Request and Authority for Leave ARN39556 DAFORM31 000 EFILE 1 PDF

Understanding the Request and Authority for Leave

The DA Form 31, also known as the Request and Authority for Leave, is a critical document used by military personnel in the United States Army. This form is essential for requesting leave from duty, allowing service members to formally communicate their intention to take time off. The form captures necessary details such as the type of leave requested, dates of absence, and the reason for the leave. Understanding how to properly fill out this form is vital for ensuring that requests are processed efficiently and in accordance with military regulations.

Steps to Complete the DA Form 31

Filling out the DA Form 31 requires careful attention to detail. Here are the key steps to ensure accurate completion:

• Identify the type of leave: Determine whether the leave is for personal reasons, emergency, or other valid categories.
• Fill in personal information: Include your full name, rank, unit, and contact information.
• Specify leave dates: Clearly indicate the start and end dates of the requested leave period.
• Provide a reason: Briefly explain the reason for the leave request, which may be required for approval.
• Obtain necessary approvals: Ensure that the form is signed by your immediate supervisor and any other required authorities.

Legal Use of the DA Form 31

The DA Form 31 is legally binding and must be used in compliance with Army regulations. It serves as an official record of leave requests and approvals. Misuse of the form, such as falsifying information or failing to obtain proper signatures, can lead to disciplinary action. It is essential for service members to understand their rights and responsibilities when using this form to ensure compliance with military law.

Obtaining the DA Form 31

The DA Form 31 can be obtained through various channels. It is typically available at unit administrative offices or can be downloaded from official Army publications websites. Additionally, many units provide access to the form in a fillable PDF format, allowing for easier completion and submission. Ensuring that you have the most current version of the form is important, as outdated forms may not be accepted.

Examples of Using the DA Form 31

Service members may use the DA Form 31 in various scenarios, including:

• Family emergencies: Requesting leave to attend to urgent family matters.
• Vacation plans: Submitting a leave request for personal travel or leisure.
• Medical reasons: Taking leave for medical appointments or recovery from illness.

Each of these examples illustrates the form's versatility in accommodating the diverse needs of military personnel while ensuring that all requests are formally documented and approved.

Form Submission Methods

Once the DA Form 31 is completed, it can be submitted through several methods, depending on unit policies. Common submission methods include:

• In-person submission: Delivering the completed form directly to the unit's administrative office.
• Email submission: Sending a scanned copy of the signed form to the appropriate authority, if permitted.
• Online submission: Utilizing any digital systems established by the unit for processing leave requests.

Understanding the preferred submission method for your unit can help streamline the leave request process.