The Ultimate Guide To Army Da 31 Everything You Need To Know

2 min read 16-07-2025

The Ultimate Guide To Army Da 31 Everything You Need To Know

The DA Form 31, also known as the "Request and Authorization for Leave," is a crucial document for any soldier in the United States Army. Understanding its purpose, completion, and potential pitfalls is essential for smooth leave processing and avoiding unnecessary delays or complications. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of everything you need to know about the DA Form 31.

What is DA Form 31?

DA Form 31 is the official Army form used to request and document leave. It serves as the primary record of a soldier's leave request, detailing the type of leave, duration, and reason for absence. Accurate and complete completion of this form is critical for the timely approval and processing of leave. Failure to properly fill out the form can lead to delays or even denial of leave requests.

Key Sections of DA Form 31: A Detailed Breakdown

The DA Form 31 is relatively straightforward, but understanding each section is vital for successful leave processing. Let's break down the key components:

Section I: Soldier Information

This section requires basic identifying information about the soldier, including:

Name: Full legal name as it appears on official military records.
Rank: Current military rank.
SSN: Social Security Number.
Unit: The soldier's current assigned unit.
Contact Information: Current address, phone number, and email address.

Section II: Leave Information

This is the core of the form, specifying the details of the requested leave:

Type of Leave: Specify the type of leave being requested (e.g., ordinary leave, emergency leave, convalescent leave). Ensure accuracy, as different leave types have different regulations and approval processes.
Leave Dates: Clearly state the requested start and end dates of the leave period. Be precise to avoid confusion.
Number of Days: Calculate and enter the total number of days requested.
Address While on Leave: Provide the address where the soldier will be staying during their leave.

Section III: Approving Authority

This section outlines the chain of command for leave approval. Understanding your unit's specific approval process is crucial.

Section IV: Additional Information

This section allows for any additional information relevant to the leave request. This might include:

Reason for Leave: While not always mandatory, providing a brief explanation can be helpful, especially for emergency or special leave requests.
Emergency Contact: Provide contact information for someone who can be reached in case of emergency while the soldier is on leave.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Incomplete Information: Ensure all sections are filled out completely and accurately. Missing information will delay processing.
Inaccurate Dates: Double-check the leave dates to avoid errors.
Improper Approval Chain: Familiarize yourself with your unit's leave approval process.
Unclear Reason for Leave: While not always required, a concise explanation can expedite the process, especially for extenuating circumstances.

Conclusion: Mastering DA Form 31

The DA Form 31 is a vital tool for soldiers seeking leave. By understanding its components and avoiding common mistakes, you can ensure a smooth and efficient leave process. Remember to always double-check your information before submitting the form to your commanding officer. Proper completion of this form is key to enjoying your well-deserved time off.