VA Form FL-10-294: WOC Personnel Authorization Guide

VA Form FL-10-294: WOC Personnel Authorization Guide – VA Form FL-10-294, officially known as the WOC Personnel Authorization or Letter of Authorization, is a critical document used by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). It formally authorizes individuals to serve in Without Compensation (WOC) positions. These appointments allow qualified people to contribute their skills at VA facilities without receiving salary or benefits directly from the VA.

The form sets forth the specific terms of utilization, including the nature of the assignment, duration, and conditions of service. Once signed by the appointee and countersigned by the appropriate Human Resources official, it becomes the official record of the WOC appointment.

You can download the official current version of the form directly from the VA website: VA Form FL-10-294 PDF Download.

Understanding Without Compensation (WOC) Appointments

A Without Compensation (WOC) appointment is a formal VA status granted to individuals who perform work or training at VA facilities but are not paid by the VA. WOC personnel are still considered Federal employees for many legal and administrative purposes, including certain liability protections and, in applicable cases, coverage under Federal workers’ compensation laws.

WOC appointments are authorized under 38 U.S.C. § 7405 and related provisions in VA Handbook 5005 (Staffing). They are widely used for:

  • Health professions trainees and students completing clinical rotations
  • Nursing, allied health, pharmacy, psychology, social work, and other professional students
  • Research personnel affiliated with academic institutions or VA non-profit corporations
  • Unpaid interns, fellows, and residents in certain programs
  • Qualified volunteers and visiting scientists contributing to VA missions

These appointments support the VA’s dual mission of providing high-quality care to Veterans while training the next generation of healthcare professionals and advancing medical research.

Who Needs to Complete VA Form FL-10-294?

Anyone accepting a Without Compensation appointment at a VA medical center, research facility, or related program typically receives and must sign VA Form FL-10-294. Common groups include:

  • Unpaid allied health and nursing trainees
  • Medical, dental, and other health professions students on clinical rotations
  • Research staff employed by academic affiliates or VA non-profit corporations who need VA appointment status to access facilities, systems, or protocols
  • Certain volunteers whose services are accepted under specific authorities

Facility directors may adapt the form into a mass-action document when large groups of students are appointed at the same time, provided the basic content and legal requirements are retained.

Key Information Contained in the Form

VA Form FL-10-294 (revised October 2000) typically includes:

  • Identification of the appointee and the position or training assignment
  • The service or department where the individual will serve
  • The period of the appointment
  • A clear statement that no monetary compensation will be provided by the VA
  • Conditions of service, expectations, and any applicable limitations
  • Signature blocks for the appointee and the authorizing VA Human Resources official

By signing the form, the individual acknowledges and agrees to the stated terms of the WOC appointment.

How to Obtain and Complete VA Form FL-10-294?

The form is normally issued by the VA facility’s Human Resources Management Service or the education/training coordinator as part of the formal appointment process. It is not usually completed by the individual independently before selection.

Typical steps in the process include:

  1. Selection or acceptance into a VA training, research, or volunteer program
  2. Issuance of the completed FL-10-294 by the facility
  3. Review and signature by the appointee
  4. Countersignature by the designated HR official
  5. Filing of the original and provision of a copy to the individual

Always use the official version available on the VA website: Download VA Form FL-10-294.

Related Forms and Onboarding Requirements

Completing VA Form FL-10-294 is only one part of the WOC onboarding process. Depending on the facility and the nature of the assignment, additional requirements commonly include:

  • Declaration for Federal Employment (OF-306)
  • Application for Health Professions Trainees (VA Form 10-2850D) when applicable
  • Appointment Affidavit (SF-61)
  • Background investigation and fingerprinting
  • Required training through the VA Talent Management System (TMS), including privacy, information security, and role-specific modules
  • Occupational health clearance and immunization documentation
  • Scope of practice documentation for research personnel

Local VA education offices or research administrative officers provide facility-specific checklists and guidance. Processing times typically range from several weeks to a couple of months, so early submission of materials is strongly recommended.

Why Accurate Completion Matters?

An properly executed FL-10-294 establishes the legal basis for the individual’s presence and activities at the VA. It protects both the individual and the Department by clearly defining the relationship as without compensation while still extending certain Federal employee protections. Incomplete or unsigned forms can delay or prevent the start of training, research, or volunteer service.

For the most current policy guidance, refer to VA Handbook 5005 and applicable VHA directives available through official VA publications channels.

Additional Resources

Individuals seeking a WOC appointment should always work directly with their designated VA program coordinator, education service, or research administrative officer. Requirements and procedures can vary slightly by facility and by the specific type of assignment.