DAF Form 4456: Casualty Privacy Act Release (PAR) Download

DAF Form 4456: Casualty Privacy Act Release (PAR) Download – Military families and Department of the Air Force personnel need clear information on handling sensitive casualty matters with privacy protections. DAF Form 4456, officially titled Department of the Air Force Casualty Privacy Act Release (PAR), plays a key role in this process.

What Is DAF Form 4456?

DAF Form 4456 is an official Department of the Air Force form released on December 7, 2022. It authorizes the release of personal information about a casualty (such as death, injury, or missing status) under the Privacy Act of 1974.

The form allows the Primary Next of Kin (PNOK) or designated representative to consent to the sharing of details like the service member’s name, rank, casualty circumstances, and related information with authorized parties. This supports compassionate notification, assistance, and public affairs coordination while complying with federal privacy laws.

It applies to Regular Air Force, Air Force Reserve, Air National Guard, and applicable United States Space Force members (Guardians).

Why Is DAF Form 4456 Important?

The Privacy Act restricts disclosure of personal records without consent. In casualty situations, timely and appropriate information sharing is essential for:

  • Notifying and assisting families.
  • Coordinating benefits, travel (e.g., Emergency Family Member Travel), and support services.
  • Managing media releases or condolences from senior leaders.
  • Providing updates to extended family or support networks.

Without a completed DAF Form 4456, the Air Force may face limitations in releasing information, potentially delaying support. The form streamlines processes outlined in DAFI 36-3002, Casualty Services (updated July 15, 2025).

Who Needs to Complete DAF Form 4456?

  • Primary Next of Kin (PNOK) of a casualty.
  • Service members (pre-authorization where applicable).
  • Designated representatives or secondary next of kin (with proper authorization).

Casualty Assistance Representatives (CARs) or Personnel Support teams typically guide families through completion during notification and assistance phases.

Key Features of the Form

  • Purpose: Explicit consent for release of casualty-related personal information.
  • Scope: Covers details necessary for casualty services, benefits, and support.
  • Legal Basis: Privacy Act of 1974 (5 U.S.C. § 552a), with supporting authorities in DAFI 36-3002 and DoDI 1300.18.
  • Edition Date: December 7, 2022 (current as of 2026).

How to Obtain and Download DAF Form 4456?

Download the official fillable PDF directly from the Department of the Air Force e-Publishing site:
DAF Form 4456 PDF Download.

Additional trusted sources for information and fillable versions include the official Air Force e-Publishing portal (e-publishing.af.mil) and guidance in DAFI 36-3002.

Tip: Always use the official PDF from e-publishing.af.mil for compliance. Third-party sites may host copies but verify against the Air Force source.

How to Fill Out DAF Form 4456? (Step-by-Step Overview)

While specific instructions accompany the form and DAFI 36-3002, general steps include:

  1. Provide the casualty’s full name, rank/grade, SSN (if required), and service details.
  2. Identify the signer (PNOK or representative) with relationship to the service member.
  3. Specify the scope of release (e.g., to family, support organizations, or public affairs).
  4. Include contact information and date.
  5. Sign in the presence of a witness or notary if required by local procedures.
  6. Submit to the Casualty Assistance Representative or designated office.

Important: Consult your CAR or unit leadership for case-specific guidance. Improper completion may delay assistance.

Related Casualty Services (DAFI 36-3002)

DAF Form 4456 integrates into broader casualty programs, including:

  • Reporting and notification procedures.
  • Death gratuity, survivor benefits, and travel entitlements.
  • Support for Very Seriously Injured (VSI), Seriously Injured (SI), or other statuses.
  • Gold Star family recognition and ongoing assistance.

For full details, review the latest DAFI 36-3002 Casualty Services on e-publishing.af.mil.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is DAF Form 4456 mandatory?
A: It is required for full release of protected information to PNOK or others in casualty cases.

Q: Can I pre-complete this form?
A: Service members may discuss or prepare authorizations, but it is primarily executed by the PNOK post-incident.

Q: Who can I contact for help?
A: Reach out to your local Casualty Assistance Representative, Military Personnel Flight, or AFPC. Families can also use resources at Military OneSource or base Family Readiness Centers.

Q: Does it apply to Space Force?
A: Yes, for applicable Guardians per current DAFI 36-3002 guidance.

Protect Privacy While Ensuring Support

DAF Form 4456 balances Privacy Act protections with the Air Force’s commitment to compassionate casualty care. Understanding and properly using this form helps families receive timely information and benefits during difficult times.

For the most current guidance, always refer to official sources:

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for official military guidance. Contact appropriate Air Force authorities for personalized assistance.