Blank Da 137 2 Template

1. Failing to include all required personal information. Ensure the full name, rank, orders number, gaining unit, and losing unit are all correctly filled out.

2. Not using the correct date format. When entering dates, use the specified format: YYYYMMDD. This mistake can lead to processing delays.

3. Overlooking the necessity for commander verification. Signatures from an official in the command chain are essential before proceeding with clearance.

4. Ignoring the clearance requirements. Every marked activity needs to be cleared—missing just one can create significant issues.

5. Providing incorrect contact information. Ensure that the name and phone number listed for signatures match the individuals responsible for each clearance.

6. Confusing the purpose of the remarks section. Use block 16 to provide an overview of unique circumstances or additional relevant information for processing.

7. Not checking off all relevant boxes. Each installation activity must be marked "Yes" or "No" appropriately to avoid delays in processing.

8. Missing the deadline for submission. Clearance must be completed before the final military pay appointment; delays can impact your final disbursement.

9. Failing to verify financial obligations. Ensure all debts to the government are resolved prior to clearance to prevent partial payment of final pay.

The DA Form 137-2, known as the Installation Clearance Record, serves as a crucial document for military personnel transitioning out of active duty or changing duty stations. Accompanying this form, several other documents are often required to ensure a smooth transition. Each of these documents plays a significant role in confirming various clearances, debts, or benefits associated with a service member’s departure. Below is a list of these essential forms and documents.

• DD Form 214: This is the Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty. It provides a comprehensive summary of a service member’s military service, including dates of service, discharge type, and the character of service. The DD Form 214 is crucial for veterans seeking benefits after leaving the military.
• DD Form 2900: This form, officially titled the Post-Deployment Health Assessment, is utilized to assess the health of service members returning from deployment. Completing this form ensures that any potential health issues are addressed early, aiding in the well-being of the transitioning service member.
• DA Form 5434: Known as the Sponsorship Program Counseling and Information Sheet, this form is used to ensure that service members receive adequate support during their transition. It outlines the responsibilities of sponsors as well as the resources available to help the transitioning individual.
• SRB or Service Record Brief: This document provides a snapshot of a service member’s career information including assignments, awards, and performance evaluations. It is an important tool for verifying completed service obligations and related administrative requirements.
• Travel Orders: These are official documents issued to a service member that outline the details of their travel. They specify allowances, modes of transportation, and any other pertinent information regarding the travel associated with a Permanent Change of Station (PCS).
• Financial Clearance Documentation: This includes statements or certifications that confirm a service member has settled any outstanding debts to the military or received the necessary approvals for any financial obligations prior to departure.

Each of these documents, alongside the DA Form 137-2, contributes to a service member's transition process. Proper completion and submission of all required paperwork help prevent delays and facilitate a seamless transition from military service to civilian life or new assignments.

The DA 31 form, known as the Request and Authority for Leave, is essential for service members planning to take leave from their duties. Similar to the DA 137-2, it focuses on the necessary clearance before action. Soldiers must obtain approvals from their superiors and ensure that their absence poses no detriment to the unit's efficiency. Both forms serve as a check to confirm that all aspects of a soldier's duty, including personnel and financial responsibilities, are addressed before transitioning out of their current status.

The DD Form 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, marks the completion of a soldier's service. Like the DA 137-2, the DD Form 214 is vital for verifying a soldier's readiness for civilian life, as it encapsulates the service and honors earned. This document provides the necessary finalization needed to settle any financial obligations and confirms completion of military service. Both forms share the goal of facilitating a smooth transition, but they cater to different points in a soldier's career.

The DA 4833 form, Commanders Report of Disciplinary or Administrative Actions, is another essential document during transitions. It may outline any disciplinary actions taken against a service member and helps clear up any issues that may affect final pay or status changes. Similar to the DA 137-2, it ensures that all outstanding actions are settled before the soldier moves to a new phase in their career, enhancing accountability during the clearance process.

The DA Form 3508, which acts as a Request for Assignment Outside the Continental United States, shares similarities with the DA 137-2 in terms of transition needs. Soldiers must provide clearances to ensure they are fit for reassignment. This form also requires approval and provides a systematic approach to address logistical hurdles before moving abroad. Both forms are geared toward streamlining processes when service members change their assignment status.

The DD Form 250, Material Inspection and Receiving Report, is utilized in the context of logistics and material management. While seemingly administrative, it ensures that debts or materials are accounted for before a soldier's departure, aligning it with the DA 137-2’s emphasis on resolving any outstanding obligations. Each form precipitates a thorough review process, ensuring responsible transitions that leave no loose ends.

Finally, the DA Form 5404, which captures Soldier for Life Transition Assistance Program (SFL-TAP) attendance, focuses on preparing soldiers for civilian life. Like the DA 137-2, it features a checklist of requirements that soldiers must fulfill before moving on from service. Both forms are geared towards ensuring that transitioning soldiers have completed all necessary components, confirming their readiness to enter the next stage of their lives and careers.

When filling out the DA 137-2 form, careful attention is essential to ensure a smooth and accurate processing experience. Below are seven important dos and don’ts to consider:

• Do ensure all personal information is accurate.
• Do obtain required signatures from all relevant installation activities.
• Do complete the form before your final military pay appointment.
• Do clearly specify your reason for clearing.
• Don't leave any sections blank; incomplete information can lead to delays.
• Don't forget to include your departure date in the correct format.
• Don't ignore the remarks section; provide any additional details as needed.

• Misconception 1: The DA 137 2 form is optional.

This form is required for any Soldier transitioning from active duty or moving to another component. Completing it is essential to ensure a smooth transition.

• Misconception 2: The form only applies to Soldiers separating or retiring.

While it is crucial for those separating or retiring, the DA 137 2 form is also necessary for Soldiers undergoing a Permanent Change of Station (PCS).

• Misconception 3: All signatures on the clearance checklist are unnecessary.

Every signature listed in the clearance section is vital. Lack of these signatures will result in delays in your final clearance process.

• Misconception 4: You can receive full final pay without completing the form.

Failure to complete the DA 137 2 form may lead to receiving only a portion of your final pay, as verification of outstanding debts is essential.

• Misconception 5: Once I submit the form, I have fulfilled my obligations.

Submitting the form is just one step. You must also complete all required clearances before your final military pay appointment.

• Misconception 6: There is no deadline for completing the form.

There are specific timelines for completing the form and processing clearances. Failing to meet these deadlines can significantly delay your transition.

• Misconception 7: The form does not need to be filled out if I have no debts.

Even if you have no debts, the DA 137 2 form must be submitted to ensure all clearance requirements are met.

• Misconception 8: The same process applies no matter where I am stationed.

Each installation may have its own specific procedures for completing the DA 137 2 form and obtaining clearances. Always check with local guidelines.

• Misconception 9: Only the Soldier is responsible for completing the form.

While it is primarily the Soldier's responsibility, commanders and designated officials also play a critical role in ensuring all information is accurate and complete.

Here are some key points to consider when filling out and using the DA 137 2 form:

• Purpose of the Form: The DA 137 2 form is essential for ensuring soldier readiness before a Permanent Change of Station (PCS), separation, discharge, or retirement. It verifies that all necessary clearances are obtained.
• Disclosure Requirements: Providing information on this form is voluntary, but not completing it may lead to delayed final pay. Soldiers must understand the importance of filling it out accurately.
• Clearance Process: All required signatures must be obtained prior to reporting to the processing control station. Missing signatures can delay clearance, causing potential payment issues.
• Sections to Complete: There are multiple sections within the form, including personnel data and installation clearances. Each section must be carefully filled out to ensure proper processing.
• Timeliness: It is important to complete this checklist before the final military pay appointment. Failure to do so will result in delays with separation payments until clearance is finalized.
• Additional Information: Soldiers should use the remarks section to provide any extra details that can assist with the clearance process, ensuring all relevant information is documented.