The DA 5960 form, often referred to as the Authorization to Start, Stop, or Change Basic Allowance for Quarters (BAQ), and Variable Housing Allowance (VHA), is a crucial document for U.S. military personnel. It serves the purpose of modifying housing and related benefits, ensuring that service members receive the allowances to which they are entitled based on their current circumstances. For detailed guidance on how to accurately complete and submit this form, click the button below.
At the heart of military personnel's logistical paperwork is the DA 5960 form, a crucial document that plays a pivotal role in managing allowances related to housing and relocation. This form serves as a formal request and authorization for Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH), ensuring that servicemembers are adequately compensated for their living arrangements, particularly when government quarters are not provided. It encapsulates detailed information, including personal and dependent data, current living situation, and specific requests for allowance adjustments, making it an integral part of the financial readiness toolkit for military families. Its completion is not just a bureaucratic step but a critical measure to secure essential housing benefits, reflecting the broader commitment to supporting the well-being of those who serve. As such, understanding the nuances of the DA 5960 form is imperative for service members navigating the complexity of military benefits, offering a clear pathway to securing the housing allowances they are entitled to, underlining its significance in the broader spectrum of military life administration.
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
Once you've gathered all the required information, filling out the DA 5960 form becomes a straightforward process. This form is crucial in ensuring personnel receive the appropriate allowances, making accuracy a priority. The steps provided here are designed to guide you through each section efficiently. Remember, each detail contributes to the successful processing of your entitlements. Let's walk through the procedure.
After completing these steps, your form will undergo review by the approving authority. This process ensures that all information is correct and complies with the relevant regulations. It's important to follow up with your personnel office if you have any questions or if you need to provide additional documentation. Efficient communication can help expedite the approval process, bringing you closer to receiving your entitlements.
The DA 5960 form, also known as the Authorization to Start, Stop, or Change Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH), is a document used by the United States Army. Service members use this form to request changes to their housing allowance. This includes starting, stopping, or adjusting the amount they receive based on changes in their life circumstances, such as marriage, divorce, or having a child.
Any active duty or reserve member of the U.S. Army who experiences a change in their housing situation or family status that affects their housing allowance must complete a DA 5960 form. This ensures their BAH reflects their current needs accurately.
To fill out the DA 5960 form properly, you'll need:
Once filled, you must submit the DA 5960 form through your unit's administrative office. They will process your request and forward it to the appropriate financial office for the adjustment of your BAH. Be sure to keep a copy for your records.
Yes, the DA 5960 form can be filled out electronically using PDF editing software. Electronically signed versions are also accepted, making the submission process faster and more efficient. Ensure you follow your unit's specific guidelines for electronic submissions.
Common mistakes include:
Processing times can vary based on the volume of requests and the efficiency of your administrative unit. Typically, you can expect the form to be processed within 30 days. Keep in touch with your unit's administrative staff to check the status of your form.
If your DA 5960 form is denied, you will receive a notification explaining the reason for denial. You can request further clarification and, if applicable, submit a revised form addressing the reasons for the initial denial.
If circumstances change after you've submitted a DA 5960 form, you can submit a new form reflecting the updated information. It's essential to keep your BAH information current to ensure you receive the correct allowance.
For more detailed information and to download the latest version of the DA 5960 form, visit the official website of the United States Army or contact your unit's administrative office. They can provide guidance and answer any questions you may have about the form or the submission process.
Not Verifying Personal Information: One common mistake is neglecting to double-check personal information, such as full name, rank, and service number. This oversight can lead to processing delays or even form rejection.
Incorrect Dependency Information: Failing to accurately report dependency status can result in receiving an incorrect allowance amount. It's essential to correctly identify all dependents to ensure proper BAH calculation.
Omitting Signature and Date: Another frequent error is forgetting to sign and date the form. An unsigned or undated form is considered incomplete and will not be processed until this information is provided.
Misunderstanding the Types of BAH: Not understanding the difference between BAH types, such as BAH Partial, BAH With Dependents, and BAH Without Dependents, can lead to incorrect selections on the form.
Incorrect Effective Dates: Often, individuals will enter the wrong effective date for their BAH request. It is crucial to input the correct date as it affects when the allowance begins.
Skipping Required Fields: Sometimes, individuals skip fields they're unsure about instead of seeking clarification. Leaving sections incomplete can result in delays or the need to re-submit the form.
To avoid these mistakes:
By following these guidelines, individuals can improve the accuracy of their DA 5960 submissions and facilitate a smoother processing experience.
When handling matters related to the DA 5960 form, often utilized by military personnel for Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) purposes, several other documents frequently accompany this important form. These documents play crucial roles in ensuring accurate information is provided, which in turn, helps in securing the appropriate housing allowances. Let's delve into four such documents that are commonly paired with the DA 5960 form to facilitate a smoother processing experience.
Together, these documents complement the DA 5960 form, furnishing a comprehensive picture of the service member's situation for housing allowance determination. It is imperative for service members to gather and submit these documents promptly to ensure their BAH is processed efficiently and accurately reflects their current living arrangements and dependency status. Understanding and preparing these documents well ahead of time can significantly streamline the process, making it less daunting for those involved.
DD Form 1351-2: This form, used for travel voucher submissions within the Department of Defense, is similar to the DA 5960 form. Both are integral to ensuring that personnel are reimbursed for official expenses, though the DA 5960 specifically deals with housing allowances, while the DD 1351-2 focuses on travel reimbursements.
VA Form 26-1880: Used by veterans to apply for a Certificate of Eligibility for home loans, this form shares similarities with the DA 5960 in its purpose of facilitating housing benefits. However, the VA form specifically aids in obtaining veteran home loan guarantees rather than adjusting housing allowances.
IRS Form W-4: The W-4 form, used by employees to determine tax withholdings, shares a functional similarity with the DA 5960. Both forms assist in financial planning and adjustments based on personal and family situations. The DA 5960 specifically helps in adjusting housing allowances, while the W-4 adjusts tax withholdings.
HUD-1 Settlement Statement: Used in real estate transactions, this document outlines the final financial terms and conditions. Similar to the DA 5960, it deals with housing-related finances, but focuses on the specifics of a real estate transaction rather than military housing allowances.
LES (Leave and Earnings Statement): This military pay statement outlines all earnings, deductions, and allowances for service members, including housing allowances that are determined by forms like the DA 5960. The key similarity lies in the presentation of financial entitlements and deductions relevant to military personnel.
DD Form 114: This form, a military paycheck, presents the results of what forms like the DA 5960 aim to adjust – the basic allowance for housing (BAH). It directly reflects changes in personal circumstances that might affect housing allowances, similar to the DA 5960's purpose.
BahForm 2166-8 (NCO Evaluation Report): This evaluation form affects military careers and, indirectly, housing allowances by potentially qualifying personnel for different levels of BAH. It is similar to the DA 5960, which directly adjusts housing allowances based on family status and other criteria.
IRS Form 8822: Used for reporting a change of address to the Internal Revenue Service, this form is crucial for ensuring correct communication and tax documentation delivery. Like the DA 5960, it deals with the effects of personal life changes but in the context of tax documentation rather than military housing allowances.
Application for Uniformed Services Identification Card DEERS Enrollment (DD Form 1172-2): This form is used for enrolling family members in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) and for ID card issuance. It’s similar to the DA 5960 in that it directly impacts military families and their entitlements, including housing allowances, by ensuring that family member statuses are correctly recorded.
When filling out the DA 5960 form, attention to detail is crucial. This document is important for managing housing allowances, and making mistakes can lead to delays or incorrect payments. Below are tips to ensure the process is as smooth as possible. Following these guidelines will help in submitting a correctly completed form.
Things You Should Do
Things You Shouldn't Do
The DA 5960 form, often associated with Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) matters, is surrounded by misconceptions. Clarity about this document is essential for those seeking to understand its implications fully. Below are five common misconceptions explained.
Only for Active Duty Members: A prevalent misconception is that the DA 5960 form is exclusively for active-duty members. In reality, it is also utilized by reservists and National Guard members when they are activated for more than 30 days. This broader applicability ensures that various service members can receive appropriate housing allowances.
Single Service Members Do Not Qualify: Another misunderstanding is the belief that DA 5960 is only for those with dependents. Single service members, in fact, do qualify and should complete the form to receive their entitled housing allowance, depending on their specific circumstances and duty station.
Permanent Change of Station (PCS) Automatically Updates BAH: Some think that a PCS automatically updates BAH entitlements. However, service members must submit a new DA 5960 form whenever they experience a PCS to ensure that their housing allowance reflects their current duty station and living situation accurately.
No Need to Update for Family Changes: A critical misconception is that once filled, there's no need to update the DA 5960 for changes in family status such as marriage, divorce, or having children. These life events can significantly impact housing allowance entitlements, necessitating an update to the form to reflect current family composition.
It’s Only About Housing Allowance: While the DA 5960 is predominantly used for determining BAH rates, it’s misunderstood to be solely about housing. The form also plays a role in other allowances and entitlements related to housing and living conditions, demonstrating its broader significance in service members’ financial and logistical planning.
Filling out and using the DA 5960 form, often required for Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) adjustments within the U.S. Armed Forces, carries significant implications for service members and their families. Understanding the form's purpose, how to fill it out correctly, and its broader impacts can help ensure that personnel receive the appropriate housing benefits. Here are seven key takeaways about this crucial process.
Navigating the DA 5960 form accurately and efficiently ensures that service members and their families are supported with the correct housing allowances. This not only contributes to the financial stability of military families but also honors the commitment service members make to their country.
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