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Free DA 5960 PDF Template

The DA 5960 form is a crucial document used by members of the United States Army to request or change Basic Allowance for Quarters (BAQ) and Variable Housing Allowance (VHA). This form is essential for active duty and reserve soldiers seeking housing benefits or adjustments to their current living allowances. Understanding and accurately completing this form ensures military personnel receive the correct financial support for their housing needs.

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Outline

For many military service members, managing personal affairs and understanding the benefits available to them can often seem as complex as their day-to-day duties. Among the various forms and documents they must familiarize themselves with is the DA 5960 form, a crucial piece of paperwork for those seeking to claim or modify Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) entitlements. This form serves as an application that allows service members to provide their command with the necessary information to adjust their housing allowance according to changes in their marital status, dependents, or living situation. It's a key document for ensuring that military personnel receive the appropriate compensation for their housing needs, whether they choose to reside on or off a military installation. Navigating the DA 5960 form requires a clear understanding of one's personal circumstances, the specifics of the entitlements, and how changes in one's life can impact the amount of support received. For many, it represents an important aspect of military benefits that, when accurately reported and properly managed, can significantly affect their financial well-being and housing satisfaction.

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AUTHORIZATION TO START, STOP, OR CHANGE

PRIVACY ACT STATEMENT

BASIC ALLOWANCE FOR QUARTERS (BAQ),

AUTHORITY:

37 USC 403; Public Law 96-343; EO 9397.

AND/OR VARIABLE HOUSING ALLOWANCE (VHA)

PRINCIPLE PURPOSE:

To start, adjust or terminate military member's entitlement

For use of this form, see AR 37-104-4; the proponent agency is ASA(FM)

to basic allowance for quarters

(BAQ) and/or variable

housing allowance (VHA).

NAME

(Last, First, MI)

ROUTINE USE:

To adjust member's military pay record, information may

be disclosed to Army components, such as USAFAC,

major commands, and other Army installations; to other

DOD components; other federal agencies such as IRS,

SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER

GRADE

Social Security Administration and VA, GAO, members of

Congress; State and local government; US and State

courts, and various law enforcement agencies. Social

Security Number (SSN) is used for positive identification.

TYPE OF ACTION

DISCLOSURE IS VOLUNTARY: Nondisclosure may result in nonpayment of BAQ and/or

START

CANCEL

CHANGE

REPORT

VHA. Disclosure of your SSN is voluntary. However, this

form will not be processed without your SSN because

the Army identifies you for pay purposes by your SSN.

CORRECT

STOP

RECERTIFICATION

DUTY LOCATION (Include Station, Name, City, State, and Zip Code)

6. DATE/ACTION

BAQ TYPE

(YYYYMMDD)

WITH DEPENDENTS

PARTIAL

WITHOUT DEPENDENTS

MARITAL/DEPENDENCY STATUS

QUARTERS ASSIGNMENT/AVAILABILITY

SINGLE

b. MARRIED

c. DIVORCED (see

ADEQUATE

INADEQUATE

(see blocks (1), (2) & (3))

blocks (1), (2) & (3))

(see block (1))

(see blocks (1), (2) & (4))

LEGALLY SEPARATED

DEPENDENT CHILD

TRANSIENT

NOT AVAILABLE

(see blocks (1), (2) & (3))

(see blocks (4), (5) & (6))

(see block (3))

(1)

Spouse/Former

(2)

Spouse/Former

(3)

Date of Marriage,

(1)

QUARTERS

(2) FAIR RENTAL

Spouse SSN

Spouse Duty Station

Divorce/Separation

NO.

VALUE $

(4)

Child in

Member

Spouse

Former Spouse

Other

(3)

FROM:

TO:

Custody of:

(4)

(5)

If you check "OTHER" above, prepare DD Form 137 to establish dependency.

MEMBER ELECTION

COMMANDER

(Member

grade E7 and

DETERMINATION

(6)

If child support received from another military member, complete (1), (2) & (3).

above)

(Attached)

10.

DEPENDENTS/SHARERS (Continue on back if required)

NAME OF DEPENDENT/SHARER

COMPLETE CURRENT ADDRESS

(Include ZIP Code)

RELATIONSHIP

DOB OF CHILDREN

11.

CERTIFICATION OF DEPENDENT SUPPORT

I certify that I can provide, or willing to provide, adequate support for the above named dependents. I am aware that failure to support the above named

dependents may result in stopping BAQ and recouping BAQ for any prior periods/nonsupport.

IAW service regulations. I certify that the dependency status of my primary dependents, on whose behalf I am receiving BAQ, has not changed so as to affect

my entitlement thereto for the period.

12.

EXPENSES, IF AUTHORIZED, I AM REQUESTING VHA BASED ON

My permanent duty station:

My dependent's location:

Both my permanent duty station and dependent's location.

Monthly Expenses:

Member

Dependent

Sharer/Lease Information

Address Information

(1)

Mortgage (PITI)

or Rent

(1)

Rental/Residential Address:

(1)

Landlord's Name and Address:

(2)

Insurance

(3)

Other

(2)

Effective Date:

(3)

Expiration Date:

(2)

Landlord's Phone No.

TOTALS

(4)

Number of Sharers

(show name(s) and address in block 10.)

I certify ALL information regarding this authorization is correct. I will immediately notify the FAO/HRO of any changes in the information above, due to divorce,

marriage, death, living in government quarters etc, which could affect by BAQ or VHA entitlement.

IMPORTANT: Making a false statement or claim against the US Government is punishable by courts-martial. The penalty for willfully making a false claim or a false

statement in connection with claims is a maximum fine of $10,000 or imprisonment for 5 years, or both.

13.

MEMBER'S SIGNATURE

14. DATE

15.

CERTIFYING OFFICER'S SIGNATURE

16. DATE

DA FORM 5960, SEP 1990

REPLACES DA FORM 3298, JUL 80 AND DA FORM 5545, JUL 86 WHICH ARE OBSOLETE

APD AEM v2.06ES

AUTHORIZATION TO START, STOP, OR CHANGE

PRIVACY ACT STATEMENT

BASIC ALLOWANCE FOR QUARTERS

(BAQ),

AUTHORITY:

37 USC 403; Public Law 96-343; EO 9397.

AND/OR VARIABLE HOUSING ALLOWANCE (VHA)

PRINCIPLE PURPOSE:

To start, adjust or terminate military member's entitlement

For use of this form, see AR 37-104-4; the proponent agency is ASA (FM)

to basic allowance for quarters (BAQ) and/or

variable housing allowance

(VHA).

NAME

(Last, First, MI)

ROUTINE USE:

To adjust member's military pay record, information may

be disclosed to Army components, such as USAFAC,

major commands, and other Army installations; to other

DOD components; other federal agencies such as IRS,

SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER

GRADE

Social Security Administration and VA, GAO, members

of Congress; State and local government; US and State

courts, and various law enforcement agencies. Social

Security Number (SSN) is used for positive identification.

TYPE OF ACTION

DISCLOSURE IS VOLUNTARY: Nondisclosure may result in nonpayment of BAQ and/or

START

CANCEL

CHANGE

REPORT

VHA. Disclosure of your SSN is voluntary. However, this

form will not be processed without your SSN because

the Army identifies you for pay purposes by your SSN.

CORRECT

STOP

RECERTIFICATION

DUTY LOCATION (Include Station, Name, City, State, and Zip Code)

6. DATE/ACTION

BAQ TYPE

(YYYYMMDD)

WITH DEPENDENTS

PARTIAL

WITHOUT DEPENDENTS

MARITAL/DEPENDENCY STATUS

QUARTERS ASSIGNMENT/AVAILABILITY

SINGLE

b. MARRIED

c. DIVORCED (see

ADEQUATE

INADEQUATE

(see blocks (1), (2) & (3))

blocks (1), (2) & (3))

(see block (1))

(see blocks (1), (2) & (4))

LEGALLY SEPARATED

DEPENDENT CHILD

TRANSIENT

NOT AVAILABLE

(see blocks (1), (2) & (3))

(see blocks (4), (5) & (6))

(see block (3))

(1)

Spouse/Former

(2)

Spouse/Former

(3)

Date of Marriage,

(1)

QUARTERS

(2)

FAIR RENTAL

Spouse SSN

Spouse Duty Station

Divorce/Separation

NO.

VALUE $

(4)

Child in

Member

Spouse

Former Spouse

Other

(3)

FROM:

TO:

Custody of:

(4)

(5)

If you check "OTHER" above, prepare DD Form 137 to establish dependency.

MEMBER ELECTION

COMMANDER

(Member

grade E7 and

DETERMINATION

(6)

If child support received from another military member, complete (1), (2) & (3).

above)

(Attached)

10.

DEPENDENTS/SHARERS (Continue on back if required)

NAME OF DEPENDENT/SHARER

COMPLETE CURRENT ADDRESS

(Include ZIP Code)

RELATIONSHIP

DOB OF CHILDREN

11.

CERTIFICATION OF DEPENDENT SUPPORT

I certify that I provide, or am will to provide adequate support for the above named dependents. I am aware that failure to support the above named

dependents may result in stopping BAQ and recouping BAQ for any prior periods/nonsupport.

IAW service regulations, I certify that the dependency status of my primary dependents, on whose behalf I am receiving BAQ, has not changed so as to affect

my entitlement thereto for the period

12.

EXPENSES, IF AUTHORIZED, I AM REQUESTING VHA BASED ON

My permanent duty station:

My dependent's location:

Both my permanent duty station and dependent's location.

Monthly Expenses:

Member

Dependent

Sharer/Lease Information

Address Information

(1)

Mortgage (PITI)

or Rent

(1)

Rental/Residential Address:

(1)

Landlord's Name and Address:

(2)

Insurance

(3)

Other

(2)

Effective Date:

(3)

Expiration Date:

(2)

Landlord's Phone No.

TOTALS

(4)

Number of Sharers

(show name(s) and address in block 10.)

I certify ALL information regarding this authorization is correct. I will immediately notify the FAO/HRO of any changes in the information above, due to divorce,

marriage, death, living in government quarters etc, which could affect by BAQ or VHA entitlement.

IMPORTANT: Making a false statement or claim against the US Government is punishable by courts-martial. The penalty for willfully making a false claim or a false

statement in connection with claims is a maximum fine of $10,000 or imprisonment for 5 years, or both.

13.

MEMBER'S SIGNATURE

14. DATE

15.

CERTIFYING OFFICER'S SIGNATURE

16. DATE

DA FORM 5960, SEP 1990

REPLACES DA FORM 3298, JUL 80 AND DA FORM 5545, JUL 86 WHICH ARE OBSOLETE

APD AEM v2.06ES

AUTHORIZATION TO START, STOP, OR CHANGE

PRIVACY ACT STATEMENT

BASIC ALLOWANCE FOR QUARTERS

(BAQ),

AUTHORITY:

37 USC 403; Public Law 96-343; EO 9397.

AND/OR VARIABLE HOUSING ALLOWANCE (VHA)

PRINCIPLE PURPOSE:

To start, adjust or terminate military member's entitlement

For use of this form, see AR 37-104-4; the proponent agency is ASA (FM)

to basic allowance for quarters (BAQ) and/or

variable housing allowance

(VHA).

NAME

(Last, First, MI)

ROUTINE USE:

To adjust member's military pay record, information may

be disclosed to Army components, such as USAFAC,

major commands, and other Army installations; to other

DOD components; other federal agencies such as IRS,

SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER

GRADE

Social Security Administration and VA, GAO, members

of Congress; State and local government; US and State

courts, and various law enforcement agencies. Social

Security Number (SSN) is used for positive identification.

TYPE OF ACTION

DISCLOSURE IS VOLUNTARY: Nondisclosure may result in nonpayment of BAQ and/or

START

CANCEL

CHANGE

REPORT

VHA. Disclosure of your SSN is voluntary. However, this

form will not be processed without your SSN because

the Army identifies you for pay purposes by your SSN.

CORRECT

STOP

RECERTIFICATION

DUTY LOCATION (Include Station, Name, City, State, and Zip Code)

6. DATE/ACTION

BAQ TYPE

(YYYYMMDD)

WITH DEPENDENTS

PARTIAL

WITHOUT DEPENDENTS

MARITAL/DEPENDENCY STATUS

QUARTERS ASSIGNMENT/AVAILABILITY

SINGLE

b. MARRIED

c. DIVORCED (see

ADEQUATE

INADEQUATE

(see blocks (1), (2) & (3))

blocks (1), (2) & (3))

(see block (1))

(see blocks (1), (2) & (4))

LEGALLY SEPARATED

DEPENDENT CHILD

TRANSIENT

NOT AVAILABLE

(see blocks (1), (2) & (3))

(see blocks (4), (5) & (6))

(see block (3))

(1)

Spouse/Former

(2)

Spouse/Former

(3)

Date of Marriage,

(1)

QUARTERS

(2)

FAIR RENTAL

Spouse SSN

Spouse Duty Station

Divorce/Separation

NO.

VALUE $

(4)

Child in

Member

Spouse

Former Spouse

Other

(3)

FROM:

TO:

Custody of:

(4)

(5)

If you check "OTHER" above, prepare DD Form 137 to establish dependency.

MEMBER ELECTION

COMMANDER

(Member

grade E7 and

DETERMINATION

(6)

If child support received from another military member, complete (1), (2) & (3).

above)

(Attached)

10.

DEPENDENTS/SHARERS (Continue on back if required)

NAME OF DEPENDENT/SHARER

COMPLETE CURRENT ADDRESS

(Include ZIP Code)

RELATIONSHIP

DOB OF CHILDREN

11.

CERTIFICATION OF DEPENDENT SUPPORT

I certify that I provide, or am will to provide adequate support for the above named dependents. I am aware that failure to support the above named

dependents may result in stopping BAQ and recouping BAQ for any prior periods/nonsupport.

IAW service regulations, I certify that the dependency status of my primary dependents, on whose behalf I am receiving BAQ, has not changed so as to affect

my entitlement thereto for the period

12.

EXPENSES, IF AUTHORIZED, I AM REQUESTING VHA BASED ON

My permanent duty station:

My dependent's location:

Both my permanent duty station and dependent's location.

Monthly Expenses:

Member

Dependent

Sharer/Lease Information

Address Information

(1)

Mortgage (PITI)

or Rent

(1)

Rental/Residential Address:

(1)

Landlord's Name and Address:

(2)

Insurance

(3)

Other

(2)

Effective Date:

(3)

Expiration Date:

(2)

Landlord's Phone No.

TOTALS

(4)

Number of Sharers

(show name(s) and address in block 10.)

I certify ALL information regarding this authorization is correct. I will immediately notify the FAO/HRO of any changes in the information above, due to divorce,

marriage, death, living in government quarters etc, which could affect by BAQ or VHA entitlement.

IMPORTANT: Making a false statement or claim against the US Government is punishable by courts-martial. The penalty for willfully making a false claim or a false

statement in connection with claims is a maximum fine of $10,000 or imprisonment for 5 years, or both.

13.

MEMBER'S SIGNATURE

14. DATE

15.

CERTIFYING OFFICER'S SIGNATURE

16. DATE

DA FORM 5960, SEP 1990

REPLACES DA FORM 3298, JUL 80 AND DA FORM 5545, JUL 86 WHICH ARE OBSOLETE

APD AEM v2.06ES

Get PDF Form

Document Attributes

Fact Name	Description
Form Purpose	The DA Form 5960 is used by the Department of the Army for authorizing Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH), and other types of housing allowances for soldiers.
Who Completes It	It is completed by Army personnel who are requesting an adjustment to their housing allowance or starting a new allowance after a change in their living situation.
When It's Used	This form is used whenever there's a need to start, stop, or change the amount of BAH, such as after getting married, divorced, having a child, or moving to a new location.
Required Information	It requires personal identification details, information about dependents, type of housing, certification of the information, and approval from the authorizing official.
Governing Laws	The form is governed by federal laws regarding military pay and allowances, which apply uniformly across all states.
Accessibility	The form is accessible through the Department of the Army’s official website and can be filled out digitally or printed and filled out by hand.

How to Fill Out DA 5960

Filling out the DA 5960 form is an important step for service members who are initiating, changing, or stopping Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) entitlements. This document plays a crucial role in ensuring that you and your family have the housing support necessary during your service. Understanding the correct way to complete this form not only expedites the process but also helps prevent any potential delays in receiving your benefits. Below are step-by-step instructions to guide you through each section of the DA 5960 form to ensure it's filled out accurately and thoroughly.

Gather all necessary supporting documentation, such as marriage certificates, divorce decrees, or orders directing geographical separation from dependents.
Enter your basic personal information in section 1. This includes your full name, grade, social security number, and branch of service.
In section 2, specify the type of action you’re requesting (start, stop, change) regarding your BAH entitlement.
Detail your dependent information in section 3, if applicable. This may include their names, relationship to you, and dates of birth.
Section 4 requires information about your current housing status. Indicate whether you're residing in government quarters or in civilian housing.
For those living off-post, section 5 asks for specifics about your residence, like the address, monthly rent or mortgage, and whether you have any roommates.
In section 6, certify your dependency status. This involves checking the appropriate box to confirm if you have any dependents, followed by sanctioning the form with your signature and date.
Section 7 is reserved for the reviewing official's use. They will complete this part of the form after verifying your submitted information.
Finally, ensure the form is review-ready by double-checking all filled sections for accuracy and completeness. Attach any required supporting documents before submission.

After submitting the DA 5960 form, it will be reviewed by your unit's personnel or finance office. This process can take some time, depending on the specific procedures and workload of the office in question. It's important to follow up if you haven't received an update or confirmation of your BAH entitlement change within a reasonable period. Keeping a copy of the form and any correspondence regarding your submission is also a good practice, ensuring you have all necessary records should any questions arise in the future.

More About DA 5960

What is a DA 5960 form?

The DA 5960 form, also known as the Authorization to Start, Stop, or Change Basic Allowance for Quarters (BAQ), and/or Variable Housing Allowance (VHA), is a document used by members of the United States military. This form allows service members to request changes to their housing allowances, accommodating different living situations such as changes in marital status, dependents, or residential location.
Who needs to fill out a DA 5960 form?

Any active duty or reserve member of the United States military may need to fill out a DA 5960 form if they are experiencing changes in their living circumstances that affect their housing allowances. This includes, but is not limited to, marriage, divorce, birth of a child, or a move to a new duty station.
How does one obtain a DA 5960 form?

The DA 5960 form can be obtained through several channels. Service members may request a copy from their unit's administrative office or download it from the official website of the United States Army. Additionally, support units and legal assistance offices typically have copies available.
What information is required to complete the DA 5960 form?

To accurately complete the DA 5960 form, service members must provide detailed personal information, including their full name, rank, and social security number. Information regarding current living arrangements, dependent details, and the specific changes requested to the housing allowance must also be provided. Proper documentation supporting the change, such as marriage certificates or orders to a new duty station, may be required to accompany the form.
What is the process for submitting a DA 5960 form?

After filling out the DA 5960 form, service members should submit it to their commanding officer or the designated representative in their unit. The form, along with any necessary supporting documents, will then undergo a review process. Once approved, the information will be forwarded to the appropriate finance office to implement the changes in housing allowance. It’s important for individuals to follow up on the status of their form to ensure the adjustments are made in a timely manner.
Are there any special considerations when filling out a DA 5960 form?

When completing a DA 5960 form, attention to detail and accuracy is crucial. Ensure all sections are filled out completely and legibly. Any mistake or omission can delay the processing time. Furthermore, be mindful of deadlines, especially when the changes involve time-sensitive events. It’s also advisable to keep a copy of the form and all accompanying documents for personal records. Consulting with a legal advisor or unit administrator can provide additional guidance and help avoid any potential issues.

Common mistakes

Filling out the DA 5960 form, also known as the Authorization to Start, Stop, or Change Basic Allowance for Quarters (BAQ), and/or Variable Housing Allowance (VHA), is a critical process for service members. This document plays a pivotal role in securing housing benefits rightfully due to them. Mistakes in this process can delay or result in the incorrect disbursement of benefits. Here, we'll discuss common errors people make when completing the DA 5960 form.

Not checking the current form version: The Department of the Army periodically updates the DA 5960 form. Using an outdated version may lead to a rejection of the application.
Incorrect personal information: Entering incorrect Social Security numbers, service numbers, or spelling names wrongly can create significant delays in processing.
Omitting dependent information: Failure to list all dependents accurately can result in receiving less benefit than entitled, as allowances are partially dependent on family size.
Incomplete length of assignment details: Not specifying or inaccurately stating the length of assignment can affect the eligibility and calculation of housing benefits.
Incorrect choice of allowance: Service members often confuse between Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) types or inaccurately select VHA when not applicable, leading to application errors.
Failure to include required signatures: The form requires signatures from the service member and, in some cases, the commanding officer or authorized representative. Missing signatures deem the form incomplete.
Not clarifying status changes: Many fail to update the form when experiencing a significant life event such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child, which affects the entitlement.
Leaving sections blank: Every question on the DA 5960 form must be answered. Leaving sections blank can lead to processing delays or the assumption of ineligibility for certain allowances.

When filling out the DA 5960 form, attention to detail is paramount. Ensuring the accuracy and completeness of every section facilitates a smoother process in securing housing allowances. Service members are encouraged to seek assistance if they encounter uncertainties during the completion of this form.

Documents used along the form

When handling matters related to the Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH), the DA Form 5960 is a crucial document for service members. It authorizes the start, stop, or adjustment of BAH and is often not the only form required during this process. To ensure a thorough and accurate handling of housing allowances and related benefits, several additional forms and documents are commonly used in conjunction with the DA Form 5960. This collection of documents helps streamline the administrative process, ensuring that service members receive the allowances they're entitled to without unnecessary delays.

DD Form 1351-2: The Travel Voucher or Subvoucher is essential for service members to claim reimbursement for official travel expenses. This form accompanies the DA Form 5960 when a service member relocates and seeks compensation for moving and travel expenses related to a Permanent Change of Station (PCS).
DA Form 31: Request and Authority for Leave is used by soldiers to request formal leave from their duties. This form is often required alongside the DA Form 5960 for processing adjustments in BAH when a service member is temporarily relocating or going on leave.
LES (Leave and Earnings Statement): This document provides a detailed account of a service member's pay, allowances, deductions, and leave status. It is crucial for verifying the service member's entitlement to certain allowances, including BAH.
Marriage Certificate: For service members who are claiming BAH at the with-dependents rate, a marriage certificate is required to verify the marital status and dependents.
Birth Certificates for Dependants: Similar to the marriage certificate, birth certificates for any dependents are needed to confirm eligibility for the with-dependents rate of BAH.
PCS Orders: Permanent Change of Station orders are required to verify a service member's relocation for duty, which directly affects BAH entitlements and rates.
Rental Agreement or Mortgage Statement: To adjust or start BAH payments, especially when claiming the with-dependents rate or when there is a change in housing status, a current rental agreement or mortgage statement will be necessary to provide proof of residence and housing costs.

Together, these documents ensure that any adjustments to a service member's Basic Allowance for Housing are accurately reflected and that they receive the proper entitlements based on their current status and needs. Each document plays a unique role in painting a full picture of the service member's eligibility and requirements for housing allowances. As situations change, these documents must be updated and resubmitted as necessary to keep all entitlements current.

Similar forms

DD Form 1351-2 (Travel Voucher or Subvoucher): Just like the DA 5960 form, which is used by service members to apply for basic allowance for housing (BAH), the DD Form 1351-2 is a document utilized by Department of Defense personnel to claim reimbursement for official travel. Both forms facilitate the provision of financial benefits and require detailed personal information to ensure eligibility and accurate computation of benefits.
DA Form 31 (Request and Authority for Leave): This form shares its purpose of administrative processing with the DA 5960. The DA Form 31 is used by Army personnel to request and authorize leave from duty. Similar to how the DA 5960 records housing allowance requests, DA Form 31 documents the specifics of a service member’s leave, playing a crucial role in personnel management.
BAH Application Form: Although not a specific form like the DA 5960, the general application documents for Basic Allowance for Housing across the different military branches serve a similar purpose. They are designed to collect information necessary to determine eligibility for housing allowances, reflecting the same financial assistance dimension as the DA 5960.
IRS Form W-4 (Employee’s Withholding Certificate): While not a military form, the IRS Form W-4 is analogous to the DA 5960 in that it collects financial information for determining the correct amount of federal income tax to withhold from employees' paychecks. Both forms are essential for accurately managing personal finances and benefits.
VA Form 26-1880 (Request for a Certificate of Eligibility): This form is used by veterans to apply for a home loan guarantee from the Department of Veterans Affairs. It is similar to the DA 5960 as both are involved in the process of securing housing benefits, albeit through different programs and for different purposes (one for allowance, the other for loan eligibility).
SF-86 (Questionnaire for National Security Positions): The SF-86 form is a detailed questionnaire used for conducting background checks on individuals applying for national security positions. While its purpose is significantly different from that of the DA 5960, both forms require comprehensive personal information and are critical to the approval process within their respective contexts.
DA Form 638 (Recommendation for Award): Similar to the DA 5960 in its administrative function, the DA Form 638 is used to recommend military personnel for awards and decorations. Both forms play a fundamental role in personnel management, recognizing the achievements and needs of service members through formal documentation.

Dos and Don'ts

Filling out the DA 5960 form, an authorization form used by the U.S. Army for Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH), necessitates careful attention to detail and accuracy. This guidance is designed to help individuals complete the form correctly, ensuring that they provide all necessary information without making common mistakes.

Do gather all required documents beforehand, such as military identification, proof of dependency, and marriage or birth certificates, if applicable. This ensures you have all the necessary information to accurately complete the form.
Do carefully read the instructions for each section of the DA 5960 before filling it out. Understanding what is required for each field can help prevent common errors.
Do use black ink or type your responses if the form is available in a fillable PDF format. This improves readability and ensures that the processing of your form is not delayed due to illegible handwriting.
Do double-check the accuracy of personal information, such as social security numbers and dates. Mistakes in these details can lead to processing delays or incorrect BAH calculations.
Do sign and date the form in the designated areas. An unsigned form is considered incomplete and will not be processed.
Don't leave any fields blank. If a section does not apply to you, write "N/A" to indicate this. Blank fields can cause unnecessary delays in the processing of your form.
Don't guess on dates or information you are unsure about. If necessary, take the time to verify the correct details to ensure the accuracy of your submission.
Don't use correction fluid or tape on the form. Mistakes should be neatly crossed out and initialed. Using correction fluid or tape can make the document appear altered, which could raise questions about its authenticity.
Don't submit the form without reviewing it for errors. Once completed, review the form to ensure all information is correct and complete. This final check can save you time by avoiding the need for corrections later.

Following these guidelines will help streamline the submission process and minimize the risk of errors that could affect your Basic Allowance for Housing entitlements. Remember, the key to successfully completing the DA 5960 form lies in being thorough, accurate, and prepared.

Misconceptions

The DA 5960 form, critical for members of the military to understand, is shrouded in misconceptions. Here's a clarification of some common misunderstandings:

It's only for high-ranking officers: Many believe that the DA 5960 form is exclusively for the use of high-ranking officers. In truth, this form is used by all ranks whenever there's a need to start, stop, or change Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) based on changes in their living situation.
It's complicated and time-consuming: The thought of military paperwork often brings images of complexity and long hours of filling out forms. However, the DA 5960 is designed to be straightforward, covering essential information related to housing allowances, making it relatively simple to fill out.
It's rarely necessary: Contrary to the assumption that the DA 5960 form is rarely needed, it's actually quite common. Service members might need to fill it out multiple times throughout their career, such as when they get married, have a child, or experience other changes affecting their housing status.
Errors have no significant consequences: Some might downplay the importance of accurately completing the DA 5960, but inaccuracies can lead to overpayments or underpayments in allowances. Such discrepancies can result in financial challenges and the need for repayments to the Department of Defense.
Approval is automatic: While it might seem that submission equals approval, the truth is that each DA 5960 form undergoes thorough review. Approval depends on the verification of the submitted information and the current eligibility of the service member.
Personal circumstances don't affect it: It's often misunderstood that personal circumstances have no impact on the DA 5960. In reality, personalized details such as marital status, dependents, and specific living arrangements are crucial for determining the correct BAH.
It's the same as other military forms: Every military form has its purpose, and lumping them together is a mistake. The DA 5960 is specific to housing allowances and is fundamentally different in both purpose and execution from other forms, such as those for medical benefits or personal records.

Understanding the DA 5960 form is essential for service members to accurately receive their housing allowances and avoid potential financial complications. Dispelling these misconceptions can help streamline the process for everyone involved.

Key takeaways

The DA 5960 form, known as the Authorization to Start, Stop, or Change Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH), is an essential document for members of the United States Army. It is used to request or change housing allowance based on changes in duty status, location, or family situation. Understanding how to properly fill out and use this form can ensure that service members receive the housing benefits to which they are entitled. Here are five key takeaways about completing and utilizing the DA 5960 form:

Accuracy is Crucial: When filling out the DA 5960 form, it's vital to provide accurate information. Inaccuracies can cause delays or result in incorrect BAH payments. Ensure all personal data, duty information, and dependent details are current and correct.
Timely Updates are Important: Service members should submit the DA 5960 form promptly following a change in marital status, dependents, or duty location. Timeliness ensures that BAH adjustments reflect the member’s current situation without delay.
Documentation is Key: Submitting the DA 5960 form often requires accompanying documentation, such as marriage certificates, birth certificates for dependents, or orders for change of station. Keeping these documents organized and readily available simplifies the process.
Understand the Varied Rates: BAH rates vary by geographic location, pay grade, and dependent status. Familiarizing oneself with how these factors influence BAH rates can aid in anticipating changes to allowances and planning accordingly.
Seek Assistance if Needed: Completing government forms can be complex. If questions or uncertainties arise while filling out the DA 5960 form, service members should not hesitate to seek assistance from their personnel or finance office. These resources are in place to help and can provide valuable guidance through the process.

Proper completion and understanding of the DA 5960 form are essential for service members to accurately receive their housing allowance. By paying close attention to details, promptly updating information, providing necessary documentation, understanding how BAH rates are determined, and seeking help when needed, service members can navigate the process with greater ease and confidence.

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