DA Form 4250: DA Certificate of Retirement Guide (2026) – DA Form 4250, officially titled the DA Certificate of Retirement, is a formal document issued by the United States Army. It recognizes the dedicated service of Army personnel—primarily civilian employees—upon their retirement.
The form has been active since July 1, 1974, with the G-1 (Personnel) as its proponent. It is prescribed by AR 672-20 (Incentive Awards) and AR 215-3 (Nonappropriated Funds Personnel Policy). It is classified as a sensitive but unclassified form (Distribution Restriction Code A: approved for public release).
It often accompanies a retirement pin and may be presented alongside other certificates, such as DA Form 4251 (Certificate of Appreciation) or OPM Form WPS 111 (Retirement Certificate).
Who Needs the DA Certificate of Retirement?
DA Form 4250 primarily serves Army civilian employees, including those in Nonappropriated Fund (NAF) positions. It honors their years of federal service to the Army upon retirement.
- Civilian employees retiring from appropriated fund (APF) or NAF positions.
- Local national (LN) employees in certain overseas commands.
- It may be referenced in military contexts but functions as a civilian recognition tool.
Eligibility typically requires meeting retirement criteria under applicable personnel regulations, such as years of service and age requirements outlined in AR 215-3 or related policies.
Purpose and Importance of DA Form 4250
This certificate serves several key purposes:
- Official Recognition: It formally acknowledges the retiree’s contributions, dedication, and service to the U.S. Army.
- Keepsake and Symbol of Honor: Many recipients frame it as a tangible reminder of their career achievements.
- Retirement Ceremony Component: It is often presented during formal retirement events, sometimes with a pin or flag.
- Documentation: It supports post-retirement processes and provides a record of honorable service.
For NAF employees, it is commonly issued with a Certificate of Appreciation and encased in a folder.
How to Obtain and Use DA Form 4250?
Eligibility and Process
- Confirm eligibility through your servicing Human Resources office or retirement coordinator, referencing AR 672-20 and AR 215-3.
- During retirement planning, the appropriate authority (often the commander or HR) prepares or requests the certificate.
- It is issued as part of retirement recognition, frequently alongside other awards or certificates.
The form is not typically self-filled by the retiree; it is prepared officially. Fillable versions or blanks may be available through Army publishing channels for administrative use.
Note: Active duty military retirement certificates often use different forms (e.g., DD Form 363 series). DA Form 4250 focuses on civilian service.
Where to Find the Official DA Form 4250?
- Army Publishing Directorate (APD): The authoritative source for the form details and any associated publications.
- Unit or installation HR/Personnel offices.
- Army forms repositories for authorized users.
Always use official channels to ensure compliance with current Army regulations.
Related Forms and Awards
- DA Form 4251: DA Certificate of Appreciation.
- OPM Form WPS 111: Retirement Certificate (often used in conjunction).
- Other service awards (e.g., Civilian Service medals) may accompany the retirement package.
Retirement Recognition for Army Civilians
The DA Certificate of Retirement highlights the Army’s commitment to honoring its civilian workforce. Whether you are approaching retirement or assisting a colleague, understanding this form ensures a smooth and respectful transition. Consult your local HR or retirement services for personalized guidance based on your specific situation and current regulations.
For the most up-to-date information, visit the official Army Publishing Directorate website or contact your installation’s personnel office.