Fillable Form DA 3439

What is Form DA-3439?

Form DA-3439, Employment Reference Inquiry, is the signature DA form utilized primarily within the civilian employment process of the US Army and any proponent agency to gather information about an applicant's previous job performance, character, and qualifications from past employers, as well as assess the working or living environments that the applicant is coming from, when possible.

This form is part of the Army's comprehensive hiring process designed to ensure that candidates meet the stringent requirements and standards expected of civilian employees working in various capacities across the organization. It is important for the reference(s) provided by the applicant to be interviewed in order to ensure that the applicant accepts assigned responsibility and effectively accomplishes duties given to them.

How do I fill out Form DA-3439?

You may find a fillable copy of Form DA-3439 here. The enclosed DA form contains a letter that should be sent to the reference to inform them of the intention/purpose of the organization DA form. Make sure that you follow all detailed instructions set as part of the hiring process, and to conduct the interview in the approved manner of the US military branch you are representing (i.e. Marines, Air Force, Navy, et cetera).

Applicant’s Name

Enter the full name of the applicant.

Length of Acquaintance with Applicant

Enter how long the reference has known the applicant for, and in what capacity, by marking the relevant box below and entering the time in the corresponding row.

• Supervisor
• Fellow Employee
• Acquaintance
• Other (Specify)

Reason for Leaving

Enter the reason why the applicant left, if they are no longer employed with the reference.

Reemploy

Mark the box that indicates if the reference would re-employ the applicant, if given the opportunity. If “No” is marked, enter the reason for why in the “Remarks” section.

Personal Appraisal

For each of the below, mark the appropriate column that indicates if the applicant’s performance was Outstanding, Better than Average, Adequate, Unsatisfactory, or if there was not enough opportunity to observe.

• Dependability
• Cooperation
• Initiative and Creativeness
• Sound Judgment/Ability to Adapt Under Pressure
• Adaptability
• Consideration For Others
• Complete Only If Checked:
  • Job Knowledge
  • Managerial Skills
  • Supervision
  • Child Care Services

Then check “Yes” or “No” as applies for the below questions. If the answer to any of the below is “Yes”, enter an explanation in the “Remarks” section.

• Do you have any reason to question this person’s loyalty to the United States?
• Do you have any knowledge of any behavior, activities, or associations which tend to show that this person is not reliable, honest, trustworthy, and of good conduct and character?
• Have you ever observed or do you have knowledge of any behavior that would make you reluctant to hire or recommend this person for a position working with or caring for children/youth?

Remarks

Enter any remarks or additional details here.

Date

Enter the date that this form was filled out.

Reference’s Name

Enter the name of the reference.

Reference’s Signature

Have the reference sign the form in the space provided.

POC’s Name and Position

Enter the name and position of the person that contacted the reference, if the interview was completed through the telephone or an internet-connected device or mobile device.

POC’s Signature

Have the POC sign the form in the space provided, if the interview was completed through the telephone or an internet-connected device or mobile device.

Letter

Enter the following details in the letter provided with DA Form 3439:

• Address Information
  • Name and Address of Sender
  • Name and Address of Recipient
• Name of Reference
• Name of Applicant
• Position Applied To
• Method Through Which Candidate Indicated Reference (Mark the relevant box)
  • Reference was specifically named (“Your name as a reference”)
  • Association with organization

Then have the person sending this letter sign the completed form and enter their name in the space provided.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How does Form DA-3439 support the Army's mission?

By ensuring that civilian employees are qualified and reliable, it helps maintain the effectiveness and integrity of the Army's workforce. This contributes to the overall mission and goals of the organization.

Can Form DA-3439 reveal red flags about an applicant?

Yes, it can uncover issues with reliability, integrity, or teamwork that may not be evident from the applicant's resume or interview. This helps prevent hiring unsuitable candidates.

Is Form DA-3439 used for all civilian positions in the Army?

Yes, it is used across various capacities within the Army to ensure a consistent hiring process. This helps maintain high standards across the organization.

What happens if a past employer provides negative feedback on Form DA-3439?

Negative feedback can impact the hiring decision. It allows the Army to consider any potential risks associated with hiring the applicant.

Does Form DA-3439 include contact information for follow-up?

Yes, it requests contact information for the person providing the reference. This facilitates direct communication if further clarification is needed.

Can Form DA-3439 be used to verify employment dates?

Yes, it asks for the dates of previous employment to confirm the accuracy of the applicant's resume. This helps verify their work history.

What is the significance of disciplinary actions noted in Form DA-3439?

Disciplinary actions can indicate potential issues with the applicant's behavior or performance. This information is crucial for assessing their suitability for the position.

How does Form DA-3439 ensure consistency in hiring practices?

By using a standardized form for reference checks, the Army ensures all applicants are evaluated using the same criteria. This promotes consistency in hiring decisions.

Is the information on Form DA-3439 confidential?

Yes, the information provided is kept confidential and used solely for the purpose of making informed hiring decisions. This protects the privacy of both the applicant and the reference provider.

What are the consequences of providing false information on Form DA-3439?

Providing false information can lead to the applicant being disqualified from the hiring process.