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Fill a Valid 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 critical document for managing housing allowances for service members. This form facilitates adjustments to allowances based on changes in a service member's life, such as marriage, relocation, or changes in dependent status. For detailed instructions and to ensure accurate completion of your DA 5960 form, click the button below.

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Understanding the various forms and documents required by the military can often seem overwhelming for service members and their families. Among these, the DA 5960 form holds a crucial place, primarily because it deals with an aspect of service that directly impacts the lives of service members on a personal level: housing allowances. This form, though succinct, encompasses significant information that enables the Department of the Army to accurately provide Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) to entitled personnel. It is not just a form but a gateway for soldiers to ensure their loved ones are comfortably accommodated, aligning financial support with the realities of military life which often involves frequent relocations and adjustments. With the right guidance, completing the DA 5960 can be straightforward, ensuring that service members receive the benefits they are entitled to, based on their marital status, dependents, and geographical location of duty. Addressing its complexities, however, requires a thorough overview – not just of the form itself but also of the surrounding processes and regulations that determine eligibility and entitlement, ensuring every soldier can secure housing stability for their families.

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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

Click for PDF Form

File Characteristics

Fact	Detail
Name of Form	DA Form 5960
Purpose	Used by the Department of the Army for authorizing basic allowance for housing (BAH), and to start, stop, or change Basic Allowance for Quarters (BAQ) and/or Variable Housing Allowance (VHA).
Used By	Members of the Army to document entitlements for housing and related allowances.
Key Sections	Includes sections for personal information, type of action required (start, stop, change), and certification by the service member and approving authority.
Filing Requirement	Must be filed by Army personnel when there are changes to their housing status, marital status, or dependent status that affect their qualification for housing allowances.
Governing Law(s)	Federal law governs the authorization and administration of BAH and other military housing allowances. Specific guidelines and rates are determined annually by the Department of Defense.
Revision Date	The most recent version of the form should always be used. Service members should check with their personnel office for the latest revision.

Steps to Writing DA 5960

Filling out the DA Form 5960 requires attention to detail and accurate information regarding the Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH). This form is used by service members to apply for BAH, document any changes in dependency status, or update other relevant housing information. The process involves providing personal and family member details, as well as ensuring the information matches current records and needs. The following steps outline how to complete the form comprehensively.

Start by entering your full name, grade, and social security number in the designated sections at the top of the form.
Check the appropriate box to indicate the action you are requesting (start, stop, or change of BAH).
Fill out the section on your dependency status. This includes selecting whether you have dependents and, if so, listing their information such as name, relationship, and date of birth.
If you are applying due to a change in marital status, specify the effective date of marriage, divorce, or death of a spouse.
Provide details about your current and future duty stations, including the addresses and the effective date of the assignment.
Include information about any government quarters you or your dependents are occupying or have applied for.
For service members with dual military marriage, include your spouse’s service information, such as name, rank, and service branch.
Sign and date the form in the designated area at the bottom. Your signature certifies that the information provided is accurate and truthful.
Submit the completed DA Form 5960 to your servicing personnel office or follow the submission instructions provided by your unit or installation.

It is crucial that the form is completed accurately and submitted per the guidelines provided by your servicing personnel office or command instructions. Misrepresenting information on this form can lead to disciplinary action or administrative consequences. If you have questions or require clarification while filling out the form, it's advisable to consult with your personnel office or a legal advisor.

Important Details 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 military. It serves an essential function by authorizing adjustments to housing allowances. These allowances are crucial for service members, especially those with dependents or those experiencing changes in their living situation.

Who needs to fill out the DA 5960 form?

Any active military service member looking to make changes to their housing allowance must fill out the DA 5960 form. This includes changes due to relocation, marriage, divorce, or any changes in dependency status. Completing this form accurately ensures that service members receive the appropriate allowances for their living situation.

How can I obtain a DA 5960 form?

The DA 5960 form is readily available through several sources. Service members can obtain it from their unit’s administrative office, the base personnel office, or download it from the official website of the U.S. Army. Ensuring you have the most current version of the form is critical for processing your request efficiently.

What information do I need to provide on the DA 5960 form?

When completing the DA 5960 form, you'll need to provide detailed information about your housing situation and dependency status. This includes your personal identification details, military rank, and current assignment. Additionally, details about your dependents, such as their names and relationship to you, are required. Accurate and up-to-date information is crucial for the correct processing of your housing allowance adjustments.

How do I submit the completed DA 5960 form?

Upon completing the DA 5960 form, it should be submitted through your chain of command for approval. The process often involves review and endorsement by your immediate supervisor or unit commander before it reaches the finance office. It's advisable to keep a copy of the form for your records and follow up to ensure it has been processed correctly.

What happens after I submit the DA 5960 form?

After submission, the DA 5960 form goes through a review and approval process. This process typically involves verification of the information provided, ensuring compliance with military housing allowance regulations. Once approved, the finance office will adjust your housing allowance as requested. Expect a period of processing, after which the changes will reflect in your pay. It's important to follow up if you do not see the adjustments within a reasonable timeframe.

Common mistakes

One common mistake individuals often make when filling out the DA 5960 form is neglecting to review the accuracy of their personal information. This includes simple errors in names, social security numbers, or dates. Such oversights can lead to significant delays in processing. Ensuring every piece of information matches official documents is crucial for a smooth submission process.

Another area where errors frequently occur is in the section requiring financial details. Applicants sometimes enter incorrect pay grades or service years, impacting the calculation of entitlements. It's essential to double-check these figures against official service records to prevent any discrepancies that could affect benefit eligibility.

Many also struggle with properly understanding the purpose of each section, leading to incomplete or irrelevant answers. For instance, the section dedicated to dependents often sees individuals either omitting necessary details or including dependents that do not qualify under the guidelines. Familiarizing oneself with the form's instructions can significantly mitigate these mistakes.

Failing to obtain the required signatures is another common oversight. Each DA 5960 form must be endorsed by the appropriate authority, yet a surprising number of submissions lack these crucial signatures. This oversight can void the entire request, necessitating a complete redo of the process.

Last but not least, individuals often submit their DA 5960 forms without the necessary documentation to support their claims. For changes in dependency status or requests for special allowances, supporting documents are not just helpful but required. Omitting these can result in automatic rejection or requests for additional information, delaying the approval process.

Documents used along the form

Completing the DA 5960 form, an essential document for military personnel seeking Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH), often requires several other forms and documents to ensure the process is thorough and accurate. These additional documents play critical roles, from verifying relationships to confirming eligibility and residence details. Understanding each of these documents will help streamline the application process, providing a smoother path to obtaining housing allowances and other benefits.

DD Form 1172-2: This form is used to apply for and renew military identification cards for dependents. It is crucial for verifying the eligibility of family members for military benefits, directly impacting the BAH calculations.
DD Form 93: The Record of Emergency Data form is essential for all military personnel. It provides contact information and designation of beneficiaries for various benefits, including housing allowances, in case of the service member's death.
Marriage Certificate: To access housing benefits for a spouse, a copy of the marriage certificate is often required. This document verifies the legal marital status of the service member, a necessary step for applying for joint housing or additional allowances.
Birth Certificates for Dependents: Similar to the marriage certificate, birth certificates for any children or dependents are needed to prove their eligibility for housing allowances and to calculate the accurate rate of BAH based on family size.
PCS (Permanent Change of Station) Orders: These orders are critical for military personnel moving to a new duty station. The PCS orders are required to establish eligibility for relocation benefits, including adjustments in BAH to reflect the cost of living in the new location.
Lease Agreement or Mortgage Statement: Providing a copy of a current lease agreement or mortgage statement is essential for verifying residence and the necessity for housing allowance. This document ensures the BAH is appropriately allocated and aligns with actual housing costs.

Knowing the importance of each document related to the DA 5960 form can greatly affect the application process for Basic Allowance for Housing. Each form and document serves a unique purpose, from verifying eligibility and family size to ensuring benefits are accurately distributed based on the current living situation. Service members and their families are encouraged to gather and prepare these documents early in their application process to facilitate a smooth transition and ensure their housing needs are met efficiently and effectively.

Similar forms

The DD Form 1750, also known as the Packing List, shares similarities with the DA 5960 in terms of its use within the Department of Defense for administrative purposes. Both serve to streamline logistics and personal affairs, with the DA 5960 focusing on authorization for basic allowance for quarters (BAQ) and variable housing allowances (VHA), while the DD Form 1750 is used to itemize and organize equipment and property for transportation or storage. Each form requires detailed information to ensure accuracy and accountability, facilitating the efficient management of military resources and personnel entitlements.

Similar to the DA 5960, the SF 86, or Standard Form 86, is a critical document used within federal employment and security clearance processes. It is required for individuals seeking a government position that mandates a background check and clearance. Both forms are integral to the administrative procedures of federal employment, with the DA 5960 managing housing allowances and the SF 86 focusing on collecting extensive personal information for security clearance. They contribute to the organizational structure and operational efficiency by ensuring that personal and financial aspects are properly managed.

The DA 31 form, known as the Request and Authority for Leave, shares objectives with the DA 5960 in the aspect of managing personal affairs for military personnel. Both forms are pivotal in ensuring that the entitlements and personal needs of service members are addressed within the administrative framework of the military. While the DA 5960 handles housing allowances, the DA 31 facilitates the processing of leave requests, enabling a systematic approach to managing time off from duty. This ensures that personnel welfare is maintained in conjunction with the operational readiness of military units.

The BAH (Basic Allowance for Housing) form, although not labeled like the DA or DD forms, is intrinsically linked to the DA 5960 by its primary purpose. The BAH form is used to determine the housing allowance for eligible military members based on their duty location, pay grade, and dependent status. The connection between the BAH form and DA 5960 lies in their mutual aim to provide financial assistance for housing to service members. Both forms work together to ensure that military personnel are adequately supported in their housing needs, reflecting the military's commitment to the welfare of its members.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the DA 5960 form, it's essential to pay attention to both what you should and shouldn't do to ensure the process is completed accurately and efficiently. Here are eight key points to consider:

Do read all the instructions carefully before you start filling out the form. Understanding the requirements will help avoid any errors.
Do double-check your personal information, such as your full name, social security number, and any other identifying details, for accuracy.
Do ensure that all applicable sections of the form are filled out. If a section does not apply, mark it as "N/A" to indicate this.
Do use black ink or type the information electronically if the form permits, as this improves readability and reduces the chance of errors.
Don't guess on dates or amounts. Verify all information for accuracy before entering it on the form.
Don't leave any required fields blank. Incomplete forms may lead to processing delays or the form being returned.
Don't use correction fluid or tape. If you make a mistake, start with a new form to ensure the document remains clean and legible.
Don't forget to sign and date the form in the designated section. Unsigned forms will not be processed.

Misconceptions

Understanding 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 crucial for many service members. However, there are several misconceptions that can lead to confusion and potential financial issues. To clear up these misunderstandings, here is a list of common misconceptions:

It’s only for married personnel: A common myth is that the DA 5960 form is exclusively for use by married members of the military. In reality, this form is used by all service members who are entitled to basic allowance for quarters, whether they are married or single.
It’s automatically updated: Some believe that the DA 5960 form updates automatically when personal circumstances change. However, service members are responsible for submitting a new DA 5960 to reflect changes such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child.
Every service member gets the same allowance: The idea that all service members receive the same housing allowance is incorrect. The basic allowance is determined by several factors including pay grade, geographic location, and dependent status, all of which are outlined in the DA 5960 form.
It’s a one-time submission: Contrary to what some may think, the DA 5960 form is not a one-time submission. It must be resubmitted and updated anytime there is a significant life event or a change in the service member's housing status.
No proof is required for changes: While filling out the DA 5960 form may seem straightforward, it requires proof of any changes made. For example, adding dependents requires documentation such as marriage certificates or birth certificates.
Filling it out incorrectly has no consequences: Incorrectly completing the DA 5960 form can lead to serious consequences, including the potential for overpayment and the requirement to repay any excess funds received. It is vital to fill out the form accurately and consult with a personnel officer if there are any questions.
Only the service member can submit the form: While it's typically the service member's responsibility to submit the DA 5960, there are circumstances where a spouse or designated representative may need to submit the form on behalf of the service member, especially in cases of deployment or when the service member is otherwise unable to submit the form themselves.

Addressing these misconceptions ensures that service members and their families are well informed and can avoid potential issues related to housing allowances. When in doubt, always seek advice from a trusted military personnel officer.

Key takeaways

The DA 5960 form, also known as the Authorization to Start, Stop, or Change Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH), is a critical document for U.S. military service members. Its primary purpose is to manage BAH payments accurately, which are essential for service members who are either renting or owning a residence or for those who have dependents. Understanding how to properly fill out and use the DA 5960 form is important for ensuring that service members receive the correct housing allowance. Below are six key takeaways about completing and utilizing the DA 5960 form:

Accuracy is crucial: When filling out the DA 5960 form, it is imperative to provide accurate information about dependents, marriage status, and current residence. Inaccuracies can result in delays or incorrect BAH rates.
Updates are necessary after life changes: Service members must submit a new DA 5960 form to reflect any significant life events such as marriage, divorce, birth of a child, or a change in custody of dependents. These updates ensure BAH rates are adjusted according to the service member's current situation.
Commander’s Certification: The DA 5960 form requires certification from the service member's commander or a designated representative. This step verifies the accuracy of the information provided and is essential for the form’s processing.
Understanding BAH rates: BAH rates are determined by geographical location, pay grade, and dependency status. Service members should acquaint themselves with how these factors impact their BAH to ensure the calculated allowance matches their entitlement.
Seek assistance if needed: Completing government forms can sometimes be confusing. Service members should not hesitate to seek assistance from their finance office or a knowledgeable superior if they have questions about the DA 5960 form.
Online resources are available: The Department of Defense offers online tools and calculators to help service members understand and estimate their BAH rates. These resources can be beneficial in preparing the DA 5960 form and planning one’s finances.

Properly managing the DA 5960 form is integral for service members in maintaining their housing allowances accurately. Utilizing the resources available and ensuring information is current and correct can alleviate potential issues down the line. As with any official military documentation, attention to detail and prompt updates will facilitate a smoother administrative process.

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