DA Form 2590: File Formal Discrimination Complaint (Army) – DA Form 2590 is the official U.S. Army form used by Department of the Army civilian employees, former employees, applicants for federal employment, and certain contract employees to file a formal complaint of discrimination. It addresses allegations based on protected categories including race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, genetic information, physical or mental disability, and/or reprisal for prior protected EEO activity.
The form is governed by Army Regulation (AR) 690-600, Equal Employment Opportunity Discrimination Complaints, and aligns with federal EEO laws under the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). It serves as the key document to initiate the formal phase of the Army’s EEO complaint process after informal counseling.
Download the current DA Form 2590 here: https://armypubs.army.mil/pub/eforms/DR_a/ARN41422-DA_FORM_2590-001-EFILE-1.pdf (July 2024 edition; previous editions are obsolete).
Who Can File a DA Form 2590 Complaint?
Eligible filers include:
- Current Department of the Army civilian employees
- Former Army civilian employees
- Applicants for Army civilian positions
- Certain contract employees (as specified in regulations)
The complaint must involve discrimination or retaliation in federal employment-related matters. Military personnel typically use different processes (such as EO complaints under AR 600-20).
Key Protected Bases for Discrimination Complaints
On DA Form 2590 (Section I, Block 9), you check all applicable bases and specify details:
- Race or Color
- Sex (including male/female, sexual harassment, pregnancy, gender identity)
- Age
- National Origin
- Religion
- Genetic Information
- Physical or Mental Disability
- Reprisal (retaliation for prior EEO activity)
You must provide specific factual details for each basis alleged.
The Army EEO Complaint Process: Informal to Formal
The process generally follows these steps:
- Pre-Complaint/Informal Phase: Contact an EEO Counselor within 45 calendar days of the alleged discriminatory incident (or effective date of a personnel action). Counseling aims for resolution, often including Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)/mediation.
- Notice of Right to File: If unresolved, the EEO Counselor issues a Notice of Right to File a Formal Complaint (typically after a final interview).
- Formal Complaint: File DA Form 2590 within 15 calendar days of receiving the Notice. This is a strict deadline, though extensions may be granted for good cause.
- Acceptance/Dismissal: The EEO Office reviews for timeliness, jurisdiction, and sufficiency. Accepted complaints proceed to investigation.
- Investigation and Resolution: This includes an investigation report, possible hearing before an EEOC Administrative Judge, and a final agency decision. Further appeals or civil action options exist.
Important Time Limits:
- Informal contact: 45 days
- Formal filing: 15 days after Notice
- Appeals and civil suits have their own deadlines (e.g., 90 days for federal court in many cases)
How to Complete and File DA Form 2590 (Step-by-Step)?
Section I – Complaint Information (completed by the complainant):
- Personal details (name, SSN, contact info, employment status)
- Specific bases of discrimination with detailed explanation of “when and how” (include dates, names, incidents; use additional sheets if needed)
- Organization and location where discrimination occurred
- EEO Counselor details and dates
- Choice of representative (attorney, non-attorney, or none)
- Relief sought (specific corrective actions desired)
- Other details (witnesses, prior appeals/grievances)
Sign and date the form.
Filing Options:
- Submit to your servicing Army EEO Office (preferred)
- In person, mail, or as directed in the Notice
- Provide a copy to the EEO Office even if filed elsewhere
Section II is completed by the EEO Officer for processing, docketing, acceptance/dismissal, etc.
Tip: Be clear, factual, and specific. Vague complaints risk dismissal for failure to prosecute.
What Happens After Filing DA Form 2590?
- Acknowledgment and docket number assignment
- Review for acceptance (partial or full)
- Investigation (complainant and witnesses interviewed)
- Report of Investigation provided to complainant
- Options for hearing or final decision
- Potential remedies if discrimination is found (back pay, reinstatement, training, policy changes, etc.)
The Army aims to process complaints efficiently while protecting rights under federal law.
Rights and Protections for Complainants
- Right to a representative at all stages (at your expense unless otherwise provided)
- Protection against retaliation (reprisal is itself a basis for complaint)
- Access to the investigative file and hearing
- Appeal rights to EEOC or federal court
Filing is voluntary, but incomplete information may lead to dismissal. All information is handled per Privacy Act rules.
Common Issues and Tips for Success
- Meet all deadlines strictly
- Document everything (keep copies of notices, correspondence, and evidence)
- Seek assistance from an EEO Counselor or qualified representative early
- Clearly state the specific employment actions (e.g., non-selection, harassment, denial of accommodation)
- Consider mediation/ADR for faster resolution
For the most current guidance, consult your local Army EEO Office or review AR 690-600 directly.
Ready to proceed? Download the official form: DA Form 2590 PDF
This article provides general information based on official Army sources and is not legal advice. For personalized assistance, contact your servicing EEO Office or a qualified EEO counselor/attorney.