DA Form 3161: Request for Issue or Turn-In Guide (PDF)

DA Form 3161: Request for Issue or Turn-In Guide (PDF) – DA Form 3161, officially titled Request for Issue or Turn-In, is a key U.S. Army document used for managing military property, equipment, and supplies. It supports requests for new items (issue), returns (turn-in), lateral transfers, and related supply transactions. This form is governed by procedures in DA PAM 710-2-1 (Using Unit Supply System – Manual Procedures).

It ensures proper accountability, inventory control, and documentation for Army units, helping maintain readiness and compliance with Army supply regulations.

Download the official DA Form 3161 here: https://armypubs.army.mil/pub/eforms/DR_a/ARN40115-DA_FORM_3161-001-EFILE-2.pdf

What Is DA Form 3161 Used For?

The primary purpose of DA Form 3161 is to request the issue of supplies and equipment or to turn in items to a supply support activity (SSA), Self-Service Supply Center (SSSC), or other authorized entity.

Common uses include:

  • Requesting issuance of expendable or non-expendable items (especially when 10+ line items are needed or SSSC is unavailable).
  • Documenting turn-ins of serviceable or unserviceable property.
  • Facilitating lateral transfers between units.
  • Supporting temporary loans or property adjustments.
  • Managing specific items like medical supplies, rations, or field equipment.

It serves as both a request document and a receipt/acknowledgment form once processed.

Key Features of DA Form 3161

  • Dual Purpose Design — Check “Issue” or “Turn-In” at the top.
  • Multi-Sheet Capability — Use continuation sheets (DA Form 3161-1) for longer lists.
  • Detailed Item Tracking — Includes stock numbers, descriptions, quantities, and condition.
  • Accountability Fields — Requires signatures, dates, and supply action confirmations.
  • Compliance Reference — References DA PAM 710-2-1 for procedural guidance.

The current version (August 2011 or later editions) remains active for Army use.

How to Fill Out DA Form 3161 Step-by-Step?

Filling out the form correctly prevents delays in supply processing. Always refer to the latest DA PAM 710-2-1 for your specific situation.

Basic Steps:

  1. Check Issue or Turn-In — Mark the appropriate box at the top.
  2. Sheet Numbering — Enter the current sheet number and total sheets.
  3. Request/Voucher Numbers — Assign or reference as required locally.
  4. Send To / Request From — Include unit details, DODAAC, UIC, and point of contact.
  5. Date Material Required — Use YYYYMMDD format.
  6. Priority — Enter the appropriate priority designator.
  7. Accounting/Funding Data — Provide necessary fund codes or data.
  8. Item Details (Columns) — Stock number (NSN), description/nomenclature, unit of issue, quantity requested/turned in, etc.
  9. Supply Action — The issuing or receiving supply personnel completes quantities issued/received, dates, and signatures.
  10. Signatures — Requester and receiver sign as appropriate in designated blocks.

For detailed block-by-block instructions, consult official Army publications or unit supply SOPs. Overprinted versions are authorized for recurring requests.

Pro Tip: Use electronic fillable PDFs for legibility and accuracy. Always prepare sufficient copies per local policy.

Who Uses DA Form 3161?

  • Unit Supply Sergeants and Clerks (e.g., 92Y MOS).
  • Property Book Officers (PBOs).
  • Hand Receipt Holders.
  • Medical and dining facility personnel for specific supply classes.
  • Units conducting lateral transfers or turn-ins to SSA/CIF.

It is widely used across Active Duty, National Guard, and Reserve components for day-to-day logistics.

Best Practices and Common Mistakes

  • Do double-check NSNs and quantities for accuracy.
  • Do separate forms for different item classes (e.g., hazardous materials, controlled substances).
  • Do not mix issue and turn-in on the same form unless authorized.
  • Do maintain copies for unit records and audits.
  • Coordinate with the supporting SSA or PBO before submission for time-sensitive requests.

Proper use supports efficient supply chain operations and helps avoid discrepancies during inventories or inspections.

  • DA Form 3161-1 — Continuation sheet.
  • DA Form 2062 — Hand Receipt/Annex.
  • DA Form 4949 — Administrative Adjustment Report.
  • DD Form 1348-6 — For certain non-NSN requests.
  • DA Form 1687 — Delegation of Authority for receipt of supplies.

Why Proper Use of DA Form 3161 Matters?

Accurate completion of DA Form 3161 ensures soldiers receive needed equipment on time, excess property is properly accounted for, and units maintain strong property accountability. This directly impacts mission readiness and regulatory compliance.

For the most current guidance, visit official Army Publishing Directorate resources or consult your unit’s supply chain experts. Always use the latest form version from armypubs.army.mil.

Download Official DA Form 3161: PDF Link

This article is for informational purposes and is based on publicly available U.S. Army resources. Policies may vary by unit or command—verify with official sources.