DAF Form 220: BAS Request & Authorization (2026) – Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS) is a monthly, non-taxable allowance that helps U.S. Air Force and Space Force members offset the cost of their meals. Most enlisted members automatically receive standard BAS, but specific situations—such as requesting separate rations, adjusting for Essential Station Messing (ESM), or handling collections—require proper documentation. That’s where DAF Form 220 comes in.
Officially titled Request, Authorization, and Pay Order Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS), this Department of the Air Force form is the key document for starting, stopping, or adjusting BAS payments for DAF personnel.
What Is DAF Form 220 Used For?
DAF Form 220 serves as the official request and authorization tool for BAS-related actions. Common uses include:
- Requesting separate rations (commuting rations) when a member is not required to eat at the dining facility (DFAC).
- Removing a member from Essential Station Messing (ESM) or Essential Unit Messing (EUM) so they can receive BAS without meal deductions.
- Authorizing BAS II (double the standard enlisted rate) in approved cases, such as when single/unaccompanied enlisted members live in government quarters without adequate food storage or preparation facilities and no government mess is available.
- Initiating collections for meals provided by the government while the member receives BAS.
- Terminating or adjusting BAS entitlements due to changes in status (e.g., PCS, leave, or duty changes).
The form ensures accurate pay processing through the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) and helps maintain compliance with DoD and DAF policies. It is prescribed by AFMAN 65-116, Volume 1 (or its current version).
Download the official DAF Form 220 here:
https://static.e-publishing.af.mil/production/1/saf_fm/form/daf220/daf220-locked.pdf
Always use the latest version from the Air Force e-Publishing site to ensure compliance.
Who Needs to Submit DAF Form 220?
- Enlisted members requesting to ration separately or be removed from mandatory dining facility use.
- Unit commanders or designated ESM monitors who approve or disapprove requests.
- Finance personnel who process the pay order.
- Members in situations involving BAS II authorization or meal collections.
Officers generally receive BAS automatically at the officer rate and rarely need this form unless special circumstances apply. New accessions during Basic Military Training (BMT) or initial officer training typically do not receive BAS until they complete training.
Current 2026 BAS Rates (Effective January 1, 2026)
BAS rates are adjusted annually based on U.S. Department of Agriculture food cost data and are non-taxable. Here are the rates published by DFAS:
| Category | Monthly Rate (2026) |
|---|---|
| Officers | $328.48 |
| Enlisted (Standard) | $476.95 |
| BAS II (Enlisted) | $953.90 |
- BAS II is approximately double the standard enlisted rate and requires specific authorization by the Secretary of the Military Department (or designee). It applies in limited cases where government quarters lack cooking facilities and no mess is available.
- Rates increased by 2.4% from 2025, reflecting higher food costs.
These amounts appear as a separate line on your Leave and Earnings Statement (LES). BAS is paid to the service member only and is not intended to cover meals for family members.
How to Fill Out and Process DAF Form 220?
While the exact layout includes multiple sections (typically Section I for member information and request, Section II for authorization, and Section III for accounting/finance actions), here is a general step-by-step overview based on Air Force guidance:
- Section I (Member Information & Request)
- Member’s full name, grade/rank, DoD ID number (not SSN on newer forms), organization/unit, and contact details.
- Indicate the type of request (e.g., start BAS separate rations, terminate, collect, etc.).
- Provide a clear reason for the request.
- Member signs and dates the form.
- Commander / Approving Official Review
- The unit commander (or designated ESM monitor/1st Sergeant) reviews and recommends approval or disapproval.
- Signature and date are required here. Commanders must ensure the request aligns with policy, especially for removing members from ESM (e.g., when duties consistently cause missed meals).
- Section II/III (Authorization & Finance Actions)
- Finance or certifying officials authorize the adjustment (credit BAS, collect for meals provided, terminate effective date, etc.).
- Include any required accounting data or remarks.
Processing Tips:
- Submit the original signed form to the base Finance office (Comptroller Squadron) within required timelines (often within 3 duty days of approval).
- Provide copies to the member, food service office (for DFAC adjustments), and retain one in the unit.
- For ESM removal, commanders should document that the member consistently misses meals due to duty requirements.
Accurate completion prevents pay issues and ensures timely BAS adjustments.
Related Policies and Regulations
- DoD FMR, Volume 7A, Chapter 25 — Governs BAS entitlements and payments across the Department of Defense.
- DoD Directive 1418.05 — Outlines BAS policy, including when members must pay for government-furnished meals.
- AFMAN 65-116, Volume 1 — Air Force-specific financial management procedures that prescribe use of DAF Form 220.
- Unit-level guidance on Essential Station Messing (ESM).
Members in excess leave, AWOL (unless excused), certain training, or court-martial status may have restricted BAS entitlements.
Common Scenarios Requiring DAF Form 220
- Living off-base or in quarters where eating at the DFAC is impractical.
- Shift work or duties that prevent regular DFAC access.
- Transitioning between BAS status during PCS or temporary duty.
- Requesting BAS II at approved locations.
If you consistently miss more than 18 meals per month due to mission requirements, your commander may approve removal from ESM using this form.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is BAS taxable?
No — BAS is a non-taxable allowance.
Does BAS depend on rank or dependents?
No — The rate is the same for all enlisted members (E-1 through E-9) and all officers. It does not increase with dependents.
How do I get a copy of my DAF Form 220?
Contact your unit CSS, 1st Sergeant, or base Finance office. The form is also available on the official Air Force e-Publishing website.
What if my BAS isn’t showing on my LES?
Double-check with Finance. A properly submitted and processed DAF Form 220 is usually required to start or adjust the entitlement.
Can I use the form for BAS II?
Yes, in authorized cases. BAS II requires higher-level approval and specific justification.
Need Help with DAF Form 220?
For the most accurate guidance, consult your local Finance office, unit commander, or the Air Force Personnel Center (AFPC). Policies can have service-specific nuances, and Finance professionals can walk you through completion based on your exact situation.
Official Resources:
- DFAS BAS Rates: dfas.mil
- Air Force e-Publishing Forms: e-publishing.af.mil
Stay informed about your entitlements — proper use of DAF Form 220 ensures you receive the correct BAS amount without delays or over/under payments.
This article is for informational purposes only and is based on publicly available DoD and DAF sources as of 2026. Always verify with official military channels for your specific circumstances, as policies and rates are subject to change.