Understanding the True Nature of Military Leave Requests: Debunking Common Myths

Does a soldier’s wife have to pay processing fees for a soldier to request a leave? The simple answer is no, unless there is fraud involved. This article aims to clarify common misconceptions about military leave requests, especially in relation to authenticity and fees.

Understanding Military Leave

Military leave is an approved absence from official duty with pay for an employee who is a member of the National Guard or a reserve component of the Armed Forces. This leave can be granted for situations such as:

Official duty performed in a combat or other specialized environment Inactive duty training Field or coast defense training

The request and authorization to take leave is between the individual service member and his immediate command. Family members or friends are not involved in the request process, nor are they required to provide or pay for the service member’s leave. This process is standardized across the U.S. Armed Forces.

Common Myths About Military Leave Requests

It is essential to address and debunk some common myths and misunderstandings about military leave requests. Here are three of the most prevalent ones:

Myth 1: Processing Fees Are Required for Leave Requests

One of the most confusing myths is that a soldier’s wife or family member needs to pay processing fees to request a leave. This is incorrect and can be a red flag for identity fraud or scams. If you ever come across a request for fees to process leave, it is highly likely that you are dealing with a scammer.

Myth 2: Formal Documentation Is Required from Family or Friends

A second myth is that family members or friends need to submit official documents or paperwork to authorize a service member’s leave. While there is a paperwork requirement for the service member to complete, no one else is asked to, nor is it necessary for them to provide additional documentation.

There are instances of fraudulent documents being circulated claiming to be official military forms. It is crucial to be aware of these forgeries and to verify the legitimacy of any document before acting on it. If you are in doubt, you can reach out to the relevant authorities to confirm the authenticity of any document presented to you.

Myth 3: Acknowledgment Fees for Identification Requests

Requests for identification information or documents, such as Social Security numbers, are not always mandatory. If you have made a request for identification, it is important to understand that the processing time may vary. The typical processing time is approximately four weeks for written requests.

Requests for identification information should be addressed to:

Commander, U.S. Army Enlisted Records Evaluation Center ATTN: Locator 8899 East 56th Street Fort Benjamin Harrison, IN 46249-5301

When making such a request, it is important to provide as much identifying information as possible, such as the full name, rank, last duty assignment, last known military address, service number, and Social Security number.

Protecting Yourself from Scammers

The collaboration of scammers with fraudulent documents can be highly deceptive. It is crucial to stay vigilant and be aware of the following steps to protect yourself:

Reporting Scammers

If you suspect that you are dealing with a scammer, report the individual to They provide valuable resources and assistance to help victims recover their money and protect themselves from further harm.

Seeking Professional Assistance

In situations where you are unsure about the authenticity of a relationship, it is wise to seek professional assistance. Investigators and seasoned veterans from companies like are equipped with the expertise to address any uncertainties and help prevent falling victim to romance scams.

Conclusion

Education and awareness are key in avoiding scams and misinformation regarding military leave requests. By understanding the true nature of military leave, identifying common scam tactics, and taking steps to protect yourself online, you can enjoy the benefits of genuine military relationships without falling prey to fraud.