DA Form 4908: Army Emergency Relief Campaign 2026 – DA Form 4908 is the official Army Emergency Relief Annual Fund Campaign pledge form used by the U.S. Army. It allows Active Duty Soldiers, Retired Soldiers, and eligible civilians to make donations to Army Emergency Relief (AER) through cash, check, or payroll allotment.
The form serves as both a pledge document and a receipt. It supports the annual campaign that educates Soldiers and Families about AER programs while encouraging voluntary contributions. AER operates as the official nonprofit of the U.S. Army, providing financial assistance since 1942 under the motto “Soldiers Helping Soldiers.”
Download the official DA Form 4908 here: https://armypubs.army.mil/pub/eforms/DR_a/ARN45439-DA_FORM_4908-000-EFILE-1.pdf
What Is Army Emergency Relief (AER)?
Army Emergency Relief is a private, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to helping Soldiers, Retired Soldiers, their Families, and Survivors overcome financial hardships. AER provides zero-interest loans and grants for emergency needs, scholarships, and enduring support programs.
Key facts about AER:
- It has supported millions of Soldiers and Families for over 84 years.
- Funds come primarily from voluntary donations by the Army community.
- AER maintains a strong focus on financial stability and readiness.
Donations to AER are tax-deductible for eligible contributors.
Who Can Use DA Form 4908 and Who Benefits from AER?
Eligible donors and recipients include:
- Active Duty Soldiers (Regular Army) and their eligible dependents.
- Retired Soldiers (longevity, medical, or Reserve Component at age 60) and dependents.
- Army National Guard and Reserve Soldiers on Title 10 orders for more than 30 consecutive days.
- Surviving spouses (who have not remarried) and children of deceased Soldiers.
AER assistance covers a wide range of emergency needs, including rent, utilities, food, emergency travel, funeral expenses, medical/dental costs not covered by TRICARE, disaster recovery, and more. Applications are typically processed through local AER offices or online.
2026 AER Annual Fund Campaign Details
The 2026 AER Annual Campaign runs from March 1 through June 14 (the U.S. Army’s 251st Birthday). Its dual purpose is education about available programs and fundraising through voluntary donations.
Installations compete for recognition based on participation rates and funds raised (including AAFES contributions). Commanders and AER representatives distribute information and forms like DA Form 4908 to reach 100% of assigned personnel.
How to Fill Out and Submit DA Form 4908?
Filling out DA Form 4908 is straightforward. Key sections typically include:
- Contributor Information: Name, grade/rank, SSN (for allotments), unit/organization.
- Donation Type: Cash, check, or allotment (payroll deduction).
- Amount: One-time contribution or monthly allotment amount and duration (e.g., 3, 6, or 9 months).
- Signature and Date.
Submission process:
- Obtain the form from your unit AER representative or download it officially.
- Complete the details and choose your donation method.
- Turn in the form to your unit key person or AER coordinator.
- Keep Copy 1 as your receipt (tax-deductible).
For payroll allotments, the form initiates a DFAS deduction. Cash/check donations are processed securely. Many installations also offer online donation options via the official AER website.
Ways to Donate to AER Beyond the Campaign?
While the annual campaign uses DA Form 4908, you can support AER year-round:
- Online donations at armyemergencyrelief.org/donate (one-time or recurring).
- Payroll allotment (even outside campaign periods via proper channels).
- Direct contributions through unit representatives or AER offices.
Donations directly fund emergency assistance and scholarships, strengthening the Army community.
Why Your Donation to AER Matters?
Every contribution helps maintain readiness by preventing financial distress from affecting mission performance. AER assistance is often provided as grants or zero-interest loans, with a strong emphasis on repayment where possible to sustain the fund for future needs.
By participating via DA Form 4908 or online, U.S. Army Soldiers and supporters embody the spirit of “Soldiers Helping Soldiers” and ensure the program remains available for generations to come.
Ready to contribute? Download DA Form 4908, visit your local AER office, or donate securely online today. Your support makes a direct impact on Army Families in need.