DAF Form 594: BAH Application & Dependency Redetermination

DAF Form 594: BAH Application & Dependency Redetermination – DAF Form 594: Application and Authorization to Start, Stop, or Change Basic Allowance for Quarters (BAQ) or Dependency Redetermination is the official Department of the Air Force form used by Air Force and Space Force members to manage their Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) entitlement (formerly known as BAQ).

This form handles starting, stopping, changing, or recertifying BAH payments and dependency status. Accurate and timely submission helps ensure you receive the correct housing allowance based on your pay grade, duty location, and whether you have qualifying dependents.

What Is Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH)?

BAH provides uniformed service members a non-taxable monthly allowance to offset housing costs when government quarters are not provided. Rates are set annually based on local rental market data, utilities, and comparable civilian housing costs in the area of your permanent duty station (PDS) ZIP code.

Key points about BAH:

  • It distinguishes between with-dependents and without-dependents rates (the number of dependents does not increase the rate beyond the “with dependents” category).
  • In 2026, BAH rates increased by an average of 4.2%, effective January 1, 2026.
  • Rate protection prevents a decrease in your BAH if your dependency status and pay grade remain the same (exceptions include PCS or dependency changes).
  • Service members paying court-ordered child support may qualify for the with-dependents rate even if living without dependents.
  • Dual-military couples generally receive without-dependents rates unless claiming children.

For overseas assignments, members may receive Overseas Housing Allowance (OHA) instead of or in addition to BAH, depending on circumstances.

Purpose of DAF Form 594

The primary purpose of DAF Form 594 (dated 20221207 or later) is to:

  • Start, stop, or change BAH entitlement.
  • Perform dependency determination or redetermination (recertification).
  • Support entitlement recertification for members in unaccompanied personnel housing (especially E-6 and below).
  • Provide authorization for finance offices to adjust pay records.

It is prescribed by AFMAN 65-116V1 (Financial Management) and helps maintain the integrity of housing allowance payments, which total billions annually across the Air Force.

Note: The form is sometimes still referred to by its older AF Form 594 designation in legacy documents.

Who Needs to Use DAF Form 594?

Air Force and U.S. Space Force members typically use this form in these situations:

  • Initial BAH application upon marriage, birth/adoption of a child, or gaining custody.
  • Dependency changes — divorce, separation, death of a dependent, or change in custody.
  • Periodic recertification — many units require triennial (every 3 years) or annual validation of dependency status to prevent overpayments.
  • PCS moves or changes in housing status (e.g., moving into or out of government quarters).
  • Reserve/Guard members on active duty or transitioning status, often requiring a “wet” (physical) signature for certain submissions.
  • Secondary dependency claims (e.g., parents or incapacitated children), which may require additional DFAS forms like DD Form 137.

Failure to recertify or report changes can result in overpayment recovery, loss of the with-dependents rate, or administrative issues.

How to Fill Out DAF Form 594?

The form includes several parts. Focus on completing them accurately:

  1. Part A – Identification & Duty Location: Enter your name (Last, First, MI), rank/grade, SSN, organization, duty station, and contact information.
  2. Part B – Marital/Dependent Status: Indicate your marital status and list qualifying dependents (spouse, children, or others). Specify the action requested (start, stop, change, recertify) and effective date.
  3. Certification and Signatures: You must certify that the information is accurate, that you provide (or will provide) adequate support to claimed dependents, and understand that false statements can lead to penalties. A certifying official (usually from the finance or housing office) reviews and signs.

Required Supporting Documents (bring originals where possible):

  • Marriage certificate or divorce decree.
  • Birth certificates for children.
  • Custody or court orders (if applicable).
  • Proof of income or dependency for secondary dependents.
  • Any prior dependency determinations.

For recertification, common packages include the completed DAF Form 594 plus marriage/birth certificates as applicable. Reserve components may route through specific pay offices (e.g., HQ RIO).

Tip: Use the most current version of the form (20221207 or later) available from official e-Publishing sources. Some units require physical “wet” signatures rather than digital ones.

Download the Official DAF Form 594:
https://static.e-publishing.af.mil/production/1/saf_fm/form/daf594/daf594.pdf

Submission Process

  • Submit to your local Financial Services Office (FSO) or servicing pay office.
  • Walk-ins are often accepted; check your base for appointments.
  • For Reserve/ANG members, follow guidance from your unit or RIO (Reserve Individualized Organization) pay office via myFSS or similar portals.
  • Processing times vary; recertifications can take weeks, but pay offices have up to a year in some cases to complete actions. Submit promptly to avoid disruptions.

Always report changes in dependent status, residence, or housing immediately to avoid recoupment of improper payments.

Common Scenarios and Tips

  • New parents: Submit soon after birth to backdate BAH where authorized.
  • Divorce or separation: Update status quickly; child support orders may still qualify you for with-dependents BAH.
  • Unaccompanied overseas tours: You may receive BAH at the with-dependents rate based on your family’s U.S. location.
  • E-6 and below in barracks: Recertification is often required when terminating unaccompanied housing.
  • Secondary dependents (e.g., parents): Additional documentation and possibly DFAS Form 1856 or DD Form 137 are needed.

Important Legal Note: Claiming BAH with dependents requires providing adequate support. Failure to do so can lead to recoupment. You must report any changes that could affect entitlement (marriage, divorce, death, etc.).

Where to Get Help?

  • Contact your base Financial Services Office or MPF (Military Personnel Flight) for personalized guidance.
  • Refer to official sources:
    • DoD Financial Management Regulation (FMR) Volume 7A.
    • AFMAN 65-116 series.
    • myAirForceBenefits or DFAS websites.
  • For rate calculators and 2026 BAH tables, visit official DoD or Air Force benefits portals.

Staying proactive with DAF Form 594 ensures your housing allowance accurately reflects your situation and supports financial stability for you and your family.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for official finance or legal advice. Always consult your servicing finance office or command for the latest guidance, as policies and form versions can be updated.