DAF Form 1180: PEB Findings Action & Disposition Guide – Service members facing medical issues that impact their ability to perform duties often enter the Department of the Air Force’s Disability Evaluation System (DES). DAF Form 1180 (formerly AF Form 1180) serves as a critical document in this process. It records your official response to the Physical Evaluation Board’s (PEB) findings and recommended disposition after an Informal or Formal PEB review.
This form helps determine next steps, such as acceptance of findings (leading to separation, retirement, or return to duty) or appeal for a Formal PEB hearing. Understanding it is essential for protecting your rights, benefits, and career.
What Is DAF Form 1180?
DAF Form 1180, titled Action on Physical Evaluation Board Findings and Recommended Disposition, documents a service member’s election regarding PEB results. It applies to Regular Air Force, U.S. Space Force, Air Force Reserve, and Air National Guard members.
The form follows review by the Informal Physical Evaluation Board (IPEB) or Formal Physical Evaluation Board (FPEB). The IPEB reviews your Medical Evaluation Board (MEB) case file without your presence and issues findings on fitness for duty and, if unfit, disability ratings and disposition.
You typically receive the PEB’s decision (documented on AF Form 356 or equivalent) via your Physical Evaluation Board Liaison Officer (PEBLO). You then have a short window—usually 6 calendar days—to review, consult with counsel if desired, and complete DAF Form 1180.
Key Purpose in the Disability Evaluation System (DES)
The DES ensures a fit fighting force while providing fair benefits to those with service-related disabilities under 10 U.S.C. Chapter 61. DAF Form 1180 captures your choice on:
- Agreeing with the board’s fitness/unfitness determination and recommended disposition (e.g., return to duty, separation with severance pay, retirement with pay).
- Requesting a one-time VA disability rating reconsideration (in IDES cases).
- Disagreeing and appealing to a Formal PEB hearing.
Governing Instruction: DAFI 36-3212, Physical Evaluation for Retention, Retirement and Separation (22 February 2024), outlines the full process.
When and How You Use DAF Form 1180?
- After IPEB Findings — Your PEBLO briefs you on results. You review AF Form 356.
- Counseling — PEBLO provides counseling and explains options. You may consult the Office of Disability Counsel (ODC) or private counsel.
- Complete the Form — Indicate your election (agree/waive, agree with VA recon, or disagree/request formal hearing). Submit supporting documents if appealing.
- Submission — Signed form returns to the PEB for processing. Failure to respond may result in default forwarding for final action.
Timeline Note: Timelines can vary slightly between IDES (Integrated DES with VA) and LDES (Legacy DES). Always confirm with your PEBLO.
Common Election Options on DAF Form 1180
Typical choices include:
- Agree and Waive FPEB — Accept findings; case proceeds to final disposition (separation/retirement).
- Agree but Request VA Reconsideration (IDES only) — Accept fitness/disposition but seek higher VA ratings for unfitting conditions.
- Disagree and Request Formal PEB — Appeal for a hearing where you can appear (in person, video, etc.), present evidence, and have representation.
You can also address combat-related determinations or stability of conditions, which affect benefits like CRSC or tax-free retirement pay.
Tips for Service Members
- Act Quickly: Meet the 6-day (or applicable) deadline to avoid automatic processing.
- Seek Counsel: Free representation is available through the Office of Airmen’s Counsel/Disability Counsel. Contact them early.
- Gather Evidence: For appeals, include new medical records, commander statements (DAF Form 1185), or buddy statements.
- Understand Impacts: Decisions affect retirement pay, VA compensation, TRICARE, and future employment. A finding of “unfit” with 30%+ disability rating typically qualifies for medical retirement.
- TDRL Cases: Periodic re-evaluations use similar processes.
Consult your PEBLO, commander, and legal counsel before signing. Mistakes can affect long-term benefits.
Download the Official DAF Form 1180
Official PDF Download (Current Version):
https://static.e-publishing.af.mil/production/1/af_a1/form/daf1180/daf1180.pdf
Fillable versions and instructions are available through official Air Force e-Publishing channels or your PEBLO. Do not use outdated forms.
Additional Resources
- DAFI 36-3212 Full Instruction — Primary guidance on the entire DES process.
- Air Force Wounded Warrior Program and PEBLO support.
- VA resources for concurrent IDES ratings.
- Legal assistance via ODC or accredited veterans service organizations.
If you are navigating the DES as an Airman or Guardian, stay informed and proactive. The process protects both service readiness and your earned benefits. For personalized guidance, contact your local PEBLO or Disability Counsel immediately.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Policies can update; always verify with official sources like e-Publishing.af.mil or your chain of command.