Af Finance Lost Receipt Form

Losing a receipt for an Air Force (AF) financial transaction can be a headache, but the AF Finance Lost Receipt Form (DD Form 1351-2) provides a standardized method for claiming reimbursement or substantiating expenses when the original proof is unavailable.

Understanding the Purpose

The primary purpose of the DD Form 1351-2 is to allow service members and authorized civilian employees to request reimbursement for official expenses even without a physical receipt. This is crucial for situations where receipts are lost, damaged beyond recognition, or were simply not provided by the vendor. The form requires a detailed explanation of the expense, along with supporting documentation where possible, to allow the certifying official to determine the legitimacy of the claim.

Completing the Form

The form itself is relatively straightforward, but accuracy is paramount. Key information includes:

* Personal Information: Name, rank, social security number, mailing address, and contact information of the individual making the claim. * Expense Details: A thorough description of the expense, including the date incurred, the vendor name, the amount spent, and the purpose of the expenditure. The more detail provided, the better the chances of approval. * Explanation of Loss: A clear and concise explanation of how the receipt was lost or why it was never obtained. Vague or incomplete explanations can lead to rejection. * Supporting Documentation: While the form is for *lost* receipts, any supporting documentation that can corroborate the expense should be attached. This might include credit card statements showing the transaction, travel orders authorizing the expense, correspondence with the vendor, or even a sworn statement from a witness. * Certification: The claimant must certify that the information provided is true and accurate to the best of their knowledge.

Important Considerations

* Thoroughness is Key: Vague descriptions like “meals” are insufficient. Provide specific details such as the restaurant name, items purchased (if possible), and the purpose of the meal (e.g., official lunch meeting with a specific individual to discuss X project). * Honesty is Essential: Falsifying information on the form is a serious offense with potentially severe consequences under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). * Documentation Matters: Even if you don’t have a receipt, gathering any other evidence can significantly increase your chances of approval. A credit card statement showing the transaction is invaluable. * Seek Guidance: If you are unsure about how to complete the form or whether you have enough supporting documentation, consult with your unit’s finance office or a trusted financial advisor. They can provide valuable assistance and ensure that your claim is properly submitted. * Retain a Copy: Always keep a copy of the completed form and any supporting documentation for your records.

Conclusion

The AF Finance Lost Receipt Form is a critical tool for ensuring service members and authorized personnel are reimbursed for authorized expenses even when receipts are unavailable. By understanding the form’s purpose, completing it accurately and thoroughly, and providing as much supporting documentation as possible, individuals can navigate the process effectively and avoid potential financial hardship.