Da 31 Fillable Leave Form: Your Essential Guide to Requesting Military Leave
If you are serving in the U.S. Army, requesting time off isn't just a matter of sending a quick email—it requires proper documentation. The backbone of this process is the DA Form 31, officially known as the Request and Authority for Leave. Navigating this form can sometimes feel like a mission itself, especially when time is tight.
This comprehensive guide is designed to walk you through the specifics of the Da 31 Fillable Leave Form. We'll show you why using the fillable version is smarter, how to complete it accurately, and ensure your well-deserved leave gets approved smoothly and quickly.
What Exactly is the Da 31 Fillable Leave Form?
The DA Form 31 is the official document used by all Army personnel to request permission for absence from duty. This includes standard annual leave (ordinary leave), convalescent leave, emergency leave, and even Permissive Temporary Duty (PTDY).
Essentially, this form serves two primary functions. First, it's your formal request to your chain of command. Second, once approved, it acts as the official authority granting you the time away, protecting you from being labeled Absent Without Leave (AWOL).
Understanding the DA 31 is non-negotiable for every soldier. It's the gatekeeper to your vacation time, ensuring accountability for your whereabouts and maintaining operational readiness for your unit.
Why Use the Fillable Version of DA Form 31?
While paper copies still exist, the digital Da 31 Fillable Leave Form is overwhelmingly the preferred method today. Why? Simply put, it saves time and reduces errors—something your S1 shop will certainly appreciate.
Using the fillable PDF format ensures that your input is legible, which drastically cuts down on processing delays. Furthermore, some fillable forms have built-in validation or auto-calculate fields, reducing the headache of manual calculation or handwritten mistakes.
Here are the key benefits of going digital:
- Clarity and Legibility: No more trying to decipher messy handwriting. Typed text is professional and easy to read.
- Faster Processing: Clear forms mean S1 personnel can process the request faster, getting you closer to your time off.
- Error Reduction: Digital entry helps ensure crucial data like DoD IDs and contact numbers are accurate.
- Easy Storage: You can save a template or a copy of your completed DA 31 for future reference or audit purposes.
Step-by-Step: How to Properly Fill Out Your DA 31
Completing the Da 31 Fillable Leave Form requires attention to detail. Skipping even one box can result in the form being kicked back, delaying your leave start date. Follow these steps sequentially to ensure success:
- Blocks 1–6 (Personal Data): Fill in your full name (Last, First, MI), rank, SSN/DoD ID, organization (unit name and address), and the date you are preparing the request. Ensure your organization name is precise (e.g., C CO, 1-12 IN BN, 2 BDE, 4 ID).
- Block 7 (Control Number): Leave this blank. This is usually assigned by the S1 or administrative office for tracking.
- Block 8 (Type of Leave): Check the appropriate box. The vast majority of requests will be "Ordinary Leave."
- Blocks 9–10 (Leave Dates): Enter the exact date you wish to depart (Block 9) and the date you wish to return (Block 10). Remember that your departure date is usually the day you are excused from duty, and the return date is the day you report back to duty.
- Block 11 (Days of Leave): Calculate the number of calendar days between your departure and return dates (inclusive of the departure date, exclusive of the return date).
- Block 12 (Current Leave Balance): This is crucial. Check with your finance office or use your latest LES (Leave and Earnings Statement) to determine your current accrued leave balance.
- Blocks 13–14 (Address and Phone): Provide the specific address and contact number where you can be reached while on leave. This must be a location, not just "traveling." If traveling, list the first destination.
- Block 15 (Signature): Sign and date the form. Your digital signature may be acceptable if using specific military systems, but often a wet signature is required after printing.
Once you've completed these sections, the form moves up the chain of command for recommendation (Blocks 16 and 17) and final approval (Block 18).
Key Sections of the Da 31 Fillable Leave Form You Can't Miss
Even though the entire form is important, there are a few boxes on the Da 31 Fillable Leave Form that routinely cause delays if filled out incorrectly. Focusing on these high-risk areas will dramatically increase your chances of swift approval.
- Block 8 (Type of Leave): Be precise. If you check "Transition Leave," be prepared to provide additional supporting documentation (DD 214 orders, retirement date, etc.).
- Block 12 (Current Leave Balance): If you request more days than you currently have accrued, your form will be immediately denied, unless it is a special circumstance like Advance Leave or Convalescent Leave, which requires command approval.
- Block 13 (Address): If your destination is OCONUS (outside the Continental U.S.), you may need to complete additional paperwork and receive special clearance before the DA 31 is authorized. Always include the country if traveling abroad.
- Block 17 (Recommended by): While you don't fill this out, ensure your squad leader, team leader, or NCOIC reviews and signs this block promptly. Their recommendation is the first hurdle in the approval process.
Navigating Leave Types (Ordinary vs. Emergency Leave)
Most soldiers utilize Ordinary Leave for vacations and holidays, drawing down their accrued leave balance. This requires advance planning and submission of the Da 31 Fillable Leave Form well ahead of time, usually 30 days or more, depending on unit SOP.
Emergency Leave, however, is reserved for immediate family emergencies (e.g., serious illness or death). When requesting emergency leave, you will often submit the form retroactively or via electronic submission while you are already traveling. This type of leave usually requires verification (such as Red Cross notification) to justify the rapid departure.
Submitting and Tracking Your DA Form 31 Request
Once the soldier portion is complete (Blocks 1-15), submit the Da 31 Fillable Leave Form to your immediate supervisor. They will review it, verify your leave balance, and initiate the clearance process.
Your leadership is responsible for ensuring the following happens before approval:
- Safety Briefing completion.
- Clearing procedures (signing out on critical areas like the Arms Room, Supply, Medical).
- Verification that the requested dates do not interfere with mandatory unit training or deployments.
After your supervisor and company commander approve it, the form is officially stamped and returned to you. **Crucially, you must keep a signed, approved copy of the DA Form 31 with you at all times while on leave.** This is your proof of authorized absence.
Upon your return, you must report to the S1 or designated area immediately, presenting your approved DA 31 to sign in (Block 21) and confirm your return to duty status. Failure to sign in promptly may result in you being charged extra days of leave or potentially marked AWOL.
Conclusion
The Da 31 Fillable Leave Form is a crucial piece of administrative paperwork that ensures accountability, continuity, and proper tracking of military personnel. By utilizing the fillable version and paying close attention to the details outlined above, you can streamline the approval process and enjoy your time off without administrative worry.
Remember, submitting a fully completed and accurate DA 31 is the first step toward a relaxing and authorized break. Be proactive, check your leave balance, and communicate clearly with your leadership. Happy travels!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About DA Form 31
- Can I use the Da 31 Fillable Leave Form if I am already deployed?
- Yes, the DA 31 is used everywhere the Army operates. However, the approval authority and submission process may be routed electronically and follow specific theater policies. Always consult your deployment S1 or administrative section.
- What happens if my leave is denied?
- If your leave is denied, the approving authority (usually the Company Commander or higher) must document the reason in Block 18b. If you feel the denial was unjustified, you should discuss it professionally with your NCO support channel.
- Do I need a separate DA 31 for Permissive TDY (PTDY)?
- Yes, PTDY requires a DA Form 31. You check the "Other" box in Block 8 and specify "PTDY" or "Excess Leave" in the provided space. PTDY does not charge against your accrued leave balance, but it still requires formal authorization.
- Is the Da 31 Fillable Leave Form the same as a DD 214?
- Absolutely not. The DA 31 is for temporary leave requests. The DD 214 is the Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, which is a permanent record of service upon separation or retirement.
Da 31 Fillable Leave Form
Da 31 Fillable Leave Form Wallpapers
Collection of da 31 fillable leave form wallpapers for your desktop and mobile devices.
Vibrant Da 31 Fillable Leave Form Photo Digital Art
Discover an amazing da 31 fillable leave form background image, ideal for personalizing your devices with vibrant colors and intricate designs.
Mesmerizing Da 31 Fillable Leave Form Image in HD
Discover an amazing da 31 fillable leave form background image, ideal for personalizing your devices with vibrant colors and intricate designs.
Vivid Da 31 Fillable Leave Form Wallpaper Digital Art
Explore this high-quality da 31 fillable leave form image, perfect for enhancing your desktop or mobile wallpaper.
Gorgeous Da 31 Fillable Leave Form Scene Collection
Find inspiration with this unique da 31 fillable leave form illustration, crafted to provide a fresh look for your background.
Lush Da 31 Fillable Leave Form Picture Digital Art
Find inspiration with this unique da 31 fillable leave form illustration, crafted to provide a fresh look for your background.
Stunning Da 31 Fillable Leave Form Wallpaper Digital Art
This gorgeous da 31 fillable leave form photo offers a breathtaking view, making it a perfect choice for your next wallpaper.
Lush Da 31 Fillable Leave Form Capture Concept
This gorgeous da 31 fillable leave form photo offers a breathtaking view, making it a perfect choice for your next wallpaper.
Captivating Da 31 Fillable Leave Form Picture Concept
This gorgeous da 31 fillable leave form photo offers a breathtaking view, making it a perfect choice for your next wallpaper.
Lush Da 31 Fillable Leave Form Photo Nature
A captivating da 31 fillable leave form scene that brings tranquility and beauty to any device.
Amazing Da 31 Fillable Leave Form Image Art
Transform your screen with this vivid da 31 fillable leave form artwork, a true masterpiece of digital design.
Lush Da 31 Fillable Leave Form Image Concept
This gorgeous da 31 fillable leave form photo offers a breathtaking view, making it a perfect choice for your next wallpaper.
Amazing Da 31 Fillable Leave Form Image for Desktop
Explore this high-quality da 31 fillable leave form image, perfect for enhancing your desktop or mobile wallpaper.
Serene Da 31 Fillable Leave Form Design Collection
Transform your screen with this vivid da 31 fillable leave form artwork, a true masterpiece of digital design.
Captivating Da 31 Fillable Leave Form Picture Photography
This gorgeous da 31 fillable leave form photo offers a breathtaking view, making it a perfect choice for your next wallpaper.
Vibrant Da 31 Fillable Leave Form Landscape Photography
Explore this high-quality da 31 fillable leave form image, perfect for enhancing your desktop or mobile wallpaper.
Serene Da 31 Fillable Leave Form Picture Art
Discover an amazing da 31 fillable leave form background image, ideal for personalizing your devices with vibrant colors and intricate designs.
Exquisite Da 31 Fillable Leave Form Artwork Digital Art
Immerse yourself in the stunning details of this beautiful da 31 fillable leave form wallpaper, designed for a captivating visual experience.
Serene Da 31 Fillable Leave Form Scene Collection
Transform your screen with this vivid da 31 fillable leave form artwork, a true masterpiece of digital design.
Detailed Da 31 Fillable Leave Form Photo for Mobile
Experience the crisp clarity of this stunning da 31 fillable leave form image, available in high resolution for all your screens.
Exquisite Da 31 Fillable Leave Form Picture Digital Art
Immerse yourself in the stunning details of this beautiful da 31 fillable leave form wallpaper, designed for a captivating visual experience.
Download these da 31 fillable leave form wallpapers for free and use them on your desktop or mobile devices.