The DA 5960 form, also known as the Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) form, is a crucial document used by members of the United States Army to apply for housing allowances. This form is necessary for soldiers seeking financial assistance with their housing circumstances, whether they live on or off military installations. For detailed guidance on how to fill out this form accurately, click the button below.
In the intricate world of military administration, managing personal affairs with precision is paramount, particularly when it comes to financial matters. One pivotal document serving this purpose within the United States Army is the DA 5960 form, often involved in the realm of Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH). This form serves a critical function by capturing essential information used to determine eligibility and the correct rate for BAH, a type of compensation provided to military personnel to afford housing in the civilian market. Its utilization stretches across various circumstances, from changes in marital status to adjustments in dependent status or even relocation. The importance of accurately completing the DA 5960 cannot be overstated, as it directly affects the personal finances of army personnel. Moreover, the process surrounding the form underscores the intersection of administration and individual well-being within the military, revealing how bureaucratic procedures are intimately linked to the livelihoods of those serving. As such, understanding the DA 5960 form’s components, its completion process, and the implications of the information provided is essential for anyone navigating this aspect of military life.
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).
1.
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,
2.
SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER
3.
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.
4.
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
5.
DUTY LOCATION (Include Station, Name, City, State, and Zip Code)
6. DATE/ACTION
7.
BAQ TYPE
(YYYYMMDD)
WITH DEPENDENTS
PARTIAL
WITHOUT DEPENDENTS
8.
MARITAL/DEPENDENCY STATUS
9.
QUARTERS ASSIGNMENT/AVAILABILITY
a.
SINGLE
b. MARRIED
c. DIVORCED (see
ADEQUATE
b.
INADEQUATE
(see blocks (1), (2) & (3))
blocks (1), (2) & (3))
(see block (1))
(see blocks (1), (2) & (4))
d.
LEGALLY SEPARATED
e.
DEPENDENT CHILD
c.
TRANSIENT
NOT AVAILABLE
(see blocks (4), (5) & (6))
(see block (3))
(1)
Spouse/Former
(2)
(3)
Date of Marriage,
QUARTERS
(2) FAIR RENTAL
Spouse SSN
Spouse Duty Station
Divorce/Separation
NO.
VALUE $
(4)
Child in
Member
Spouse
Former Spouse
Other
FROM:
TO:
Custody of:
(5)
If you check "OTHER" above, prepare DD Form 137 to establish dependency.
MEMBER ELECTION
COMMANDER
(Member
in
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:
Dependent
Sharer/Lease Information
Address Information
Mortgage (PITI)
or Rent
Rental/Residential Address:
Landlord's Name and Address:
Insurance
Effective Date:
Expiration Date:
Landlord's Phone No.
TOTALS
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
BASIC ALLOWANCE FOR QUARTERS
(BAQ),
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).
Social Security Administration and VA, GAO, members
of Congress; State and local government; US and State
FAIR RENTAL
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
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
Filling out the DA 5960 form is a crucial step for military members who are seeking to initiate or change Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) based on their living situation. This form is used to verify eligibility for various types of BAH, such as when relocating, changes in dependency status, or when off-base housing is required. Proper completion ensures the military member receives the correct housing allowance, which is a significant component of their benefits. The following steps are designed to guide individuals through the process of filling out the DA 5960 form accurately.
After completing the DA 5960 form, it should be submitted to your unit's personnel or finance office for processing. They will review the form, ensure compliance with the applicable regulations, and process your BAH claim. Remember, timely and accurate submission is key to receiving your housing allowance adjustments without delay.
What is a DA 5960 form, and who needs to complete it?
The DA 5960 form is a document used by members of the U.S. Army to request authorization for Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH). It's required for soldiers who are applying for BAH based on their dependency status, whether due to marriage, having children, or other dependents. If a soldier's living situation changes in any way that affects their previous BAH status, they must complete and submit a new DA 5960 form.
How does one fill out the DA 5960 form?
Filling out the DA 5960 form involves providing personal information such as name, rank, and social security number, as well as detailed information about dependents. You must also include your current duty station, housing status, and the type of housing for which you are applying, whether off-post or government quarters. Accurately listing all requested details about any dependents is crucial. After completing the form, it must be signed and dated, then submitted to your Human Resources (HR) officer for processing.
Where can one find a DA 5960 form?
DA 5960 forms are available through your unit's administrative office or HR department. They can also be downloaded from the U.S. Army Human Resources Command (HRC) website. It is important to ensure you are using the most current version of the form to avoid any processing delays.
What are the common mistakes to avoid when filling out a DA 5960?
Common mistakes include not providing complete or accurate information about dependents, forgetting to sign and date the form, or using an outdated version of the form. Additionally, failing to submit the form to the correct department or not consulting with an HR officer for guidance can result in delays. Always double-check the form for accuracy and completeness before submission.
When individuals fill out the DA 5960 form, a document used by the Department of the Army to authorize basic allowance for housing (BAH), several common errors can occur. These mistakes can delay the processing of the form or result in incorrect allowance determinations. It is crucial for service members to approach this form with careful attention to detail to ensure accuracy and completeness.
Failing to verify personal information for accuracy, such as name, social security number, and service number, can lead to delays or the misassignment of benefits.
Incorrect dependency information is a frequent oversight. Service members must accurately list all dependents to ensure proper allowance computation.
Omitting signatures and dates at the required sections of the form. Each section that requires a signature or date validates the form's information and its timeliness; missing signatures can invalidate the form.
Not updating information after significant life events, such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child, can result in receiving an incorrect allowance amount.
Service members sometimes mistakenly select the wrong entitlement, which complicates the processing of their form. It’s imperative to carefully review the entitlement options.
Overlooking the necessity to attach supporting documentation such as marriage certificates, divorce decrees, or birth certificates for dependents. This evidence is crucial for verifying the accuracy of the information provided.
Inputting incorrect housing information, such as an inaccurate address or housing status, could lead to receiving the wrong BAH rate.
Illegible handwriting is a common issue that can delay the processing of the form. It is recommended to fill out the form electronically or ensure clear and legible handwriting if filled out manually.
Failure to indicate changes in duty location as these changes can affect the BAH rate eligibility. It’s essential to update the form accordingly to reflect the current duty station.
Assuming that the submission of the DA 5960 form automatically updates all military records. Service members should ensure that all relevant military records are updated separately as necessary.
In summary, individuals filling out the DA 5960 form must pay close attention to the details required on the form, ensure all sections are completed accurately, and provide necessary documentation to avoid these common pitfalls. Being meticulous and thorough can expedite the processing of the form and help secure the correct housing allowance.
In the world of managing personnel and ensuring everything is accounted for, the DA 5960 form plays a critical role, particularly for those in the armed services. This form, used for authorizing basic allowance for housing (BAH), often doesn't stand alone. To ensure comprehensive and accurate processing, a suite of additional forms and documents usually accompany it. Here’s a list of some key forms and documents frequently used alongside the DA 5960 form, each serving a unique purpose in the broader picture of personnel management.
Together, these documents seamlessly integrate to paint a full picture of a service member’s personal and professional status, directly affecting their entitlements and benefits. While the DA 5960 form is pivotal, its effectiveness is significantly enhanced by the support and verification provided through these additional forms and documents. Processing these documents with accuracy and attention to detail ensures service members are correctly compensated for their dedicated service.
DD Form 1351-2 (Travel Voucher or Subvoucher) - Both the DA 5960 and the DD Form 1351-2 are used by members of the armed forces. While the DA 5960 is primarily for authorizing basic allowance for housing, the DD Form 1351-2 is used for reimbursing travel expenses. Both require detailed personal information and calculations based on the member's situation.
VA Form 26-1880 (Request for Certificate of Eligibility for VA Home Loan Benefits) - Similar to the DA 5960, the VA Form 26-1880 is used by veterans or military members. This form is essential for those looking to take advantage of VA home loan benefits. They both collect personal and housing information pertinent to the service member’s housing benefits.
DD Form 93 (Record of Emergency Data) - The DA 5960 and the DD Form 93 are forms used within the Department of Defense. While the DA 5960 deals with housing allowances, DD Form 93 is used to record vital information for the notification of next of kin in the event of an emergency; they both gather essential personal information for service members’ records.
IRS Form W-4 (Employee's Withholding Certificate) - Though IRS Form W-4 is a tax document, and DA 5960 is related to military housing allowances, they share the commonality of adjusting financial considerations based on family or dependent status. Both are used to update personal circumstances that affect financial entitlements.
DA Form 31 (Request and Authority for Leave) - This form, like the DA 5960, is utilized by Army personnel. DA Form 31 is for soldiers requesting leave, while DA 5960 relates to housing allowances. Each form requires personal and military detail to process and grant the soldier's request effectively.
HUD-1 Settlement Statement - Similar to the DA 5960, the HUD-1 Settlement Statement is used in the housing sector, specifically for real estate transactions detailing the costs to the buyer and seller. Both documents deal with housing and financial transactions, though in markedly different contexts.
DD Form 1172 (Application for Identification Card/DEERS Enrollment) - The DA 5960 and the DD Form 1172 serve military families by ensuring their access to benefits. DA 5960 assists in securing housing allowances, while DD Form 1172 ensures family members are enrolled in DEERS for their entitlements, including healthcare.
DA Form 2823 (Sworn Statement) - While DA Form 2823 is used to officially document statements and testimonies within the Army, it shares with DA 5960 the need for accurate, truthful information. Both forms are integral within their respective processes, requiring detailed and precise inputs from the service member.
Filling out the DA 5960 form, crucial for those in the service to request Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH), involves careful attention to detail. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or new to military paperwork, the following dos and don'ts should guide you in completing the form correctly and efficiently.
By following these guidelines, service members can streamline the process of applying for BAH, ensuring their submissions are clear, correct, and timely. While the paperwork might seem daunting at first, a thoughtful and careful approach can make all the difference.
The DA 5960 form, also known as the Authorization to Start, Stop, or Change Basic Allowance for Quarters (BAQ), and Variable Housing Allowance (VHA), is surrounded by misconceptions. It's crucial for service members and their families to have the right information. Let's clarify some common misconceptions:
It's only for married service members: This is incorrect. The DA 5960 form is used by all service members who are entitled to Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH), including single service members under certain conditions.
It doesn't need to be updated: Service members must update their DA 5960 form whenever there is a change in dependency status, such as marriage, divorce, or having a child, to ensure that their BAH is properly calculated.
Only the service member can fill it out: While it's true that the service member is responsible for the accuracy of the information, it may be filled out with the assistance of a personnel or finance officer to ensure it's completed correctly.
You don't need to submit it if you live in government housing: Even if living in government housing, service members need to submit a DA 5960 form to document their housing status, which can affect other entitlements.
Approval is automatic: Submission of the DA 5960 does not guarantee approval. The form must be reviewed and approved by the appropriate authority, which can deny the allowance based on certain conditions.
It's a one-time form: The DA 5960 needs to be completed and possibly resubmitted upon any change in housing or dependency status, not just at the beginning of service or when initially requesting BAH.
It has no impact on other allowances: Incorrect information or failures in the submission of DA 5960 can affect eligibility for other allowances, reflecting the interconnected nature of military benefits.
Errors are easily rectified: While errors can be corrected, they often require considerable paperwork and time to resolve. Accurate completion initially is crucial to avoid delays in entitlements.
Electronic submissions are instant: Even though electronic submission is faster than paper, processing times can vary and are not immediate. Factors such as time of year and system issues can affect processing times.
Understanding the ins and outs of the DA 5960 form can significantly impact a service member's housing allowance and overall benefits. Clearing up these misconceptions is vital for accurate and timely processing of entitlements.
The DA 5960 form, also known as the Authorization to Start, Stop, or Change Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH), is a critical document for service members in the United States armed forces. It serves as a formal request to adjust housing allowances based on changes in their living situation, marital status, or dependent status. Understanding how to properly fill out and utilize this form is crucial for ensuring that service members receive the correct allowance to which they are entitled. Here are four key takeaways regarding the DA 5960 form:
Proper completion and submission of the DA 5960 form play a critical role in the financial well-being of service members and their families. Understanding these key aspects ensures that individuals are equipped to navigate the process efficiently and accurately. Always consult with a personnel officer or legal advisor if there are questions or concerns about how to fill out the form or about housing entitlements.
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