Free Da 2166 8 1 Form in PDF

Instructions on Writing Da 2166 8 1

Completing the DA Form 2166-8-1, also referred to as the NCOER Counseling and Support Form, is a systematic process that lays the groundwork for evaluating a Non-Commissioned Officer's (NCO) performance and potential. This form plays a crucial role in formalizing the strengths and areas for improvement of the NCO, ensuring structured feedback and guidance throughout the evaluation period. It is vital to approach this task with thoroughness to accurately reflect the NCO's contributions and areas needing development. The following steps break down the process into manageable parts, making the completion of the DA Form 2166-8-1 clear and understandable.

1. Part I - Administrative Data:
   • Fill in the NCO's full name including last, first, and middle initial.
   • Enter the Social Security Number (SSN) of the rated NCO carefully.
   • Provide the rank, date of rank, and Primary Military Occupational Specialty Code (PMOSC) of the NCO.
   • Document the unit, organization, station, ZIP code or APO, major command, and the status code.
   • Complete the section with the rated NCO’s email address (.gov or .mil), Unit Identification Code (UIC), Command (CMD), and Personnel Services Battalion (PSB) code.
2. Part II - Authentication:
   • Add the name, SSN, rank, Primary MOS/Branch, organization, and duty assignment for the rater, senior rater, and reviewer.
   • Include the AKO email addresses (.gov or .mil) for the rater, senior rater, and reviewer.
   • Ensure the rated NCO's initials are correctly placed in the designated area.
3. Part III - Duty Description: This section is detailed by the rater and includes:
   • The principal duty title, duty MOSC, and a thorough description of daily duties and scope.
   • Identify areas of special emphasis and any appointed duties.
   • State the NCO's results for the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT), including the date and height/weight information.
4. Part IV - Army Values/Attributes/Skills/Actions: The rater should evaluate the NCO based on:
   • Army Values: Including loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage.
   • Competence, Physical Fitness & Military Bearing, Leadership, Training, and Responsibility & Accountability sections require detailed examples of the NCO's performance and a summary.

Upon completing the evaluation and review process, it's imperative to ensure all parties involved in the NCO's evaluation process have authenticated the form through their signatures and initials where required. This practice validates the accuracy of the information provided and confirms the structured feedback given to the NCO. Properly filled and authenticated, the DA Form 2166-8-1 serves as a critical tool in the NCO's career development, providing a clear trajectory for professional growth.

What is the DA Form 2166-8-1 used for?

The DA Form 2166-8-1, also known as the NCOER Counseling and Support Form, is used in the U.S. Army to document counseling sessions between a Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) and their rater. This form is a critical part of the NCO Evaluation Reporting System (NCOERS) and helps in preparing the annual evaluation report by providing a structured way to record assessments of an NCO’s performance and potential.

Who needs to fill out the DA Form 2166-8-1?

This form is filled out by the rater, with input from the rated NCO. It serves as a record of planned performance expectations and actual performance assessments discussed during counseling sessions throughout the rating period.

When should the DA Form 2166-8-1 be completed?

The form should be initiated at the beginning of the rating period, and then used continuously throughout the year for documenting counseling sessions. Ideally, it should be updated after each counseling session to ensure accurate and timely reflection of the NCO’s performance and development needs.

What are some key components of the DA Form 2166-8-1?

The form includes sections on administrative data, duty description, army values/attributes/skills/actions with a performance summary. It requires detailed information about the NCO’s duties, performance of those duties, physical fitness, leadership qualities, training responsibilities, and their accountability and responsibility levels.

Where can I find the DA Form 2166-8-1?

The official form is available through U.S. Army documentation and resource websites, typically in PDF format for download. It can also be obtained through the Army’s digital forms library or a unit’s administrative office.

How is the DA Form 2166-8-1 submitted?

Once completed and reviewed by the rated NCO, the form is submitted to the senior rater and then to the reviewer. The submission process typically follows the unit’s specific protocol for evaluation forms, which may include digital submission through an Army management system or as a hard copy through administrative channels.

Can the DA Form 2166-8-1 be filled out electronically?

Yes, the form can be filled out electronically. Digital completion allows for easier revisions and submission. The form should be saved in a format compatible with Army digital systems and follow all guidelines for electronic signatures and submissions.

What happens if an NCO disagrees with the assessment on the DA Form 2166-8-1?

If an NCO disagrees with any part of the assessment, they should first discuss their concerns with the rater. If unresolved, they can provide a written rebuttal to be included in their evaluation file, ensuring their perspective is recorded. The Army provides specific procedures for handling disagreements within the NCOER process.

Is the DA Form 2166-8-1 confidential?

Yes, the DA Form 2166-8-1 is considered For Official Use Only (FOUO) and contains personally identifiable information. It must be handled and stored according to Army privacy regulations to ensure confidentiality and security.

How often should counseling sessions documented on the DA Form 2166-8-1 occur?

The Army recommends that counseling sessions occur at least quarterly, but more frequent sessions may be beneficial for providing ongoing feedback and guidance to the rated NCO. Each session should be documented on the form to provide a comprehensive record of the NCO’s performance throughout the rating period.

Filling out the DA Form 2166-8-1, an essential document for Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) in the U.S. Army, requires careful attention to detail. A common mistake made is overlooking the privacy and security implications of the form's For Official Use Only (FOUO) designation. Individuals sometimes share or store this form without proper security measures, leading to potential breaches of personal information contained within.

Incorrect personal information is another frequent error. It's crucial to double-check the administrative data, including names, the Social Security Number (SSN), and rank details. Errors in these fields can cause significant issues in processing and record-keeping, potentially impacting career progression.

Many individuals fail to accurately represent their duty MOSC (Military Occupational Specialty Code) and principal duty title. Providing precise and current duty information ensures the evaluation is relevant and accurately reflects the rated NCO's responsibilities.

Often overlooked are the areas of special emphasis and appointed duties sections, which are vital for a comprehensive review of an NCO's performance and additional responsibilities. Neglecting to complete these parts can result in an incomplete portrayal of the NCO's scope of duties.

A critical component is the authentication section, where errors frequently occur. Signatures and dates validate the document's integrity and the assessments within. Any oversight here can invalidate the entire form, which delays processing and could necessitate starting over.

The performance summary sections under each value and attribute often contain vague or generic descriptions. Specific examples and detailed accounts of achievements or areas needing improvement guide clearer, more actionable feedback for the rated NCO.

Failure to indicate the APFT (Army Physical Fitness Test) date, height, and weight can lead to discrepancies in evaluating the physical fitness and military bearing section. Accurate and up-to-date physical data are critical for a comprehensive evaluation.

Lastly, a common pitfall is the inaccuracy in the email address fields for the rater, senior rater, and reviewer. Using an incorrect email can impede essential communications and delay the evaluation process. Ensuring that these emails are correct and functional is paramount for efficient processing.

The DA Form 2166-8-1, known as the NCOER Counseling and Support Form, is a critical document in the U.S. Army's evaluation process, providing a structured way for supervisors to offer feedback and support to non-commissioned officers (NCOs). Beyond this form, there are several other documents and forms that are often used in conjunction to ensure a comprehensive evaluation and support process. Understanding these documents contributes to a more effective management and appraisal system within military operations.

• DA Form 2166-9 Series: This series includes the NCO Evaluation Report forms that are used for documenting NCO performance and potential. The series comprises of three parts: DA Form 2166-9-1A (NCOER Support Form), DA Form 2166-9-1 (SGT), and DA Form 2166-9-2 (SSG-1SG/MSG).
• DA Form 4856: The Developmental Counseling Form is used to document counseling sessions between leaders and their subordinates, covering a wide range of topics including performance evaluations, professional development, and personal issues.
• DA Form 638: The Recommendation for Award form is used to recommend soldiers for awards. It is often filled out in conjunction with performance evaluations to recognize outstanding service or achievements.
• DA Form 4187: Personnel Action requests are facilitated by this form, allowing soldiers to request changes in duty, reassignments, special training, and other personnel actions that may arise from their performance evaluations.
• DA Form 31: Request and Authority for Leave form is used when soldiers need to request time off. Performance and conduct can influence approval of such requests.
• ERB/ORB (Enlisted Record Brief/Officer Record Brief): These documents provide a comprehensive record of a soldier's career, including assignments, education, and evaluation scores. They are often reviewed in conjunction with performance evaluations.
• DA Form 1059: The Service School Academic Evaluation Report documents the performance of soldiers who attend military schools and courses, providing feedback that is essential for career development.
• DA Form 5500/5501: Body Fat Content Worksheets are used alongside physical fitness evaluations to ensure soldiers meet the Army's physical requirements. The DA Form 5500 is for male soldiers, and the DA Form 5501 is for female soldiers.

Together, these forms and documents create a robust framework for assessing, discussing, and planning the professional development of soldiers within the U.S. Army. Each plays a specific role in ensuring the readiness and effectiveness of the force, by providing structured feedback, recognizing achievements, and guiding career progression. Engaging with these documents thoughtfully and thoroughly contributes to the development of skilled, competent, and motivated soldiers.

The Officer Evaluation Report (OER) bears a strong resemblance to the DA Form 2166 8 1, primarily in its objective to evaluate the performance and potential of officers in the United States Army. Just like the NCO Evaluation Report outlines the capabilities, achievements, and professional conduct of non-commissioned officers, the OER focuses on similar metrics for officers. Both forms play a crucial role in career progression, capturing key aspects such as leadership qualities, physical fitness, and adherence to army values. They are fundamental tools for making decisions related to promotions, assignments, and professional development within the military structure.

The DA Form 4856, or the Developmental Counseling Form, shares similarities with the DA Form 2166 8 1 in terms of its foundational purpose, which is to enhance individual performance and professional growth within the Army’s ranks. While the DA Form 2166 8 1 focuses on evaluating non-commissioned officers through structured assessment, the DA Form 4856 is employed across various ranks for counseling aimed at addressing and improving specific areas of concern. Both forms are crucial for personal development, underlining the Army's commitment to nurturing its personnel through ongoing feedback and counseling processes.

The Support Form, part of the OER and NCOER evaluation systems, closely aligns with the DA Form 2166 8 1 by acting as a preparatory document. This form gathers preliminary data and objectives that set the stage for the comprehensive evaluations found in the DA Form 2166 8 1 and its officer counterpart. It underscores the continuous assessment process, allowing for initial goals and expectations to be set, which are later examined for achievement and overall contribution towards the Army’s mission. This proactive approach facilitates a more detailed and nuanced evaluation of an individual’s performance over time.

The Enlisted Record Brief (ERB) or the Officer Record Brief (ORB) further complement the information and purpose outlined in the DA Form 2166 8 1. These briefs provide a snapshot of a service member’s career, including personal data, training, and assignment history. While not a form of evaluation themselves, they contain summarized career information that is often used in conjunction with evaluation forms like the DA Form 2166 8 1 to give a comprehensive view of an individual’s military trajectory, achievements, and areas for development.

The Academic Evaluation Report (AER), found in the context of Army educational programs, mirrors the DA Form 2166 8 1 by evaluating an individual’s performance, albeit in a learning environment. This form assesses a soldier's aptitude, behavior, and overall performance within academic settings, providing insights that complement the broader perspective offered by forms like the DA Form 2166 8 1. Together, they furnish a well-rounded view of an individual's professional and educational development, instrumental for informed decision-making regarding career advancement.

Lastly, the Individual Development Plan (IDP) works in tandem with the insights gleaned from the DA Form 2166 8 1, focusing on the personal and professional growth of soldiers. The IDP is designed to map out career objectives, developmental activities, and training necessary to achieve those goals. It reflects a pragmatic approach to career development, leveraging performance evaluations such as those conducted through the DA Form 2166 8 1 to identify areas for improvement and future career directions, with a strong emphasis on personal initiative and structured planning.

When engaging with the DA Form 2166-8-1, it is crucial to approach the document with thoroughness and attention to detail. This form, central to evaluating Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) within the U.S. Army, requires precision and accuracy. Below are eight guidelines - considerations of do's and don'ts - to help ensure the form is completed properly.

• Do ensure all personal information is accurate and up to date, including the NCO's name, social security number, and contact details. Incorrect information can lead to processing delays or misfiled evaluations.
• Do provide detailed and specific duty descriptions and performance summaries. Vague or generic descriptions do not provide a clear picture of the NCO's capabilities and achievements.
• Do use objective and quantifiable data to support assessments where possible. Metrics and concrete examples lend credibility to the evaluation and help in painting a precise picture of performance.
• Do review the form for completeness and accuracy before submission. Missing or incorrect information can significantly delay the evaluation process.
• Don’t leave any mandatory fields blank. If a section does not apply, note it accordingly to demonstrate that it was not overlooked.
• Don’t use unprofessional or biased language. Evaluations should focus on the performance and attributes of the NCO, remaining objective and fair.
• Don’t disregard privacy considerations. The form contains sensitive information and should be handled according to guidelines for For Official Use Only (FOUO) documents.
• Don’t forget to discuss the evaluation with the NCO. Providing feedback and insight into their performance is crucial for their development and future performance.

Proper attention to these guidelines will not only streamline the evaluation process but also ensure that the NCO receives a fair assessment of their performance and contributions to their unit. Precision and care taken in completing the DA Form 2166-8-1 reflect professionalism and respect for the evaluated NCO's service and career.

When it comes to understanding and filing the DA Form 2166-8-1, commonly known as the NCOER Counseling and Support Form, there are several misconceptions that can create confusion. Clearing up these misunderstandings can streamline the process and ensure that evaluations are both fair and effective. Here are seven common myths about the DA Form 2166-8-1:

• It's only for negative feedback. Contrary to this common belief, the DA Form 2166-8-1 is designed to document both strengths and areas for improvement. It's a tool for setting goals and providing constructive feedback, not just highlighting shortcomings.
• Only the immediate supervisor needs to review it. In reality, this form requires inputs from three levels of review – the Rater, the Senior Rater, and the Reviewer – to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of the NCO's performance.
• Filling out the form is a one-time task. Actually, the DA Form 2166-8-1 should be used regularly, not just at the end of the evaluation period. It’s designed for continuous feedback throughout the rating period to help guide performance.
• There's no need to discuss the content with the rated NCO. This is a misconception, as open communication is key. Discussing the contents of the form provides clarity and allows for a mutual understanding of expectations and performance standards.
• It’s a confidential document. While the information is sensitive, the form is not classified. It’s considered For Official Use Only (FOUO) and should be handled accordingly, ensuring privacy but not secrecy from the rated NCO.
• Electronic signatures aren’t acceptable. Contrary to this belief, electronic signatures are allowed and even encouraged for efficiency. The form can be completed, signed, and stored electronically, in line with Army regulations.
• The form is too complex to fill out without specialized training. Though the form might seem daunting at first, resources and guidance are available. Understanding the instructions and seeking assistance when needed can make the process more manageable.

By debunking these myths, we pave the way for a better understanding of the DA Form 2166-8-1 and its importance in the professional development of NCOs. The form is not just a bureaucratic requirement; it's a critical tool for feedback and growth within the Army's ranks.

Filling out and using the DA Form 2166-8-1, known as the NCOER Counseling and Support Form, is a crucial process for documenting the performance and potential of non-commissioned officers (NCOs) in the U.S. Army. Here are six key takeaways to understand when dealing with this form:

• Importance of Accuracy: Ensure all administrative data in PART I, including the NCO's name, Social Security Number (SSN), rank, and unit, is accurate and up to date. This information is vital for record-keeping and tracking the NCO’s career progression.
• Roles and Responsibilities: The form requires input from multiple parties - the rated NCO, the rater, the senior rater, and the reviewer. Each has a distinct role in evaluating and supporting the NCO's development, making it essential that they understand their responsibilities in this process.
• Detailed Duty Description: PART III asks for a detailed description of the NCO’s duties, including principal duty title, MOSC, and daily responsibilities. This section should provide a clear picture of the NCO's role and the expectations of them within the unit.
• Evaluation of Army Values: PART IV focuses on evaluating the NCO against Army values and attributes such as loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage. It also covers skills and actions, including leadership and responsibility. This evaluation is critical for personal development and for making informed decisions about promotions and assignments.
• Objective and Constructive Feedback: The purpose of the NCOER Counseling and Support Form is not just to assess, but also to guide the NCO in their career development. Feedback should be objective, addressing both strengths and areas for improvement, and should be delivered in a manner that encourages growth and progress.
• Privacy and Confidentiality: Given that the form contains personal and potentially sensitive information, it is labeled for Official Use Only (FOUO) and should be handled accordingly. Respecting the privacy and confidentiality of the information contained within the form is paramount for maintaining trust and professionalism in the evaluation process.

Understanding and adhering to these key points can significantly contribute to the effectiveness of the NCO evaluation process, ultimately aiding in the development of competent, professional, and high-performing non-commissioned officers in the U.S. Army.