of Sale Form: For anyone involved in trailer transactions, the essential Trailer Bill of Sale documentation is vital for a seamless ownership transfer.
  • DA Form 4187: Also known as the Personnel Action form, this document is utilized for various personnel actions, including leave extensions or changes in leave status. It provides a formal way to request modifications to the original leave request.
  • DA Form 3349: This form is used for physical profiles and is important if a service member's leave is related to medical issues. It documents any limitations and ensures that the leave aligns with the member's health needs.
  • Travel Orders: If the leave involves travel, travel orders may be required. These documents outline the specifics of the travel, including destinations and any associated costs, which may be reimbursable under certain conditions.
  • Medical Documentation: In cases of emergency leave or leave for medical reasons, appropriate medical documentation may be required. This ensures that the leave is justified and provides the necessary support for the request.

Each of these documents plays a vital role in ensuring that the leave process is smooth and compliant with military regulations. It is important to gather all necessary paperwork to avoid any delays or complications during the leave approval process.