Free Af 899 Form in PDF

Instructions on Writing Af 899

Filling out the AF 899 form is a critical step in documenting a Permanent Change of Assignment (PCA) for Air Force personnel. The process involves coordination between the losing and gaining units, the Military Personnel Section (MPS), and potentially the Air Force Personnel Center (AFPC) if complications arise. Following these steps ensures the smooth transition of airmen within their duties, enabling them to continue contributing effectively to their new roles without undue administrative delays.

1. Contact the gaining unit: The losing unit needs to reach out to the gaining unit to gather all necessary duty information. This includes Duty Air Force Specialty Code (DAFSC), Duty Effective Date, Office Symbol, Duty Phone, Position Number, Command Level, Gaining PAS Code, and Duty Title.
2. Provide duty information: The gaining unit must provide the requested duty information to the losing unit. This ensures that the transition is seamless, and all necessary information is accurately recorded.
3. Prepare AF IMT 2096: Upon receiving the duty information, the losing unit prepares the AF IMT 2096 form. This form captures all details of the PCA and is critical for updating the personnel records in the Military Personnel Data System (MilPDS).
4. Forward to MPS for processing: The completed AF IMT 2096, with the unit commander's signature, is forwarded to the MPS. The MPS is responsible for verifying the information and ensuring that the commander has authorized the PCA.
5. Update MilPDS: Upon verification, the MPS updates the AF IMT 2096 in MilPDS. If there are any issues with the update, a Case Management System (CMS) case is submitted to document and resolve the issue.
6. Forward completed AF IMT 2096 to ARMS: After successful update in MilPDS, the MPS sends the AF IMT 2096 or RIP to the Automated Records Management System (ARMS) for filing, completing the documentation process.
7. Process CMS Case if necessary: If the updating process encounters issues, the AFPC receives the CMS case from the MPS and processes it according to the situation. This ensures that all PCA-related changes are accurately recorded and managed.

Throughout this process, the losing unit's responsibilities include initiating contact with the gaining unit, preparing and forwarding the necessary documentation, and ensuring that any subsequent personnel actions, such as evaluations and decorations, are completed. These steps are essential for managing a PCA smoothly and efficiently, keeping the Air Force personnel system updated and functional.

What is the purpose of the AF 899 form?

The AF 899 form, referred to as Request and Authorization for Permanent Change of Station - Military, is not utilized in the context of a Permanent Change of Assignment (PCA) that does not entail entitlements or allowances. Such PCAs, where an Airman is reassigned locally without a change to their Permanent Duty Station (PDS) that would invoke PCS entitlements, are documented via an AF IMT 2096 or an "Intra-MPF Assignment Action" system-generated Record of Individual Personnel (RIP), not the AF 899 form.

What is the difference between an Intra-Command PCA and an Inter-Command PCA?

An Intra-Command PCA involves the reassignment of an Airman within the same major command (MAJCOM) and the same installation. This type of PCA includes changes in unit of assignment, organization, position number, duty effective date, and supervisor. On the other hand, an Inter-Command PCA might involve reassignments across different MAJCOMs or installations, potentially requiring a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) if the new duty station is outside the corporate limits of the same city or town.

Are PCS orders required for a PCA?

PCS orders are not required for a PCA as long as the Airman's Permanent Duty Station (PDS) does not change. Since PCA without PCS does not accrue entitlements or allowances typically associated with a PCS, the documentation is handled through an AF IMT 2096 or a system-generated RIP. The only exception is when the PCA results in a change of the PDS, necessitating PCS orders.

How is a PCA documented?

A PCA is documented either on an AF IMT 2096 or using an "Intra-MPF Assignment Action" system-generated Record of Individual Personnel (RIP). These documents are initiated by the losing unit with details provided by the gaining unit and are then forwarded to the Military Personnel Section (MPS) for processing and updating in the Military Personnel Data System (MilPDS).

What information is needed from the gaining unit for a PCA?

The gaining unit must provide specific duty information to the losing unit for the PCA process, including Duty Air Force Specialty Code (DAFSC), Duty Effective Date, Office Symbol, Duty Phone, Position Number, Duty Title, Command Level, and Gaining PAS Code. This information is essential for preparing the AF IMT 2096 and updating personnel records accordingly.

What happens if there are errors in the PCA documentation?

If errors are identified in the PCA documentation or if the Military Personnel Data System (MilPDS) rejects the update, the Military Personnel Section (MPS) is responsible for submitting a CMS case to address and correct the discrepancies. The MPS will monitor the CMS case until the process is completed and the AF IMT 2096 or RIP is accurately updated in the Automated Records Management System (ARMS).

Who is responsible for completing the PCA process?

The losing unit bears the primary responsibility for initiating the PCA process by contacting the gaining unit for the Airman's duty information, preparing the AF IMT 2096, and forwarding it to the MPS. Furthermore, the losing unit must follow up with the MPS to ensure the process is completed, including any necessary personnel actions such as evaluations and decorations.

When people fill out the AF 899 form, common mistakes can lead to delays or incorrect processing of Permanent Change of Assignment (PCA) documentation. One of the first mistakes is failing to contact the gaining unit for detailed duty information. The form requires specifics like Duty Air Force Specialty Code (DAFSC), duty effective date, office symbol, and more. Omitting these details can stall the process.

Another common error involves not verifying the completeness and accuracy of the information provided by the gaining unit. Even small inaccuracies in data like duty phone numbers or position numbers can lead to substantial issues down the line, especially when updating Military Personnel Data System (MilPDS) records.

Overlooking the necessity for the losing unit commander's signature on the AF IMT 2096 is a significant mistake. This oversight can halt the process, as the signature is a mandatory step for verifying the authenticity and accuracy of the information before forwarding it to the Military Personnel Section (MPS).

Not following up with the MPS after submitting the AF IMT 2096 is another common misstep. This form is critical in updating an Airman’s official records. Without proper follow-up, paperwork can be misplaced or delayed, impacting the Airman’s career timeline.

Frequently, there's a failure to ensure that the form is correctly updated in the MilPDS. If the MPS encounters issues with the update, a Case Management System (CMS) Case needs to be submitted. Neglecting to monitor this process can result in incomplete records.

Sometimes, individuals neglect to forward the completed AF IMT 2096 to the appropriate Automated Records Management System (ARMS) for filing. This step is crucial for preserving historical data and ensuring the personnel file is up to date.

Not completing associated personnel actions, such as evaluations and decorations, in conjunction with the PCA process is a mistake that can have long-term effects on an Airman's career. These documents are vital for promotion and other opportunities.

Failure to accurately capture and relay the new duty information, especially the gaining PAS code and command level, can lead to incorrect assignments and misplacement within organizational structures, affecting both the individual's career progression and unit efficiency.

Last but not least, not utilizing the resources available, such as the Attachment 5 instructions for filling out the form and updating procedures in Attachment 1 and 4, can lead to errors in the submission process. Being unaware of or misunderstanding the guidance provided can result in incorrect or incomplete form submissions, further complicating the PCA process.

Managing a Permanent Change of Assignment (PCA) in the Air Force involves more than just the AF Form 899. This complex process requires meticulous documentation to ensure clarity, legality, and smooth transitions for Airmen. Several forms and documents play critical roles in this seamless operation, supporting the primary objective of efficiently maneuvering personnel within or across commands without altering their permanent duty station (PDS).

• AF IMT 2096 - Classification/On-the-Job Training Action form used to document changes in assignment, classification, or training status of an Airman within the local unit.
• Intra-MPF Assignment Action System-generated Record of Individual Personnel (RIP) - Provides a comprehensive record of an Airman's intra-command assignment action, including the new position and unit details.
• Automated Records Management System (ARMS) - Not a form but a crucial system where the AF IMT 2096 or RIP is filed, facilitating organized record-keeping and easy retrieval.
• Military Personnel Data System (MilPDS) - Another essential system rather than a form, it is the database where updated duty information is recorded. It ensures up-to-date tracking of all personnel.
• Career Management System (CMS) Case Attachment - When updates in MilPDS face rejections, a CMS case is generated, documenting the issue and the steps taken towards its resolution.
• ARMS Residual Records PSP Guide - Provides guidance on managing records that remain after processing assignments, crucial for ensuring compliance and proper documentation.
• AF Form 1000 - While not directly mentioned, forms like the AF Form 1000 for base-level relocation procedures can complement a PCA process by offering relevant relocation guidelines within the same duty station.
• Joint Federal Travel Regulations (JFTR) Chapter 5 - Offers detailed guidelines on travel and relocation policies for military personnel, assisting in understanding entitlements and procedures that may affect the PCA process.

Each of these documents and systems plays a pivotal role in the structural and procedural framework that governs the movement and management of Air Force personnel. They ensure that every PCA is executed systematically, with clarity and in full compliance with the established regulations. Together, they provide a coherent, comprehensive infrastructure that supports Airmen throughout their careers, facilitating their growth, mobility, and success within the Air Force. Understanding and utilizing these forms and systems effectively is crucial for maintaining operational efficiency and personnel readiness within the U.S. Air Force.

The DD Form 1610, Request and Authorization for TDY Travel of DoD Personnel, shares similarities with the AF Form 899 in that it is also used to manage and document personnel movements within the Department of Defense. Both forms are designed to ensure proper authorization, accountability, and tracking of personnel assignments and relocations. Yet, unlike the AF Form 899, which focuses on permanent changes without allowances, the DD Form 1610 specifically facilitates temporary duty travel (TDY), detailing travel orders, entitlements, and logistic arrangements for the personnel involved.

The DA Form 4187, Personnel Action, is another document reflecting the AF Form 899's purpose within the Army domain. It is used for a wide range of personnel actions, including reassignments, duty reclassifications, and changes in service obligations. Similar to the AF Form 899, it serves as a vital tool for documenting and processing personnel reassignments within the same or different duty stations, albeit across Army installations, ensuring such movements are officially recorded and managed appropriately.

The NAVPERS 1300/16, Report of Suitability for Overseas Assignment, resembles the AF Form 899 in its role in managing personnel assignments. While the AF Form 899 deals with permanent changes of assignment, the NAVPERS 1300/16 focuses on evaluating personnel for overseas postings. Both documents are fundamental to deployment and personnel management processes, ensuring individuals are placed in positions and locations where they can best fulfill mission requirements.

The Request and Authorization for PCS (Permanent Change of Station) is a generic form type similar to the AF Form 899, designed for use across various military branches for managing permanent relocations. While the specific form number might vary (e.g., NAVMC for Marines, DA for Army), the core function mirrors that of the AF 899 in documenting permanent assignment changes. However, unlike the PCA without PCS entitlements indicated in AF Form 899, PCS forms typically involve financial entitlements and allowances due to the broader scope of the relocation.

The SF-50, Notification of Personnel Action, is a civilian equivalent used within federal agencies to document employment and position changes, including promotions, reassignments, and relocations. Like the AF Form 899, the SF-50 is a formal document that records any change in a federal employee's career trajectory, ensuring accurate tracking of their employment history and eligibility for benefits. Despite the difference in target audience, both documents play a crucial role in personnel administration.

The I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, although not directly related to military personnel movements, is akin to AF Form 899 in the context of documenting and authorizing the change of status or assignment of personnel. In this case, the I-129 facilitates the employment of nonimmigrant workers by U.S. employers in various visa categories. Both forms are essential for the formal approval process of personnel assignments, ensuring compliance with organizational or governmental policies.

The PCS Travel Orders, specifically within each military service, which include detailed instructions and authorizations for a service member's relocation from one permanent duty station to another, resemble the AF Form 899. These orders often include extensive logistical details, entitlements, and allowances, similar to what might be found in the specifics of an AF Form 899 document, but for the unique circumstances surrounding a PCS move. The key difference lies in the PCS orders' focus on supporting a broad spectrum of relocation needs, including financial entitlements, unlike the PCA scenario described in the AF Form 899 which specifically excludes such allowances.

When preparing to fill out the AF 899 form, it's important to keep in mind several dos and don'ts to ensure the process goes smoothly and accurately. Here's a guide to help you navigate through the completion of this form:

Things You Should Do:

• Verify the Accuracy of Information: Ensure all data collected from the losing and gaining units, including duty information and Personnel Data System (MilPDS) details, are correct and up-to-date.
• Obtain the Necessary Signatures: Make sure the AF IMT 2096 form is signed by the unit commander before forwarding it to the Military Personnel Section (MPS) for processing.
• Follow Up: After submitting the AF IMT 2096 to the MPS, keep in contact to monitor the processing stage and confirm the update in the MilPDS and ARMS.
• Complete Additional Personnel Actions: Ensure any pending evaluations and decorations are finalized and recorded.

Things You Shouldn't Do:

• Assume Automatic Updates: Don't presume that once the form is submitted to the MPS, everything is automatically updated. Manual verification and follow-ups are essential.
• Overlook the Commander’s Signature: Skipping the step of obtaining the unit commander's signature can result in processing delays.
• Ignore the Need for Accuracy: Failing to double-check the information for accuracy before submission can lead to errors in the service member's records.
• Forget About Additional Personnel Actions: Neglecting to complete and update evaluations and decorations could affect the service member’s records and potential future assignments.

There are several misconceptions about the AF Form 899 and its role within the Air Force personnel system. Understanding the actual process and requirements of the Permanent Change of Assignment (PCA) is crucial for both service members and administrators. Here, we aim to clarify these common misunderstandings:

• AF Form 899 is required for all PCA moves. In reality, AF Form 899, Request and Authorization for Permanent Change of Station - Military, is not utilized for PCA moves that do not include entitlements or allowances. Instead, documentation is handled through an AF IMT 2096 or an "Intra-MPF Assignment Action" system-generated Record of Individual Personnel (RIP).
• PCA moves always involve a change in Permanent Duty Station (PDS). This is not the case. PCA without PCS (Permanent Change of Station) can occur within the same permanent duty station or between duty stations within the corporate limits of the same city or town, without the need for PCS orders.
• Every PCA results in financial entitlements. PCA moves are typically unfunded, meaning they do not accrue the usual allowances or entitlements associated with PCS moves. Only when the PCA involves a change in the Permanent Duty Station, which is an exception, might PCS orders - and therefore entitlements - be issued.
• Any move within the same command requires AF Form 899. This is incorrect. Even for Intra-Command PCA, where individuals are reassigned to a different manpower position within the same command and duty location, an AF Form 899 is not warranted. Documentation is instead captured on an AF IMT 2096 or a system-generated RIP.
• PCA procedures are the same regardless of the specific circumstances. The reality is more complex. The procedures and documentation required can vary, particularly between Intra-Command and Inter-Command PCAs, each having distinct steps and responsible parties involved.
• Submitting an AF IMT 2096 is the sole responsibility of the gaining unit. Actually, the process involves coordination between both losing and gaining units. The losing unit initiates the PCA actions with information provided by the gaining unit and is responsible for preparing and forwarding the AF IMT 2096 to the Military Personnel Section (MPS) for processing.
• The MPS plays a passive role in the PCA process. On the contrary, the MPS is actively involved in reviewing the AF IMT 2096 for accuracy and commander's signature, updating the Military Personnel Data System (MilPDS), and forwarding completed documentation for filing. They also handle any updates rejected by MilPDS and monitor corresponding Correction of Military Records (CMS) cases until resolution.

Clearing up these misconceptions helps ensure a smoother PCA process for Air Force personnel, facilitating accurate documentation and adherence to procedural requirements.

When handling the process associated with a Permanent Change of Assignment (PCA) within the Air Force, there are several key procedural steps and important nuances that must be understood. These are distilled from the extensive guidance found in the Air Force's Personnel Services Delivery Guide:

• Understanding PCA without PCS: A PCA (Permanent Change of Assignment) without a PCS (Permanent Change of Station) can occur in two distinct scenarios: an Airman's reassignment within the same permanent duty station or to another station within the same city or town limits. It's crucial to note that the usual rules and entitlements for a PCS do not apply in these cases.
• Documentation and Orders Requirement: For a PCA, publishing an AF Form 899, which is typically used for PCS, is not authorized since it entails accrual of entitlements or allowances, which do not apply to PCAs. Instead, documentation for a PCA is captured on an AF IMT 2096 or an “Intra-MPF Assignment Action” system-generated Record of Individual Personnel (RIP).
• Intra-Command PCA: This type of reassignment involves changing units within the same installation without changing the major command (MAJCOM). It requires coordination between losing and gaining units to update the Airman's assignment, including duty information, effective date, and supervisory chain.
• Role of the Military Personnel Section (MPS): The MPS plays a crucial role in the PCA process by updating duty information in the Military Personnel Data System (MilPDS) based on the information received from losing units. They are also responsible for ensuring the updated AF IMT 2096 or RIP is filed appropriately.
• Procedural Steps for Updating Intra-Command PCA: The process involves several steps starting from the losing unit contacting the gaining unit for new duty information, to the preparation and forwarding of the AF IMT 2096 for processing by the MPS, and finally, the updating of records in MilPDS and ARMS.
• Accuracy and Verification: Accuracy of the provided information and verification, including the commander’s signature on the AF IMT 2096, is vital for the MPS's smooth process of updating the information in MilPDS and ensuring proper documentation.
• Follow-up and Suspense: The losing unit is responsible for following up with the MPS to ensure the processing of the PCA is completed, addressing any issues that may arise, and completing any remaining personnel actions such as evaluations and decorations.

Each of these points emphasizes the structured yet flexible approach required to manage a PCA within the Air Force, ensuring that personnel reassignments are executed efficiently and without disrupting the overarching mission objectives.