Homepage ➔ DA 5960 Template

DA 5960 Template

Launch DA 5960 Editor
Article Map

The DA 5960 form is a crucial document for service members seeking to establish or modify their basic allowance for housing (BAH) based on dependent status. This form plays a significant role in ensuring that military personnel receive the appropriate financial support needed to accommodate their families while serving. By detailing information about dependents, such as their names, birth dates, and relationship to the service member, the DA 5960 form facilitates a clear assessment of eligibility for housing allowances. Additionally, it requires the service member's signature and may necessitate the inclusion of supporting documentation to verify dependent status. Understanding the nuances of this form is essential for military families navigating the complexities of housing allowances, as it directly impacts their financial well-being and living conditions during active duty. Timely submission of the DA 5960 can lead to more accurate and efficient processing of BAH adjustments, ultimately contributing to the stability and support of military families across the nation.

Key takeaways

The DA 5960 form is an essential document for service members seeking to apply for or modify their Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) based on dependent status. Understanding how to accurately complete and utilize this form can streamline the process and ensure timely benefits.

  • Accurate Information: Ensure all personal details, including Social Security numbers and addresses, are correct to avoid delays in processing.
  • Dependent Verification: Include documentation that verifies your dependent's status, such as marriage certificates or birth certificates, as required.
  • Timely Submission: Submit the form promptly to prevent any interruptions in housing allowance payments. Delays can impact financial stability.
  • Signature Requirement: Ensure that the form is signed by both the service member and the authorized official to validate the request.
  • Review Process: Be prepared for a review process. The appropriate military office will assess the submitted information for accuracy and completeness.

By following these key takeaways, service members can effectively navigate the DA 5960 form process, ensuring they receive the housing benefits they are entitled to.

Documents used along the form

The DA 5960 form is essential for military personnel seeking to apply for or update their Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH). However, several other forms and documents may also be required or useful in conjunction with the DA 5960. Below is a list of these documents, each serving a specific purpose in the process of housing allowance management.

  • DD Form 214: This form provides a summary of a service member's military service. It is often required to establish eligibility for various benefits, including housing allowances.
  • California Residential Lease Agreement: Understanding the https://californiadocsonline.com/residential-lease-agreement-form is crucial for anyone involved in a rental transaction in the state, as it outlines the terms and conditions between a landlord and tenant.
  • DA Form 31: This is a request for leave form. It may be necessary to submit this form if the service member is taking leave that affects their housing situation.
  • DA Form 1506: This form is used to verify prior service for a member of the Army. It can help establish eligibility for certain allowances based on previous military experience.
  • SF 1199A: This is the Direct Deposit Sign-Up Form. Service members may need to complete this to ensure their BAH payments are deposited directly into their bank accounts.
  • AF Form 594: This form is used for a request for dependency or hardship discharge. It may be relevant if a service member's housing allowance is affected by changes in their family situation.
  • VA Form 21-4138: This is a Statement in Support of Claim. It can be used to provide additional information to support a claim for benefits, including housing allowances.

Understanding these forms and their purposes can help streamline the process of applying for or updating the Basic Allowance for Housing. It is important to gather all necessary documentation to ensure a smooth experience.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the DA 5960 form, it is crucial to follow specific guidelines to ensure accuracy and compliance. Here are five essential do's and don'ts to consider:

  • Do read the instructions carefully before starting.
  • Do provide accurate and complete information to avoid delays.
  • Do double-check all entries for errors or omissions.
  • Do sign and date the form where required.
  • Do keep a copy of the completed form for your records.
  • Don't leave any required fields blank.
  • Don't use abbreviations or slang that may confuse the reader.
  • Don't submit the form without reviewing it for accuracy.
  • Don't forget to check for any specific submission guidelines.
  • Don't rely solely on memory; gather all necessary documents beforehand.

Common mistakes

Filling out the DA 5960 form can be a straightforward process, but many people make common mistakes that can lead to delays or complications. One frequent error is not providing complete information. Each section of the form is important, and missing details can result in the application being returned for corrections.

Another common mistake is failing to sign and date the form. A signature is essential to validate the information provided. Without it, the form may be considered incomplete, which can stall the processing time.

Some individuals overlook the importance of using the correct version of the form. The DA 5960 form may have updates or changes, and using an outdated version can cause issues. Always check for the most current form before submitting.

Inaccurate information is another pitfall. Providing incorrect dates, names, or other critical details can lead to confusion and delays. Double-check all entries for accuracy before submitting the form.

People sometimes forget to include necessary supporting documents. The DA 5960 form may require additional paperwork to process your request. Ensure that all required documents are attached to avoid delays.

Lastly, not following the submission guidelines can be problematic. Whether submitting online or via mail, adhering to the specified instructions is crucial. Failing to do so could result in the form being rejected or delayed.

File Characteristics

Fact Name Description
Purpose The DA 5960 form is used to request a waiver of the maximum time allowed for a service member to remain on active duty.
Eligibility Active duty members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard can apply using this form.
Submission Process The completed form must be submitted through the service member's chain of command for review and approval.
Governing Law The form is governed by Title 10 of the United States Code, which outlines the legal framework for military service.
Required Information Service members must provide personal details, the reason for the waiver request, and supporting documentation.
Approval Timeline Processing times may vary, but service members should expect a response within 30 days of submission.

Form Sample

1. Name (Last, First, MI)
2. DOD ID Number 3. Grade
4. Member's Physical Address (Street, City, State, and Zip Code)
AUTHORITY: 37 USC 403, Basic allowance housing; Army Regulation 637-1, Army Military Compensation and Entitlement Policy.
PRINCIPAL PURPOSE: To start, adjust or terminate a Soldier's entitlement to basic allowance for housing (BAH) and to verify a Soldier's
dependency status. For additional information see the System of Records Notice A0600-8-104 APS
http://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2019/07/18/2019-15242/privacy-act-of-1974-system-of-records.
ROUTINE USES:
DISCLOSURE:
PRIVACY ACT STATEMENT
BASIC ALLOWANCE FOR HOUSING (BAH)
AUTHORIZATION AND DEPENDENCY DECLARATION
For use of this form, see AR 637-1. The proponent agency is DCS, G-1.
17. Date
(YYYYMMDD)
5. Duty Location (Unit Location or City, State, and Zip Code)
12. Other Dependent Information (Children and Secondary Dependents). Additional Dependents Will Be Listed On Additional Forms
Voluntary; however, form will not be processed without your DoD ID for pay purposes and nondisclosure may result in
discrepancies with your BAH.
6. Effective Date Of Action (YYYYMMDD)
7. Type Of Action (Select Only One) 8. BAH Type (Select Only One)
9. Marital Status (Select Only One)
10. Spouse's Name (Last, First, MI)
11. Spouse's Physical Address (Street, City, State, and Zip Code)
Has your spouse or former spouse ever served in a
branch of the Uniformed Services? (If Yes, complete
blocks a, b, c & d)
a. Spouse's DOD ID Number
b. Spouse's Branch Of Service
c. Date Spouse Last Entered Service (YYYYMMDD)
d. Date Spouse Last Separated Service (YYYYMMDD)
YES NO
15. Date
(YYYYMMDD)
Start Change Stop Recertify
DivorcedSingle
Married
Legally
Separated
Differential
With
Dependents
Without
Dependents
Widowed
Relationship
Date Of Birth
(YYYYMMDD)
Physical Address
Name
Custody
Physical
Legal
Read and Initial: I understand that a legal separation agreement, court decree, judgment, or order that does not state the dependent support
amount, or absolves me of my dependent support responsibility, does not of itself affect my housing allowance. I further understand that if I am
authorized a housing allowance on behalf of a dependent that I must contribute to my dependent's support in an amount that is not less than
the applicable BAH-DIFF rate.
Read and Initial: I understand that the legal purpose of a housing allowance on behalf of a dependent is to partially reimburse a Service
Member for the expense of providing a private sector residence for the dependents when Government Quarters are not provided. I further
understand that a housing allowance for a dependent is not a bonus merely for the technical status of being married or a parent.
Read and Initial: I understand that I am required to provide adequate support to those dependents on whose behalf I am receiving a housing
allowance and if I fail to provide adequate support, the housing allowance that I received for that dependent will be recouped for nonsupport or
inadequate support periods.
Read and Initial: I understand that if there is a court order or legal separation agreement stating the support amount, I must contribute to the
dependent's support the amount specified therein, but in no case may the support payments be less than the applicable BAH-DIFF rate.
Read and Initial: I certify that I provide or am willing to provide adequate support to the above named dependents.
13. Certification of Dependent Support
I certify ALL information regarding this authorization is correct. I will immediately notify the servicing Finance/Personnel Office of any
changes in the information above, due to divorce, marriage, death, living in government quarters etc., which could affect my BAH entitlement.
To the Internal Revenue Service for tax purposes. To the U.S. Government Accountability Office for statistical management
To the members of Congress for inquiries. To U.S. state courts and various law enforcement agencies by subpoena only.
14. Member's Signature 16. Commander's Signature
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.
DA FORM 5960, JAN 2022
APD AEM v1.01ES
PREVIOUS EDITIONS ARE OBSOLETE.