Free Da 3439 Form in PDF

Instructions on Writing Da 3439

Filling out the DA 3439 form is a structured process that requires attention to detail to accurately represent your knowledge and opinion of the applicant being considered for a position. This form is used to gather insights from individuals who can provide valuable feedback on a candidate's character, suitability, and qualifications for a position within the Department of the Army's Nonappropriated Fund Instrumentality. The feedback you provide plays a crucial role in the selection process, ensuring that only individuals who meet the high standards required for the role are considered. Here’s how to fill it out step by step:

1. Identify your relationship with the applicant: Indicate how long you have known the applicant and in what capacity by checking the appropriate box and filling in the details asked for in sections 1 and 2.
2. Employment history with the applicant: If you were the applicant's employer or supervisor, provide information about their beginning and last salary, position titles, and the dates (YYYYMMDD) of their employment in the spaces provided.
3. Reason for leaving: If the applicant no longer works in your employ, state the reason for leaving (section 3).
4. Reemployment potential: Indicate whether you would reemploy the applicant in the same position if given the opportunity, and provide reasons if your answer is "no" (section 4).
5. Evaluate the applicant’s soft skills: In the personal appraisal section (number 5), check the box that best represents your experience of the applicant’s dependability, cooperation, initiative and creativeness, sound judgment/ability to adapt under pressure, adaptability, consideration for others, job knowledge, managerial skills, and ability to supervise.
6. Loyalty and conduct: Answer yes or no to questions related to the applicant's loyalty to the United States, and reliability, honesty, trustworthiness, and good conduct and character. Provide details if your answer is "yes" (sections 6 and 7).
7. Remarks: Use the remarks section (number 8) to provide any additional information or explanation for your responses, especially if you answered "yes" to having concerns about the applicant's loyalty, behavior, or associations.
8. Sign and date the form: Ensure you fill in the date (YYYYMMDD) when you are completing the form, your name, the organization, and your position or title before signing it (sections 9, 10, and 11).

Once completed, return the DA 3439 form as soon as possible using the self-addressed envelope provided. Your timely and honest evaluation is essential for a fair assessment of the candidate's suitability for the position in question. Your cooperation in this process is appreciated and plays a vital role in maintaining the integrity and standards of the Department of the Army's programs and positions.

What is the purpose of the DA Form 3439?

The DA Form 3439 is used to inquire into a job applicant’s previous employment history, particularly for positions funded by nonappropriated funds within the Department of the Army. It requests an evaluation of the applicant's performance, conduct, and suitability for the position they're applying for.

Who should complete the DA Form 3439?

The form is typically filled out by someone who knows the applicant well in a professional capacity, such as a previous employer, supervisor, or colleague. The person completing the form should provide candid feedback on the applicant's qualifications, character, and potential for reemployment.

What type of information is required on the form?

Information requested includes the duration and nature of the association with the applicant, their starting and ending salary, reason for leaving the previous position, willingness to reemploy, and a personal appraisal covering various competencies like dependability, cooperation, initiative, and judgment.

Is it mandatory to answer all questions on the form?

Yes, providing complete and accurate information is critical. The form includes specific questions regarding the applicant’s loyalty to the United States, their reliability, honesty, and character. If any question is answered with "yes," further details must be provided in the remarks section.

What should I do if I don’t have sufficient opportunity to observe some of the qualities asked about on the form?

In sections where you lack sufficient observation or knowledge to evaluate the applicant effectively, you should mark the "Insufficient Opportunity to Observe" option. This helps ensure that evaluations are based on factual observations.

How will the information I provide on the DA Form 3439 be used?

The information is used by Department of the Army hiring officials to assess an applicant's suitability and qualifications for a Nonappropriated Fund position. It plays a crucial role in the decision-making process for employment, highlighting the importance of truthful and thorough evaluations.

Will the applicant know that I have completed a DA Form 3439 about them?

Yes, the form explicitly states that the information provided, including the identity of the person giving the reference, will be disclosed to the applicant upon their request. This ensures transparency in the evaluation process.

Is there a deadline for submitting the completed form?

Yes, the requesting authority typically expects the form to be returned promptly. The exact deadline may vary, but promptness is appreciated as it significantly influences the hiring process. A self-addressed envelope is usually provided to facilitate quick return.

Where do I send my completed DA Form 3439?

The completed form should be returned to the Department of the Army office or individual who requested it. The specific address or contact details are generally provided alongside the form itself, often with a pre-addressed envelope requiring no postage for convenience.

Filling out the DA 3439 form, a crucial piece for those seeking employment with Nonappropriated Fund Instrumentality, often comes with its share of pitfalls. First, a common mistake lies in the lack of specificity when detailing the capacity in which the applicant is known. The form requires clear indication of the relationship—be it supervisor, employer, fellow employee, acquaintance, or another specified relation. However, many rush through this section, offering vague responses that fail to adequately frame their relationship with the applicant.

Another frequent oversight is failing to provide complete information on employment history, particularly in the fields requesting the beginning and last salary, and position titles along with dates. This can severely limit the employer's ability to gauge the applicant's experience and progression in their career. Additionally, some mistakenly leave the section on reasons for the applicant's departure from previous employment blank. This vital piece of information can speak volumes about the applicant's work ethic and reliability, hence its importance cannot be overstressed.

Respondents often stumble when it comes to the personal appraisal section as well. It's here that one's opinion about the applicant's dependability, cooperation, initiative, and other crucial traits are shared. An all-too-common error is providing generic, non-committal answers rather than thoughtful evaluations. This robs the potential employer of insights that could be instrumental in making an employment decision. Furthermore, skipping sections or checking boxes without accompanying remarks, especially in areas requiring elaboration on "yes" responses, severely impairs the form’s integrity and its role in the hiring process.

Underestimating the importance of the section that inquiries about the applicant's loyalty to the United States, reliability, honesty, and good conduct is another misstep. Some respondents might neglect to provide detailed remarks when their answer is "yes," fearing repercussions or believing it to be unnecessary. Yet, these queries are critical for understanding the character of the person in question and should be answered with diligence and sincerity.

Perhaps one of the more technical yet significant errors involves incorrect or imprecise date formatting. Given the military's preference for the YYYYMMDD format, deviations can lead to confusion or the impression of carelessness. Additionally, omitting the name of the organization or providing an unclear title or position in the signature section can cast doubts on the verifier’s credibility, potentially undermining the applicant’s chances. Finally, overlooking the opportunity to add remarks can be a lost opportunity to provide additional insights or context that could benefit the applicant's evaluation.

In summary, while completing the DA 3439 form may seem straightforward, attention to detail and an understanding of the form’s intent and requirements are paramount. An accurate, thorough, and thoughtful completion of this document not only reflects well on the applicant but assists those responsible for making crucial hiring decisions.

When completing or accompanying the DA Form 3439, Nonappropriated Fund Instrumentality Employment Inquiry, a range of other documents may need to be provided or considered to ensure a comprehensive assessment of the candidate. This holistic approach aids in making informed employment decisions. The following list outlines forms and documents frequently used in conjunction with the DA 3439 form, each serving a specific purpose in the evaluation process.

• Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV): Provides a detailed overview of the candidate's education, work experience, skills, and accomplishments. It's a cornerstone document that complements the DA 3439 form, offering a broader perspective on the applicant's background and qualifications.
• DA Form 3433, Optional Application for Nonappropriated Fund Employment: This application form gathers personal and professional information, serving as an initial screening tool. It includes data crucial for further processing and evaluating the applicant's suitability for the position.
• Letters of Recommendation: Offer insights into the candidate’s performance, character, and potential from previous supervisors or colleagues. These letters supplement the DA 3439 form by providing qualitative evaluations of the applicant's capabilities and work ethic.
• Background Check Authorization Form: Authorizes the employer to conduct a comprehensive background check, including criminal history, employment verification, and education verification. This form is vital for positions requiring high levels of trust and responsibility.
• Drug Test Consent Form: Some positions may require candidates to consent to drug testing. This form demonstrates the applicant’s agreement to undergo such testing, ensuring compliance with workplace policies regarding substance abuse.
• Official Transcripts or Certifications: For positions requiring specific educational qualifications or certifications, official transcripts or copies of certifications provide verification of the candidate’s credentials, complementing the information provided in the DA 3439 form.

Together, these documents create a comprehensive profile of the applicant, enabling a more informed decision-making process. The completion and submission of the DA 3439 and its accompanying documents are critical steps toward securing employment within the Department of the Army's Nonappropriated Fund Instrumentality sectors. This process underscores the importance of thoroughness and accuracy in evaluating potential employees, ensuring that only the most qualified and capable individuals are selected for these significant roles.

The SF-86, or Standard Form 86, is known as the Questionnaire for National Security Positions. Similar to the DA Form 3439, the SF-86 also collects detailed personal information from applicants to evaluate their suitability for a position that requires security clearance. Both forms ask for personal references and employment history to assess character, trustworthiness, and reliability. While the DA Form 3439 is used within the Department of the Army for nonappropriated fund instrumentality positions, the SF-86 has a broader scope, serving various federal agencies to evaluate individuals for security-sensitive roles.

The I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification form, is another document that, like the DA Form 3439, is used to verify the eligibility of individuals to work in the United States. Both forms require personal information from the applicant; however, the I-9 focuses specifically on verifying the individual's legal right to work in the U.S. through documentation. The DA Form 3439, in contrast, is more concerned with assessing an individual's suitability for employment based on past work performance and personal character.

Form W-4, Employee's Withholding Certificate, although primarily used for tax purposes, shares a connection with the DA Form 3439 in that both are integral to the hiring process. The W-4 is filled out by employees to determine the amount of federal income tax to withhold from their paychecks. Like the DA Form 3439, it is completed by individuals who are commencing employment, but the W-4's focus is on tax withholding preferences rather than assessing employment suitability.

The Background Check Authorization Form is widely used by employers to gain consent from job applicants to conduct a background check. This form and the DA Form 3439 share the common goal of gathering adequate information to evaluate an individual’s background before making a hiring decision. Both forms concern themselves with the character and trustworthiness of the applicant, though the Background Check Authorization Form serves as a consent form for investigation, while the DA Form 3439 collects assessments directly from references.

Performance Evaluation Forms, utilized by employers to review their employee's job performance, share similarities with the DA Form 3439, especially in the sections that assess an individual's skills, dependability, and cooperation. Both forms can play a role in decision-making about promotions or continued employment. While the Performance Evaluation Forms are used for current employees, the DA Form 3439 gathers similar information but from previous employers or supervisors to evaluate a candidate for potential employment.

The Occupational Questionnaire, often used by federal agencies during the hiring process, is similar to the DA Form 3439 as it collects information on the applicant's experiences, skills, and competencies. Both forms aim to ascertain the suitability of a candidate for a specific role, focusing on how their background aligns with job requirements. The Occupational Questionnaire, however, tends to be more about the candidate’s self-assessment in relation to specific job tasks, compared to the DA Form 3439’s focus on third-party evaluations.

The Reference Check Form is closely related to the DA Form 3439 since both involve collecting information from references to assess an applicant's suitability for a position. The DA Form 3439, specifically, is a detailed inquiry into the applicant’s job performance and character through a structured format. In contrast, Reference Check Forms can vary in format but serve the same purpose of gaining insights from past employers or professional acquaintances about the candidate’s qualifications and work ethic.

Lastly, the Exit Interview Form, typically used when an employee is leaving an organization, contrasts with the DA Form 3439 in purpose but is similar in that it evaluates employee attributes and performance. While the Exit Interview focuses on the reasons for departure and suggestions for improvement from the exiting employee’s perspective, the DA Form 3439 seeks to understand an individual’s performance and conduct from a third-party viewpoint before hiring. Both forms contribute valuable insights into an individual’s work behavior and ethics.

When filling out the DA 3439 form, which is crucial for employment in Nonappropriated Fund Instrumentality positions, it's essential to approach the task with care and precision. Here are the key dos and don'ts to guide you through the process.

• Do read the instructions carefully before beginning to fill out the form to ensure you understand the requirements and the type of information you need to provide.
• Do verify the accuracy of all dates and information you provide, especially when detailing your association with the applicant, to ensure there are no mistakes.
• Do provide honest and thorough responses to the personal appraisal section. Your candid evaluation is critical in assessing the applicant’s suitability for the position.
• Do take your time to reflect on the questions that require detailed answers, such as the applicant's loyalty to the United States, to provide thoughtful and considered responses.
• Do double-check your responses for completeness and accuracy before sending the form. This includes making sure all applicable blocks are checked and all supplemental remarks are included.
• Don't leave sections blank if they are applicable. If a question does not apply, it's better to indicate this with a "N/A" or similar notation rather than leaving it empty.
• Don't rush through filling out the form. Inaccuracies or incomplete information could lead to misunderstandings or could potentially disqualify the applicant because of missing or incorrect information.
• Don't forget to sign and date the form. Your signature validates the information you have provided, and the date helps to contextualize your responses.
• Don't disregard the importance of your feedback. Remember, your evaluation plays a significant role in the hiring process, so consider your answers carefully.

Fulfilling your role in completing the DA 3439 form with diligence and attention to detail not only aids in selecting qualified individuals but also ensures the integrity and effectiveness of the programs administered by the Department of the Army.

Misconception 1: The DA Form 3439 Is Only for Military Personnel

Many assume that the DA Form 3439 is exclusively for individuals in the military. However, this form is designated for employment inquiries related to Nonappropriated Fund Instrumentality (NAFI) positions. The purpose is to gather information about a candidate’s past employment and personal attributes, which are crucial for civilian positions within the Army's NAFI establishments. These roles can range from retail to recreational services within the military community, not directly engaging in active military duties.

Misconception 2: The Form Does Not Address Personal Qualities

Contrary to some beliefs, the DA Form 3439 goes beyond simple employment history. It includes a section dedicated to a personal appraisal of characteristics like dependability, cooperation, and adaptability. This section underscores the importance of not only professional skills but also interpersonal and soft skills in determining a candidate's eligibility for NAF positions. The thorough evaluation helps ensure individuals are well-rounded and possess the personal qualities necessary for the role.

Misconception 3: References’ Information Is Confidential and Not Disclosed to Applicants

A common misconception is that the information provided by references on the DA Form 3439 remains confidential and will not be disclosed to the applicant. On the contrary, the form explicitly states that the information, including the identity of the reference, can be disclosed to the applicant upon request. This policy supports transparency and allows applicants to understand fully how their qualifications and character are perceived by former employers or colleagues.

Misconception 4: The Form Is Comprehensive and Does Not Require Additional Verification

While the DA Form 3439 is detailed, assuming that it alone provides a comprehensive view of an applicant’s background is misguided. The form serves as a crucial step in the evaluation process, but it is part of a broader set of checks and assessments. This may include background checks, additional references, interviews, and other verifications necessary to ensure a candidate's suitability and adherence to the high standards expected of NAFI employees. The form helps to gauge professional and personal capabilities, but it is within a suite of tools used to make informed hiring decisions.

Understanding the DA 3439 form is essential for anyone involved in the hiring process for positions within the Department of the Army's Nonappropriated Fund Instrumentality (NAFI). Here are six key takeaways about filling out and using this form:

• Accuracy is crucial: Provide truthful and accurate information about your experience and relationship with the applicant. Your input directly influences the hiring decision, making the integrity of your responses vital.
• Comprehensive evaluation: The form is designed to evaluate a candidate from multiple perspectives, including dependability, cooperation, initiative, judgment under pressure, adaptability, and consideration for others. This thorough appraisal ensures a well-rounded view of the candidate’s capabilities and personality.
• Confidentiality: The information you provide on the DA 3439 form, including your identity, may be disclosed to the applicant upon request. Being aware of this possibility encourages honesty while also highlighting the importance of being respectful and professional in your assessment.
• Responsibility and loyalty: Questions about the applicant's loyalty to the United States and their conduct and character are included to ensure that selected individuals are fully qualified and have personal characteristics that are beyond reproach. This underscores the significance of the roles being filled and the trust placed in employees.
• Managerial and job-specific skills: If applicable, the form asks for an evaluation of the candidate’s managerial skills and job knowledge. This information helps the hiring team to understand if the candidate possesses the necessary skills and knowledge for the position they are being considered for.
• Remarks section: The remarks section is an important part of the form that allows you to provide additional context or details that might not be fully captured by the checklist. This can include explanations for a "No" response to reemployment questions, elaboration on the candidate’s strengths, or any concerns.

Filling out the DA 3439 form with thoughtfulness and care can significantly impact an applicant's chances of being selected for a position. Your insights help to ensure that the Department of the Army employs individuals who are not only skilled and capable but also of high moral character and loyalty.