DA Form 7517: Child/Spouse Abuse Incident Report PDF – If you’re a U.S. Army Soldier, spouse, or family member dealing with concerns about child or spouse abuse, understanding official Army procedures is critical. One key document in the process is DA Form 7517, officially titled the DA Child/Spouse Abuse Incident Report. This form plays a vital role in the Army’s Family Advocacy Program (FAP) by documenting substantiated incidents for tracking, treatment planning, and Army-wide statistics.
In this comprehensive guide, we break down exactly what DA Form 7517 is, when it’s used, who completes it, and how it fits into the broader Army response to family violence. We also provide the official download link and trusted resources for U.S. Army families.
What Is DA Form 7517?
DA Form 7517 is the official U.S. Army form used to report and record incidents of child abuse or spouse abuse. Its full title is DA CHILD/SPOUSE ABUSE INCIDENT REPORT.
- Current version: DA FORM 7517, JAN 2026 (previous editions are obsolete).
- Governing regulation: Army Regulation (AR) 608-18, The Army Family Advocacy Program (effective 30 November 2007 and still the current authority).
- Proponent: Deputy Chief of Staff, G-1 (DCS, G-1).
- Purpose (per Privacy Act statement): To provide essential background information to develop a service plan for each child and family involved in emergency placement and to transmit case data to the Army Central Registry (ACR).
The form collects detailed administrative, sponsor, victim, and alleged offender information, along with the Case Review Committee (CRC) determination of whether the allegation is substantiated or unsubstantiated.
Important note: If the case is determined to be unsubstantiated, the form instructs: “IF UNSUBSTANTIATED STOP!! GO NO FURTHER.” Identifying information is not retained in the ACR for unsubstantiated cases.
Why DA Form 7517 Matters in the Army Family Advocacy Program (FAP)?
The Army Family Advocacy Program (FAP) is the Department of the Army’s primary system for prevention, identification, reporting, investigation, and treatment of child abuse and domestic/spouse abuse. DA Form 7517 serves as the official transmission document from installation-level FAP offices to the centralized Army Central Registry.
Key functions of the form include:
- Tracking substantiated cases for statistical analysis and trend monitoring.
- Supporting background checks (e.g., for child care providers, drill sergeants, recruiters).
- Enabling coordinated treatment and safety planning.
- Ensuring compliance with DoD Directive 6400.1 and federal victim rights laws.
Only authorized FAP staff and Case Review Committee members complete and submit DA Form 7517—typically within 10 working days after the CRC makes its determination.
The FAP Reporting and Investigation Process (Step-by-Step)
- Initial Report — Anyone can (and mandated reporters must) report suspected abuse to the installation Reporting Point of Contact (RPOC), FAP office, law enforcement, medical personnel, or command.
- Investigation — Coordinated by FAP, law enforcement, and Child Protective Services as needed.
- Case Review Committee (CRC) — Multidisciplinary team reviews evidence and determines if the incident meets criteria for abuse (substantiated) or not.
- DA Form 7517 Completion — If substantiated (or in specific cases), the form is filled out with full details and forwarded to the ACR.
- Service Plan & Follow-Up — Safety planning, treatment referrals, and monitoring begin.
Note: This form is not the initial reporting tool for victims or witnesses. Victims should reach out directly to FAP or a Domestic Abuse Victim Advocate (DAVA) for support and options (including restricted vs. unrestricted reporting where applicable).
Overview of Key Sections on DA Form 7517
The two-page fillable form is organized into clear sections:
- Section I – Administrative Data: Case number, installation/MTF code, date reported, type of victim (child or spouse), fatality indicator, maltreatment type (physical, sexual, emotional, neglect), offender-victim relationship (intrafamilial or extrafamilial), and CRC determination (substantiated/unsubstantiated details, investigations conducted, protective actions taken).
- Section II – Sponsor Information: Sponsor’s SSN, name, role (alleged offender, neither, victim), branch of service, component, and rank/pay grade.
- Section III – Victim Information: Victim’s FMP/SSN, name, birthdate, sex, race/ethnicity, alcohol/drug involvement, disability status, and more.
- Section IV – Alleged Offender Information: Similar demographic and relationship details for the alleged offender(s), including number of second offenders.
- Section V – Authenticating Official: Signature and authentication by the appropriate FAP or medical authority.
The form emphasizes privacy protections under the Privacy Act and limits routine uses to authorized government agencies, counseling services, and law enforcement coordination.
How to Download DA Form 7517 PDF? (Official Army Source)
Official fillable PDF (JAN 2026 version):
Download DA Form 7517 Here
This is the most current version available directly from the Army Publishing Directorate (armypubs.army.mil). Always use the official source to ensure you have the latest form.
Note: This form is for official use by authorized Army personnel. Family members or Soldiers seeking help should contact their local FAP office rather than attempting to complete it themselves.
Additional Resources for U.S. Army Families (Confidential Help Available 24/7)
- Military OneSource – 1-800-342-9647 or MilitaryOneSource.mil (free confidential counseling, DAVA locator, and FAP information).
- National Domestic Violence Hotline – 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE) or text “START” to 88788.
- Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline – 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453).
- Local Installation FAP – Search “Army Community Service Family Advocacy Program” + your installation name, or contact the ACS/Family Advocacy Program Manager (FAPM).
- Army FAP Prevention Programs – Free parenting classes, relationship skills training, and New Parent Support Program available at most installations.
Safety first: If you or your children are in immediate danger, call 911 or your installation emergency services.
Frequently Asked Questions About DA Form 7517
Who fills out DA Form 7517?
Primarily FAP staff and CRC members after a formal investigation and case review.
Is the form public or fillable by anyone?
No. It is an internal Army document protected by the Privacy Act.
Does a substantiated DA Form 7517 affect my career?
It may trigger command notification and administrative or legal actions depending on the circumstances. However, FAP also provides treatment and support services to both victims and offenders.
How long does information stay in the Army Central Registry?
Substantiated cases are retained per AR 25-400-2 and DoD policy; unsubstantiated cases have identifying information removed.
Take Action Today
The Army is committed to the safety and well-being of every Soldier and family member. DA Form 7517 is one important tool in that mission, ensuring incidents are properly documented and families receive the support they need.
If you need help right now:
- Contact your local Army Family Advocacy Program office.
- Call Military OneSource at 1-800-342-9647.
- Or visit the official download link above for authorized personnel.
Remember: Seeking help is a sign of strength. The Army Family Advocacy Program exists to protect and support you.
Stay safe, stay informed, and reach out for support when you need it. U.S. Army families are never alone.