AF Form 771: Accounting of Disclosures Guide & Download – AF Form 771, officially titled Accounting of Disclosures, is a key U.S. Air Force form used to track and document disclosures of personal information from Privacy Act systems of records. It supports compliance with the Privacy Act of 1974 (5 U.S.C. § 552a) and Department of Defense/Air Force privacy policies.
Service members, Department of the Air Force (DAF) civilians, and contractors who handle personal data need to understand this form. It ensures transparency and accountability when records are shared outside official DoD channels.
What Is AF Form 771 Used For?
AF Form 771 records disclosures of information from a System of Records (SOR) maintained by the Air Force. Under the Privacy Act, agencies must account for most disclosures of personal records (such as personnel files, medical records, or financial data) to third parties.
Key exceptions (no accounting required):
- Disclosures to DoD personnel for official use.
- Disclosures under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).
- Certain routine uses outlined in published System of Records Notices (SORNs).
System managers use the form (or equivalent local documentation) to log details like:
- Date of disclosure.
- Nature and purpose of the disclosure.
- Name and address of the recipient.
- Any additional relevant information for audit trails.
This supports individuals’ rights to request an accounting of disclosures about their own records.
Download the official AF Form 771 here: https://static.e-publishing.af.mil/production/1/saf_cio_a6/form/af771/af771.pdf
Why Is AF Form 771 Important?
- Privacy Rights Protection: Individuals can request a list of who received their information and why, promoting trust and accountability.
- Compliance and Auditing: Helps Air Force units meet federal requirements and respond to Privacy Act requests efficiently.
- Breach and Incident Response: Supports documentation in privacy incidents under AFI 33-332.
- Legal and Administrative Use: Referenced in personnel records management (e.g., DAFI 36-2608) and financial management contexts.
Non-compliance with Privacy Act procedures can lead to disciplinary actions, complaints, or legal issues.
How to Fill Out AF Form 771? (Step-by-Step Guidance)
While the form itself is straightforward, follow these general steps based on AFI 33-332 guidelines:
- Identify the Record Subject — Enter the full name, SSN (if authorized), or other identifier of the individual whose record is being disclosed.
- Document the Disclosure Details:
- Date of disclosure.
- Description of the information disclosed.
- Purpose of the disclosure (e.g., specific routine use or legal requirement).
- Recipient’s name, organization, and contact information.
- System of Records Reference — Note the relevant SORN (e.g., from the Federal Register).
- Signature and Date — The system manager or authorized official signs the form.
- Retention — Maintain records as required (typically for the period individuals may request accounting, often several years).
System managers may use local formats or correspondence if more convenient, as long as the required elements are captured.
Tip: Always coordinate with your unit Privacy Manager/Monitor or legal office for specific scenarios.
Related Air Force Privacy Policies (Current as of 2020+)
The primary governing instruction is AFI 33-332, Air Force Privacy and Civil Liberties Program (10 March 2020, with corrections). It details roles, responsibilities, breach reporting, Privacy Impact Assessments (PIAs), and SSN reduction efforts.
Additional references:
- DoDM 5400.07_AFMAN 33-302 and related DoD privacy rules.
- DAFI 36-2608 for personnel records disclosures.
For the latest forms and publications, visit the official Air Force e-Publishing site (e-Publishing.af.mil).
Who Needs AF Form 771?
- System Managers and records custodians.
- Privacy Officers/Monitors at MAJCOM, wing, and unit levels.
- Personnel, Finance, and Medical Staff handling record disclosures.
- Individuals requesting their own disclosure history.
U.S.-based Air Force personnel and civilians should contact their local Privacy Act office or the Air Force Privacy Office for assistance with requests or training.
Common Questions About AF Form 771
Q: Can I request an accounting of my own disclosures?
Yes. Submit a Privacy Act request through proper channels. Accountings generally cover disclosures outside of official DoD use or FOIA.
Q: Is AF Form 771 still current?
Yes, it remains the prescribed form in AFI 33-332 and related publications.
Q: Where do I find more training?
Check Cyber Awareness training, unit Privacy Monitors, or the Air Force Privacy website for resources on PII handling and disclosures.
Need Help?
Contact your base Privacy Manager, servicing legal office, or visit privacy.af.mil for official guidance. Always use official .mil sources for the most accurate, up-to-date information.
This article is for informational purposes and does not constitute official legal advice. Policies may be updated—verify with current Air Force publications.