Da 5118 Template

Guidelines on Filling in Da 5118

Fulfilling the requirements of the DA Form 5118, formally known as the Reassignment Status and Election Statement, necessitates a meticulous approach to ensure accuracy and compliance with the standards laid out by the Department of the Army. This form plays a pivotal role in managing the reassignment processes of enlisted soldiers, making it essential for all involved parties to comprehensively fill out each section. Below are the steps designed to guide individuals through this procedure, ensuring every pertinent detail is accurately captured.

1. Begin with Part I, which is to be completed by the Military Personnel Division/Personnel Service Company. Cross-reference the information with the Personnel Qualification Record (DA Form 2-1) for the soldier in question.
2. In sections A, B, and C of Part I, accurately respond to all questions regarding the soldier's status, ranging from special management command assignments to time in service requirements. For each item, mark "Yes," "No," or "N/A" as applicable. A "Yes" response necessitates a remark explaining the reason.
3. Ensure remarks are detailed and clear in section 35, providing any additional information or noting discrepancies found during the comparison of EDAS Cycle with the DA Form 2-1.
4. The Reassignment Clerk must then sign and date the form in fields 36a and 36b.
5. Continue to Part II, to be handled by the Battalion S1. This portion requires similar careful consideration to the soldier's duty and pending action status, with all questions necessitating a "Yes," "No," or "N/A" selection.
6. Section E’s questions demand equally precise responses, with the Battalion S1 required to sign and date the form after completing this section.
7. In Part III, it is the soldier's turn to provide responses. All questions here, categorized under personal and OCONUS status, must be addressed. The soldier needs to mark the appropriate option and provide remarks for any affirmative answers or special circumstances.
8. The soldier completes this section by signing and dating it in fields 76a and 76b.
9. Finally, address Part IV concerning wartime status. This section requires the soldier to detail any conditions that might require special consideration regarding deployment or reassignment, followed once more by the soldier’s signature and date.

After the DA Form 5118 is fully completed, it should be returned to the respective Battalion S1, as indicated in the instruction sections. The thoroughness applied in filling out this form ensures that the soldier's reassignment process is managed effectively, with all necessary considerations taken into account.

What is the DA Form 5118 used for?

The DA Form 5118, also known as the Reassignment Status and Election Statement, is primarily used within the Army to manage and document the reassignment process of enlisted Soldiers. It ensures that a Soldier's eligibility and special requirements are correctly assessed and recorded before proceeding with specific assignment processing. This can include actions like deletions or deferments, additional service requirements, or other specialized processing necessary for the assignment.

Who fills out the DA Form 5118?

The DA Form 5118 is completed in several parts by different personnel within the Army's structure:

1. The Military Personnel Division/Personnel Service Company is responsible for completing Part I, which deals with initial eligibility and special management command status.
2. Part II is filled out by the Battalion S1, addressing the Soldier's duty status and pending action statuses.
3. The Soldier themselves complete Part III, providing personal status information and electing their reassignment preferences.
4. Lastly, Part IV is also filled out by the Soldier, focusing on wartime status and additional personal considerations.

Is filling out the DA Form 5118 mandatory for all reassignments?

Yes, the disclosure of information on the DA Form 5118 is voluntary, but its completion is crucial for assessing a Soldier's eligibility and readiness for reassignment. Failure to provide the required information may result in unnecessary hardship for the Soldier and their family or could impact the Soldier's reassignment eligibility. The form ensures that all aspects of the reassignment are appropriately managed, considering both the needs of the Army and the individual circumstances of the Soldier.

What happens if a Soldier doesn't disclose the required information on the DA Form 5118?

If a Soldier opts not to disclose the required information on the DA Form 5118, it may lead to several outcomes, including:

• Potential delays in the reassignment process.
• Inability to address special needs or considerations for the Soldier or their family, leading to possible hardship.
• The Soldier might still be reassigned without taking their preferences or special circumstances into account.

What specific information does a Soldier need to provide on the DA Form 5118?

On the DA Form 5118, a Soldier is required to provide a mixture of personal and professional information that includes but is not limited to:

• Basic personal information such as name, SSN, grade, and PMOS.
• Special management, general eligibility, and time in service requirements status.
• Personal status, including retirement status, reassignment restrictions due to sensitive duty assignments, pregnancy, and family considerations.
• Wartime status, such as conscientious objector status, sole surviving son or daughter status, and history of being a prisoner of war or hostage.

Can the DA Form 5118 affect the timeline of a Soldier's reassignment?

Yes, the completion and the specific entries on the DA Form 5118 can impact the timeline of a Soldier's reassignment. Discrepancies, special considerations, or the need for further review of a Soldier's eligibility and readiness can delay the reassignment process. Accurate and complete information allows for a smoother transition by addressing all necessary considerations upfront. Delays can also occur if additional processing, reviews, or approvals are required based on the Soldier's responses or lack thereof.

Where can Soldiers or their commanding officers find assistance for completing the DA Form 5118?

Assistance with completing the DA Form 5118 is available through the Soldier's commanding officer or Personnel Service Battalion. Additionally, the Army's Human Resources Command (HRC) can provide guidance and support. Resources like the Army Regulations (ARs) that govern reassignment processes, specifically AR 600-8-11, offer detailed instructions on completing and handling the form. For more personal or unique questions, legal assistance offices within the military can offer guidance to ensure that the form is completed correctly and all necessary considerations are taken into account.

Filling out government and military forms can be tricky, and the DA Form 5118, which deals with Reassignment Status and Election Statement, is no exception. People often make mistakes when completing this form, and here are ten common ones to watch out for:

1. Not verifying personal information thoroughly: It’s crucial to double-check basics like your name, SSN, and grade, as any mismatch could lead to unnecessary delays.

2. Overlooking the importance of the EDAS Cycle Number: This specific detail is vital for processing your reassignment correctly and should be accurately entered.

3. Skipping sections that apply: Sometimes, there might be a rush to complete the form, leading individuals to miss out on sections relevant to their situation.

4. Incorrectly stating your PMOS, ASI, and Control Language: This information directly impacts your reassignment and must be accurately provided.

5. Failing to indicate special conditions or requirements: Such as pending actions (e.g., Medical Evaluation Board), which could affect your reassignment.

6. Ignoring the instructions for Parts II and III, relevant to Battalion Status and Soldier Status respectively: Overlooking these sections can result in incomplete submissions.

7. Missing signatures and dates: Every section that requires a signature and date must be completed to validate the form.

8. Not disclosing deployment concerns in Part IV - Wartime Status: This could include issues like applying for Conscientious Objector status, which need to be clearly stated.

9. Overlooking family and personal status questions: Especially those related to special family circumstances that might affect assignments, such as the Exceptional Family Member Program.

10. Incomplete Remarks sections: Failing to provide necessary details or explanations in the Remarks sections can lead to confusion or the need for further clarification.

Avoiding these mistakes can significantly streamline the reassignment process. It's all about attention to detail and carefully reviewing each section to ensure accuracy and completeness. This ensures the smooth processing of your reassignment and reduces potential stress and uncertainty.

When processing the DA Form 5118, which pertains to the reassignment status and election statement of soldiers, several other forms and documents may frequently be used in tandem to ensure that all aspects of a soldier’s relocation and assignment are comprehensively managed. These documents complement the DA Form 5118 by capturing specific details about the soldier's personal information, health status, and other relevant factors that affect their assignment. Each plays a crucial role in seamless transition and assignment processes.

• DA Form 2-1: Also known as the Personnel Qualification Record, it provides a detailed history of a soldier's military career, including education, training, and awards. This form helps in comparing qualifications with the requirements of the new assignment.
• DA Form 31: The Request and Authority for Leave form is used when a Soldier needs to take leave before, during, or after the reassignment process. It’s essential for managing leave periods in conjunction with assignments.
• DA Form 4187: Personnel Action form is used for requests such as reclassification, reassignment, extra rations, and name changes. This form supports various personnel actions that might coincide with reassignment.
• DA Form 705: Army Physical Fitness Test Scorecard is used to record a Soldier's physical fitness test results. Fitness levels may impact a soldier's eligibility for certain assignments.
• DA Form 3349: Physical Profile document records any physical limitations a Soldier might have. This ensures assignments comply with medical restrictions.
• DA Form 5960: Authorization to Start, Stop, or Change Basic Allowance for Quarters (BAQ), and/or Variable Housing Allowance (VHA) is used to adjust housing allowances based on reassignment.
• DA Form 5888: Family Member Deployment Screening Sheet is used to assess the family members' readiness for overseas deployment, impacting soldiers' assignment to certain locations.
• DA Form 7246: Exceptional Family Member Program Screening Form is completed for soldiers with family members requiring special medical or educational services, influencing potential assignment locations.
• Medical Evaluation Board (MEB)/Physical Evaluation Board (PEB) proceedings: Documents related to evaluations that determine the fitness of a Soldier for duty, which could affect the types of assignments they are eligible for.

Understanding each of these documents and their relation to the DA Form 5118 is pivotal for legal practitioners and military personnel involved in the administrative processes of soldier reassignment. These forms collectively ensure that all necessary considerations, including personal circumstances, health status, and professional qualifications, are accurately documented and assessed during the reassignment process.

• DD Form 93, Record of Emergency Data: Like the DA Form 5118, it is used to document critical information for military personnel, focusing on what should be done in an emergency. Both forms collect essential data that impacts the service member and their family's well-being.

• DA Form 4187, Personnel Action: This form shares similarities with the DA Form 5118 by allowing Army personnel to request a variety of personnel actions, including reassignments, similar to the reassignment and election statement purposes of the DA 5118.

• DA Form 31, Request and Authority for Leave: Though primarily for leave requests, it's similar to the DA 5118 in its use for personnel management and the processing of Soldiers' personal affairs and movements.

• DA Form 5434, Sponsorship Program Counseling and Information Sheet: Similar to the DA Form 5118, it is used when Soldiers are reassigned, offering them information and counseling about their new location, focusing on the integration aspect of reassignments.

• DA Form 5960, Authorization to Start, Stop, or Change Basic Allowance for Quarters (BAQ), and/or Variable Housing Allowance (VHA): This form is related to the DA 5118 in the context of changes in assignment or duty location, affecting the allowances soldiers receive.

• DD Form 1172, Application for Identification Card/DEERS Enrollment: While it is for ID and DEERS enrollment, it has parallels with DA Form 5118, as changes in duty status or location can necessitate updates or reissuance of ID cards for Soldiers and their families.

• DD Form 200, Financial Liability Investigation of Property Loss: Although focused on property loss, the need for this form can arise from situations like reassignments or changes in duty status, which are covered under the process of DA Form 5118.

• DA Form 705, Army Physical Fitness Test Scorecard: The correlation here is indirect; fitness levels can impact a soldier's eligibility for certain assignments or special duties, which could be documented in parts of the DA Form 5118 that address special management command status and general eligibility.

• DA Form 3349, Physical Profile: This form closely relates to the DA Form 5118 as it can directly influence a Soldier’s reassignment eligibility, particularly in the Physical Status and Medical Readiness sections.

• DA Form 2823, Sworn Statement: Often used in legal and administrative procedures, it is similar in function to the DA Form 5118 when documenting official statements that might relate to a Soldier's status, actions, or decisions affecting reassignment and duty status.

When completing the DA Form 5118, "Reassignment Status and Election Statement," individuals should follow certain guidelines to ensure the form is filled out accurately and thoroughly. Below are things to do and avoid:

Do:
• Review the Instructions: Each section of the form includes detailed instructions. These should be read carefully to understand what information is required.
• Use the Correct Information: Ensure that the details such as name, SSN, grade, and unit information are accurate to avoid any processing delays.
• Answer All Applicable Questions: Each question must be answered truthfully. If a question does not apply, make sure to mark the N/A block.
• Provide Detailed Remarks When Necessary: If any question requires further explanation, use the remarks section to provide additional information.
• Sign and Date: Don’t forget to sign and date the form where required. This is a crucial step for the form’s validity.
• Check for Administrative Errors: Before submitting, review the form to ensure there are no mistakes or omissions.
• Consult with a Superior or HR Specialist: If there are any uncertainties or specific questions, it's wise to consult with a superior or an HR specialist before submission.

Don't:
• Skip Sections: Do not leave any sections blank without indicating that it's not applicable. Incomplete information can result in processing delays.
• Use Pencil: Fill out the form in ink or digitally. Pencil marks can smudge or be erased, making the form illegible.
• Guess on Dates or Information: If unsure about specific details, verify them before completing the form to ensure accuracy.
• Ignore the Requirement for Remarks: If a section requires additional information or clarification, failing to provide remarks can lead to misunderstandings or processing holds.
• Forget to Check Mandatory Fields: Some fields are mandatory and must be filled. Overlooking these can result in an incomplete submission.
• Submit Without Reviewing: Always review the entire form before submission to catch any errors or missing information.
• Underestimate the Importance of Accurate Information: Providing inaccurate or outdated information can have significant implications on the reassignment process.

When it comes to military paperwork, the DA Form 5118, known as the Reassignment Status and Election Statement, often stirs up a cloud of confusion. Let’s dispel some common misconceptions surrounding this document, ensuring that our military personnel are well-informed and prepared.

• Myth 1: The DA Form 5118 is only for officers.
  Actually, this form is specifically designed for enlisted soldiers. It plays a crucial role in managing their reassignment process within the military structure, guiding them through various steps and clarifying their eligibility and specific needs for the reassignment.

• Myth 2: Completing the DA Form 5118 is optional.
  Contrary to what some might think, filling out this form is not a matter of choice. Disclosure of the requested information is voluntary, but failing to provide it can lead to unnecessary hardships for the soldier and their family, affecting the reassignment process significantly.

• Myth 3: The form is complicated and requires legal assistance to complete.
  While it might seem daunting at first glance, the DA Form 5118 is structured to be filled out by the individual soldier with instructions for each part. It’s user-friendly, designed to gather essential information without requiring specialized legal knowledge.

• Myth 4: The form covers only the current assignment details.
  This document is comprehensive, outlining not just the current assignment details but also serving as a platform for soldiers to declare any personal status changes, preferences, or restrictions that might impact their reassignment, including family situations and overseas assignments.

• Myth 5: Soldiers don’t need to disclose medical conditions on the DA Form 5118.
  On the contrary, one of the primary purposes of this form is to ensure that reassignments do not conflict with a soldier’s medical readiness or worldwide deployability. Accurately disclosing medical conditions is essential for the safety and effectiveness of the soldier and their unit.

• Myth 6: Once submitted, the DA Form 5118 cannot be updated or changed.
  Life circumstances can change unexpectedly, and the military understands this. If a significant change occurs after you’ve submitted your form, it’s important to communicate this with your unit’s personnel office to update your form and ensure your reassignment process accurately reflects your current situation.

• Myth 7: The DA Form 5118 is solely for domestic reassignments.
  This form is pivotal for both CONUS (within the continental United States) and OCONUS (outside the continental United States) reassignments. It ensures that every aspect of a soldier's potential reassignment, including overseas duty, is carefully considered and planned.

Dispelling these myths clears up confusion and helps ensure soldiers are well-prepared for their reassignment journey. Understanding the intentions and requirements of DA Form 5118 empowers our military personnel, enabling a smoother transition for themselves and their families.

The DA Form 5118, known as the "Reassignment Status and Election Statement," is a crucial document for soldiers undergoing reassignment within the U.S. Army. Below are key takeaways about filling out and using this form effectively:

• Understand the form's purpose: It's designed for initial screening to determine a soldier's eligibility for reassignment and Special procedures required.
• Privacy is paramount: The Privacy Act Statement explains the authority for collecting personal details, emphasizing voluntary disclosure but highlighting consequences for non-disclosure.
• Sections matter: The form is divided into several parts, each addressing different aspects of reassignment, from Personal data to Wartime Status.
• Accuracy is key: Ensure all personal information, such as SSN, grade, PMOS, and current unit, is accurate to avoid processing delays.
• Check eligibility carefully: Questions in Sections A, B, and C help determine general, special management, and time service eligibility for reassignment.
• Highlight special conditions: Declare any unique conditions that might affect reassignment, such as pending actions, duty status, or personal status issues in the applicable sections.
• Signature requirements: Various sections of the form require signatures from the reassignment clerk, battalion commander, and the soldier, validating the information provided.
• Explain discrepancies: Use the "Remarks" sections effectively to provide additional information or clarify discrepancies that might influence reassignment decisions.
• Understand the implications of your responses: Your answers can significantly affect the reassignment process, including possibilities for deferment or additional processing.
• Ensure thorough review: Before submission, review the entire form to ensure completeness and correct any errors to streamline the reassignment process.

Filling out the DA Form 5118 meticulously and thoughtfully can impact a soldier's transition during reassignments, thereby affecting their military career trajectory. As such, it is essential to approach this task with the seriousness and attention to detail it warrants.