Homepage Da 2166 9 1 PDF Template
Jump Links

The DA Form 2166-9-1 serves as a crucial tool in the evaluation of Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) within the U.S. Army, specifically designed for the assessment of Sergeants. This form is not just a document; it embodies a structured approach to capturing an NCO's performance and potential over a designated period. It encompasses various sections that require detailed administrative data, including the NCO's name, Social Security Number, rank, and unit information. Furthermore, the form facilitates an evaluation process that involves multiple levels of review, starting from the rater to the senior rater, and potentially including supplementary reviewers. Each evaluator provides insights into the NCO's daily duties, professional attributes, and competencies, which are vital for career progression. The form also emphasizes the importance of character, presence, intellect, leadership, development, and achievement, ensuring a comprehensive assessment. Additionally, it includes a section for the rated NCO to acknowledge their understanding of the evaluation and the appeals process, reinforcing transparency and accountability in the evaluation system. As such, the DA Form 2166-9-1 is integral to fostering professional growth and maintaining the standards of excellence expected within the Army.

Common mistakes

  1. Incomplete Information: Failing to fill out all required fields, such as the name, SSN, or date of rank, can lead to delays in processing the form.

  2. Incorrect Email Address: Providing an incorrect email address for the rated NCO or raters can hinder communication and verification.

  3. Missing Signatures: Not obtaining the necessary signatures from the rater, senior rater, or supplementary reviewer will render the form invalid.

  4. Improper Dates: Entering incorrect dates for counseling or submission can create confusion and affect the evaluation timeline.

  5. Neglecting Comments: Failing to provide comments in the performance evaluation sections may result in a lack of clarity regarding the rated NCO's performance.

Misconceptions

Understanding the DA 2166-9-1 form is essential for both NCOs and their evaluators. However, several misconceptions often arise regarding this important document. Here are seven common misunderstandings:

  • The DA 2166-9-1 is only for negative evaluations. Many people believe that this form is solely used to document poor performance. In reality, it serves to evaluate all aspects of an NCO's performance, whether positive or negative.
  • Only the rater fills out the form. Some assume that the rater is the only one responsible for completing the form. However, both the rater and the senior rater contribute to the evaluation, ensuring a comprehensive assessment.
  • Signing the form means agreement with the evaluation. A common misconception is that the signature of the rated NCO indicates agreement with the assessment. In fact, the signature only confirms that the NCO has seen the completed report and that the administrative data is accurate.
  • The form is not important for career advancement. Some individuals think that the DA 2166-9-1 has little impact on promotions or assignments. On the contrary, a well-completed evaluation can significantly influence an NCO’s career trajectory.
  • All evaluations are the same. It is a misconception that all DA 2166-9-1 forms are identical. Each evaluation is unique, reflecting the specific duties, responsibilities, and performance of the individual NCO.
  • Performance evaluations are only about technical skills. Many believe that the evaluation focuses solely on job-related skills. While technical abilities are important, the form also assesses leadership qualities, professionalism, and adherence to Army values.
  • There is no recourse for disagreement with the evaluation. Some NCOs feel that once the evaluation is completed, they have no options for addressing concerns. However, the process includes an appeals mechanism, allowing rated NCOs to voice their disagreements.

By addressing these misconceptions, NCOs and evaluators can approach the evaluation process with a clearer understanding, ultimately leading to more effective assessments and professional growth.

Da 2166 9 1 - Usage Guide

Completing the DA 2166-9-1 form is a critical step in the evaluation process for NCOs. It requires careful attention to detail and accurate information. Follow these steps to ensure that the form is filled out correctly and submitted in a timely manner.

  1. Administrative Data: Fill in your full name (last, first, middle initial), SSN or DOD ID number, rank, date of rank, PMOSC, unit or organization, station, ZIP code or APO, major command, status code, UIC, reason for submission, period covered (from and through), rated months, non-rated codes, number of enclosures, and your email address.
  2. Authentication: Provide the name, SSN, signature, date, rank, PMOSC/branch, organization duty assignment, and email address of the rater. Repeat the same for the senior rater, including their name, SSN, signature, date, rank, PMOSC/branch, organization duty assignment, and email address. If applicable, fill in the supplementary reviewer's information.
  3. Rated NCO Acknowledgment: Enter the counseling dates and provide your signature and date, confirming your understanding of the evaluations and the appeals process.
  4. Duty Description: Describe your principal duty title, duty MOSC, daily duties and scope (including people, equipment, facilities, and budget), areas of special emphasis, and appointed duties.
  5. Performance Evaluation: Complete the performance evaluation section, which includes APFT results (pass/fail/profile), height, weight, and comments on various attributes such as character, presence, intellect, leadership, development, and achievement.
  6. Senior Rater Overall Potential: Select the appropriate box representing your potential compared to others in the same grade. Provide comments and list two successive assignments along with one broadening assignment.

Once the form is complete, review it for accuracy before submission. Ensure that all required signatures are obtained and that the form is submitted to the appropriate channels in a timely manner. Proper completion of this form is essential for your evaluation process.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the DA 2166-9-1 form, there are several important guidelines to follow. Below is a list of things you should and shouldn’t do.

  • Do ensure that all personal information is accurate, including name, SSN, and rank.
  • Do provide a clear and complete duty description in Part III.
  • Do sign and date the form in the appropriate sections.
  • Do review the form for completeness before submission.
  • Do include all required attachments as specified.
  • Don't leave any sections blank; fill in all necessary fields.
  • Don't use abbreviations or unclear terms that may confuse reviewers.
  • Don't forget to include your email address in the designated area.
  • Don't submit the form without confirming that all information is correct.

Key takeaways

The DA Form 2166-9-1 is an essential tool for evaluating Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) within the Army. Proper completion and understanding of this form can significantly impact an NCO's career trajectory. Here are ten key takeaways regarding its use:

  1. Accurate Information is Crucial: Ensure that all personal and administrative data, including name, SSN, rank, and unit, is filled out correctly in Part I.
  2. Submission Reasons Matter: Clearly indicate the reason for submission, as this influences the evaluation process.
  3. Understand the Rating Period: Clearly define the period covered by the evaluation. This helps in contextualizing the performance being assessed.
  4. Rater and Senior Rater Details: Complete the authentication section thoroughly, including signatures and email addresses, to validate the evaluation.
  5. Performance Evaluation is Multifaceted: Evaluate various aspects such as character, presence, intellect, leadership, development, and achievement to provide a comprehensive assessment.
  6. Comments are Essential: Use comments to elaborate on the ratings provided. This adds clarity and context to the evaluation.
  7. Counseling Dates are Important: Document counseling dates accurately to ensure that the rated NCO is aware of their performance and any areas for improvement.
  8. Potential Assessment: The senior rater must assess the rated NCO’s potential compared to peers, which can influence future assignments and promotions.
  9. Broadening Assignments: Include information about successive and broadening assignments, as these experiences are critical for career development.
  10. Awareness of the Appeals Process: The rated NCO should be informed about the appeals process outlined in AR 623-3, should they disagree with the evaluation.

By adhering to these guidelines, the evaluation process can be more effective, transparent, and beneficial for all parties involved.