Fill Out DA Form 5840 Online in 2026

DA Form 5840, known as the Certificate of Acceptance as Guardian or Escort, is an important document for soldiers who need to appoint someone to care for their children while they are away on military duty. This form ensures that the chosen guardian is aware of their responsibilities and has the authority to make decisions for the children. By completing this form, soldiers can ensure their children receive the proper care and support they need during their absence, which is vital for their well-being.

DA Form 5840 is important for military families. It helps ensure that a guardian or escort is officially recognized:

• Documentation: Confirms the guardian's or escort's role in caring for a soldier's family members.
• Authority: Verifies that they have the necessary documents to provide support.
• Responsibility: Acknowledges their duty to care for the family members.
• Notarization: Requires a notary's signature for validity.

1. Fill in the blanks: Enter the guardian's name, address, email, and notary information.

2. Sign the form: The guardian must sign in the notary's presence.

3. Date the form: Include the date of signing.

4. Notarize the form: Have the notary acknowledge and stamp the document.

5. Attach necessary documents: Include a copy of the Power of Attorney (DA Form 5841) and any other required documents.

6. Verify completeness: Ensure all necessary information is provided to avoid rejection of the Family Care Plan.

For signature requirements, check official sources for the latest information.

Guardians and notaries are responsible for completing DA Form 5840. Guardians must sign the form in front of a notary to confirm their commitment to care for the soldier's family members.

Afterwards, guardians use the form to demonstrate their authority and responsibilities in caring for the soldier's family, ensuring access to necessary services.

DA Form 5840, Certificate of Acceptance as Guardian or Escort, isn't necessary if the soldier's family members already have a legal guardian or custodian. It also isn't required for temporary deployments that don't need long-term guardianship. If the family care plan meets an established legal custody agreement, additional guardianship documentation isn't needed either.

For Active Duty soldiers, the form should be completed within 30 days of the event requiring a Family Care Plan.

National Guard and Army Reserve soldiers have 60 days from the date of counseling to complete their Family Care Plan, which includes DA Form 5840.

To obtain a blank DA Form 5840, issued by the U.S. Army under AR 600-20, visit our website. We have the form pre-loaded in our editor for you to fill out. Remember, our platform aids in filling and downloading, but not filing forms.

To sign DA Form 5840, Certificate of Acceptance as Guardian or Escort, you typically need a handwritten signature. However, if permitted, you can also use a simple electronic signature that complies with eSignature regulations such as ESIGN or UETA. Remember to check for the latest updates regarding signature requirements. With CookPDF, you can fill out the form and download it for future use, but submission and online sharing are not supported.

To submit DA Form 5840, sign it in front of a notary. Ensure the form is filed with the Soldier's unit or command, as online submission isn't allowed.

Mail the completed form along with required attachments like a notarized Power of Attorney and ID cards. Both the Soldier and their commander must sign and recertify annually.