Fill Out a Valid Da 1380 Form

When filling out the DA 1380 form, attention to detail is crucial. Here are nine guidelines to help ensure the form is completed accurately and effectively.

• Do prepare the form by the last day of each duty month to meet submission deadlines.
• Don't forget to include the complete designation and address of the records manager in Item 4.
• Do check the appropriate box in Item 9 to indicate the type of duty performed.
• Don't leave any items blank unless specifically instructed to do so.
• Do ensure the officer verifying the duty signs the form in Item 11 before submission.
• Don't use abbreviations or unclear terms that may confuse the reader.
• Do provide clear descriptions of duties and training in Column d.
• Don't submit the form without verifying all entries for accuracy and completeness.
• Do file the completed form according to AR 25-400-2 after validation by the appropriate agency.

Filling out and using the DA Form 1380 is an essential process for documenting individual performance of Reserve duty training. Here are key takeaways to consider:

• The form must be prepared by the last day of each duty month to ensure timely submission for pay or retirement points.
• It is important to accurately complete all required fields, including the reporting agency, soldier's information, and details of the duties performed.
• Different personnel are responsible for preparing the form based on the type of training or duty performed, such as commanding officers or designated military representatives.
• When filling out the form, check the appropriate box to indicate the type of duty performed and cite the correct documentary authority.
• Units must process the DA Form 1380 for pay and retirement points by submitting it to the appropriate channels, such as DFAS for paid duties or AHRC for non-paid duties.
• Upon validation by DFAS or AHRC, the form must be filed according to established regulations and submitted to the soldier's records for proper documentation.

Understanding the DA 1380 form is essential for service members in the Army Reserve. However, several misconceptions can lead to confusion. Here are eight common misunderstandings about this form:

• Misconception 1: The DA 1380 form is only for paid training.

This form is used for both paid and non-paid training. It documents all types of duty performed, regardless of whether the soldier receives compensation.

• Misconception 2: Only the soldier can fill out the DA 1380 form.

While soldiers provide information about their duties, the form must be prepared and signed by an authorized officer who verifies the training or duty performed.

• Misconception 3: The form needs to be submitted immediately after training.

The DA 1380 should be prepared by the last day of each duty month. It is important to adhere to this timeline to ensure proper processing.

• Misconception 4: The DA 1380 form is only for training conducted in the soldier's assigned unit.

This form can also document training conducted in an attached status or with another service, as long as the appropriate procedures are followed.

• Misconception 5: The form is optional for documenting training.

Completion of the DA 1380 is mandatory for documenting reserve duty training. It ensures that soldiers receive the appropriate retirement points and compensation.

• Misconception 6: All items on the form must be filled out for every entry.

While many items are self-explanatory, some may not apply to every situation. It is crucial to check only the relevant boxes and provide the necessary details.

• Misconception 7: The form is only relevant for certain ranks.

All soldiers in the Army Reserve, regardless of rank, must use the DA 1380 form to document their training and duties.

• Misconception 8: Submission of the DA 1380 is the final step in the process.

After submission, the form must be validated by DFAS or AHRC. Only then can retirement points be awarded and recorded in the soldier's official records.

• DA Form 1059: This form is used to document a Soldier's completion of a training course. Similar to the DA 1380, it captures details about the training, including dates and content, but focuses specifically on formal educational programs rather than general duty performance.
• DA Form 2-1: This is the Personnel Qualification Record, which provides a comprehensive overview of a Soldier’s qualifications, training, and assignments. Like the DA 1380, it helps maintain accurate records but serves a broader purpose in tracking an individual's overall military career.
• DA Form 4187: This is a Personnel Action form used to request changes in a Soldier's status or duty assignment. While the DA 1380 records specific training activities, the DA 4187 is focused on administrative changes and actions affecting the Soldier’s career.
• DA Form 2446: This form is used for documenting the completion of Army correspondence courses. Similar to the DA 1380, it tracks training but is specific to self-paced learning rather than in-person training or duties.
• DA Form 330: The Request for Security Clearance form is used to initiate a background check for personnel requiring access to classified information. While it serves a different purpose, both forms are essential for documenting aspects of a Soldier's career and responsibilities.
• DA Form 705: This form records a Soldier's physical fitness test results. Like the DA 1380, it reflects performance metrics but is specifically focused on physical readiness rather than general duty performance.
• DA Form 4180: This form is used to document the completion of a Soldier's Noncommissioned Officer (NCO) Education System training. It shares similarities with the DA 1380 in that it tracks specific training but is tailored for NCOs.
• DA Form 3508: This is a request for a leave of absence. While the DA 1380 tracks training and duty performance, the DA 3508 addresses administrative needs, specifically regarding time away from duty.
• DA Form 1310: This form is used for documenting the performance of funeral honors duty. Similar to the DA 1380, it records specific duties performed, but it is focused on a unique and solemn aspect of military service.