Fill in a Valid OPM Optional 306 Template

The OPM Optional 306 form is a document used by federal employees to provide information regarding their eligibility for employment benefits. This form is essential for ensuring that all necessary data is collected efficiently, helping streamline the onboarding process. If you need to fill out this form, click the button below to get started.

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The OPM Optional Form 306 (OF-306) plays a crucial role in the application process for individuals seeking employment within the federal government. This form serves as an affidavit, confirming the applicant's eligibility and providing essential personal information. Key components of the form include demographic details such as name, address, and Social Security number, alongside questions pertaining to the applicant’s employment history and background. Notably, candidates must disclose any previous federal employment, military service, and relevant educational qualifications. The form also requests information regarding any criminal history or disciplinary actions taken against the applicant. Accurately completing the OF-306 is vital as it directly impacts the hiring process, ensuring compliance with federal regulations and standards. Understanding the form's requirements and implications can significantly enhance an applicant's prospects for securing a position within the federal workforce.

OPM Optional 306 Example

Declaration for Federal Employment*	Form Approved:
	OMB No. 3206-0182

(*This form may also be used to assess fitness for federal contract employment)

Instructions

The information collected on this form is used to determine your acceptability for Federal and Federal contract employment and your enrollment status in the Government's Life Insurance program. You may be asked to complete this form at any time during the hiring process. Follow instructions that the agency provides. If you are selected, before you are appointed you will be asked to update your responses on this form and on other materials submitted during the application process and then to recertify that your answers are true.

All your answers must be truthful and complete. A false statement on any part of this declaration or attached forms or sheets may be grounds for not hiring you, or for firing you after you begin work. Also, you may be punished by a fine or imprisonment (U.S. Code, title 18, section 1001).

Either type your responses on this form or print clearly in dark ink. If you need additional space, attach letter-size sheets (8.5" X 11"). Include your name, Social Security Number, and item number on each sheet. We recommend that you keep a photocopy of your completed form for your records.

Privacy Act Statement

The Office of Personnel Management is authorized to request this information under sections 1302, 3301, 3304, 3328, and 8716 of title 5, U. S. Code. Section 1104 of title 5 allows the Office of Personnel Management to delegate personnel management functions to other Federal agencies. If necessary, and usually in conjunction with another form or forms, this form may be used in conducting an investigation to determine your suitability or your ability to hold a security clearance, and it may be disclosed to authorized officials making similar, subsequent determinations.

Your Social Security Number (SSN) is needed to keep our records accurate, because other people may have the same name and birth date. Public Law 104-134 (April 26, 1996) asks Federal agencies to use this number to help identify individuals in agency records. Giving us your SSN or any other information is voluntary. However, if you do not give us your SSN or any other information requested, we cannot process your application. Incomplete addresses and ZIP Codes may also slow processing.

ROUTINE USES: Any disclosure of this record or information in this record is in accordance with routine uses found in System

Notice OPM/GOVT-1, General Personnel Records. This system allows disclosure of information to: training facilities; organizations deciding claims for retirement, insurance, unemployment, or health benefits; officials in litigation or administrative proceedings where the Government is a party; law enforcement agencies concerning a violation of law or regulation; Federal agencies for statistical reports and studies; officials of labor organizations recognized by law in connection with representation of employees; Federal agencies or other sources requesting information for Federal agencies in connection with hiring or retaining, security clearance, security or suitability investigations, classifying jobs, contracting, or issuing licenses, grants, or other benefits; public and private organizations, including news media, which grant or publicize employee recognitions and awards; the Merit Systems Protection Board, the Office of Special Counsel, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the Federal Labor Relations Authority, the National Archives and Records Administration, and Congressional offices in connection with their official functions; prospective non-Federal employers concerning tenure of employment, civil service status, length of service, and the date and nature of action for separation as shown on the SF 50 (or authorized exception) of a specifically identified individual; requesting organizations or individuals concerning the home address and other relevant information on those who might have contracted an illness or been exposed to a health hazard; authorized Federal and non-Federal agencies for use in computer matching; spouses or dependent children asking whether the employee has changed from a self-and-family to a self-only health benefits enrollment; individuals working on a contract, service, grant, cooperative agreement, or job for the Federal government; non-agency members of an agency's performance or other panel; and agency-appointed representatives of employees concerning information issued to the employees about fitness-for-duty or agency-filed disability retirement procedures.

Public Burden Statement

Public burden reporting for this collection of information is estimated to vary from 5 to 30 minutes with an average of 15 minutes per response, including time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. Send comments regarding the burden estimate or any other aspect of the collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden, to the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, Reports and Forms Manager (3206-0182), Washington, DC 20415-7900. The OMB number, 3206-0182, is valid. OPM may not collect this information, and you are not required to respond, unless this number is displayed.

U.S. Office of Personnel Management	Optional Form 306
	Revised October 2019
5 U.S.C. 1302, 3301, 3304, 3328 & 8716	Previous editions obsolete and unusable

Declaration for Federal Employment*	Form Approved:
	OMB No. 3206-0182

(*This form may also be used to assess fitness for federal contract employment)

General Information

1.FULL NAME (Provide your full name. If you have only initials in your name, provide them and indicate "Initial only". If you do not have a middle name, indicate "No Middle Name". If you are a "Jr.," "Sr.," etc. enter this under Suffix. First, Middle, Last, Suffix)

♦

2. SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER

♦

3a. PLACE OF BIRTH (Include city and state or country)

♦

3b. ARE YOU A U.S. CITIZEN?			4. DATE OF BIRTH (MM / DD / YYYY)
YES	NO (If "NO", provide country of citizenship)	♦	♦
		♦	♦
5. OTHER NAMES EVER USED (For example, maiden name, nickname, etc.)			6. PHONE NUMBERS (Include area codes)
♦			Day	♦
♦			Night	♦
Selective Service Registration

If you are a male born after December 31, 1959, and are at least 18 years of age, civil service employment law (5 U.S.C. 3328) requires that you must register with the Selective Service System, unless you meet certain exemptions.


7a.	Were you born a male after December 31, 1959?	YES		NO (If "NO", proceed to 8.)
7b.	Have you registered with the Selective Service System?	YES (If "YES", proceed to 8.)		NO (If "NO", proceed to 7c.)
7c. If "NO," describe your reason(s) in item 16.
Military Service


8.	Have you ever served in the United States military?	YES	(If "YES", provide information below)		NO

If your only active duty was training in the Reserves or National Guard, answer "NO.”

If you answered "YES," list the branch, dates, and type of discharge for all active duty.

Branch

From (MM/DD/YYYY)

To (MM/DD/YYYY)

Type of Discharge

Background Information

For all questions, provide all additional requested information under item 16 or on attached sheets. The circumstances of each event

you list will be considered. However, in most cases you can still be considered for Federal jobs.

For questions 9,10, and 11, your answers should include convictions resulting from a plea of nolo contendere (no contest), but omit (1) traffic fines of $300 or less, (2) any violation of law committed before your 16th birthday, (3) any violation of law committed before your 18th birthday if finally decided in juvenile court or under a Youth Offender law, (4) any conviction set aside under the Federal Youth Corrections Act or similar state law, and (5) any conviction for which the record was expunged under Federal or state law .

9. During the last 7 years, have you been convicted, been imprisoned, been on probation, or been on parole?	YES	NO
(Includes felonies, firearms or explosives violations, misdemeanors, and all other offenses.) If "YES," use item 16	YES	NO

to provide the date, explanation of the violation, place of occurrence, and the name and address of the police
department or court involved.
10. Have you been convicted by a military court-martial in the past 7 years? (If no military service, answer "NO.") If	YES	NO
"YES," use item 16 to provide the date, explanation of the violation, place of occurrence, and the name and	YES	NO

address of the military authority or court involved.

11. Are you currently under charges for any violation of law? If "YES," use item 16 to provide the date, explanation of	YES	NO
the charges, place of occurrence, and the name and address of the police department or court involved.

12. During the last 5 years, have you been fired from any job for any reason, did you quit after being told that you	YES	NO
would be fired, did you leave any job by mutual agreement because of specific problems, or were you debarred	YES	NO

from Federal employment by the Office of Personnel Management or any other Federal agency? If "YES," use item
16 to provide the date, an explanation of the problem, reason for leaving, and the employer's name and address.

13. Are you delinquent on any Federal debt? (Includes delinquencies arising from Federal taxes, loans, overpayment	YES	NO
of benefits, and other debts to the U.S. Government, plus defaults of Federally guaranteed or insured loans such	YES	NO

as student and home mortgage loans.) If "YES," use item 16 to provide the type, length, and amount of the
delinquency or default, and steps that you are taking to correct the error or repay the debt.

U.S. Office of Personnel Management		Optional Form 306
	Revised October 2019
5 U.S.C. 1302, 3301, 3304, 3328 & 8716	Previous editions obsolete and unusable

Declaration for Federal Employment*	Form Approved:
	OMB No. 3206-0182

(*This form may also be used to assess fitness for federal contract employment)

Additional Questions

14. Do any of your relatives work for the agency or government organization to which you are submitting this form?

(Include: father, mother, husband, wife, son, daughter, brother, sister, uncle, aunt, first cousin, nephew, niece,YES NO

father-in-law, mother-in-law, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, brother-in-law, sister-in-law, stepfather, stepmother, stepson, stepdaughter, stepbrother, stepsister, half-brother, and half-sister.) If "YES," use item 16 to provide the relative's name, relationship, and the department, agency, or branch of the Armed Forces for which your relativeworks.

15. Do you receive, or have you ever applied for, retirement pay, pension, or other retired pay based on military,	YES	NO
Federal civilian, or District of Columbia Government service?

Continuation Space / Agency Optional Questions

16.Provide details requested in items 7 through 15 and 18c in the space below or on attached sheets. Be sure to identify attached sheets with

your name, Social Security Number, and item number, and to include ZIP Codes in all addresses. If any questions are printed below, please answer as instructed (these questions are specific to your position and your agency is authorized to ask them).

Certifications / Additional Questions

APPLICANT: If you are applying for a position and received a tentative/conditional job offer or have not yet been selected, carefully review your answers on this form and any attached sheets.

APPOINTEE: If you are being appointed, carefully review your answers on this form and any attached sheets, including any other application materials that your agency has attached to this form. If any information requires correction to be accurate as of the date you are signing, make changes on this form or the attachments and/or provide updated information on additional sheets, initialing and dating all changes and additions. When this form and all attached materials are accurate, read item 17, complete 17b, read 18, and answer 18a, 18b, and 18c as appropriate.

17.I certify that, to the best of my knowledge and belief, all of the information on and attached to this Declaration for Federal Employment, including any attached application materials, is true, correct, complete, and made in good faith. I understand that a false or fraudulent answer to any question or item on any part of this declaration or its attachments may be grounds for not hiring me, or for firing me after I begin work, and may be punishable by fine or imprisonment. I understand that any information I give may be investigated for purposes of determining eligibility for Federal employment as allowed by law or Presidential order. I consent to the release of information about my ability and fitness for Federal employment by employers, schools, law enforcement agencies, and other individuals and organizations to investigators, personnel specialists, and other authorized employees or representatives of the Federal Government. I understand that for financial or lending institutions, medical institutions, hospitals, health care professionals, and some other sources of information, a separate specific release may be needed, and I may be contacted for such a release at a later date.

17a.	Applicant's Signature:	Date:	Appointing Officer:
17a.	Applicant's Signature:	Date:	Enter Date of Appointment or Conversion
		(MM / DD / YYYY)	MM / DD / YYYY
17b.	Appointee's Signature:	Date:
		(MM / DD / YYYY)

18.Appointee (Only respond if you have been employed by the Federal Government before): Your elections of life insurance during previous Federal employment may affect your eligibility for life insurance during your new appointment. These questions are asked to help your personnel office make a correct determination.

18a. When did you leave your last Federal job?	Date:
	(MM / DD / YYYY)

18b. When you worked for the Federal Government the last time, did you waive Basic Life	YES	NO	DO NOT KNOW
Insurance or any type of optional life insurance?

18c. If you answered "YES" to item 18b, did you later cancel the waiver(s)? If your answer to item	YES	NO	DO NOT KNOW
18c is "NO," use item 16 to identify the type(s) of insurance for which waivers were not	YES	NO	DO NOT KNOW

canceled.


U.S. Office of Personnel Management			Optional Form 306
			Revised October 2019
5 U.S.C. 1302, 3301, 3304, 3328 & 8716		Previous editions obsolete and unusable

Click for OPM Optional 306 File

File Breakdown

Fact Name	Description
Purpose	The OPM Optional Form 306 is used to collect personal information for the purpose of employment in federal positions.
Eligibility	Both new applicants and existing federal employees may be required to complete this form during the hiring process.
Required Information	The form requires details such as citizenship status, military service, and any employment history that may pertain to eligibility for federal employment.
Confidentiality	Information provided on the form is protected under the Privacy Act of 1974, ensuring personal details remain confidential.
State-specific Considerations	While the OPM Optional Form 306 is a federal form and not state-specific, certain states may have their own supplementary forms related to employment laws.
Submission	The completed form should be submitted to the hiring agency during the application process or when prompted by agency representatives.

Guide to Using OPM Optional 306

After you have obtained the OPM Optional 306 form, you will need to complete it accurately and comprehensively to avoid any potential delays in processing. This form plays a crucial role in the employment process for federal jobs. Ensuring that all information is complete will smooth your onboarding experience.

Begin by carefully reading the instructions provided on the first page of the form. This will give you a clearer idea of what information is required.
Fill in your personal information in the designated sections. This typically includes your name, address, and contact details.
Complete the employment history section. Be prepared to provide details about your previous jobs, including names of employers, dates of employment, and a brief description of your responsibilities.
Next, address the personal history section. This may include questions related to your education, military service, and any relevant training that you have received.
Answer the questions regarding criminal history. Be honest in your responses, as this information will be considered during the vetting process.
Sign and date the form in the designated area. This confirmation indicates that the information you provided is complete and accurate.
Make a copy of the completed form for your records before submitting it. This can be helpful should any questions arise in the future.
Finally, submit the form according to the instructions given, whether it be by mail or electronically, depending on the submission requirements indicated.

Get Answers on OPM Optional 306

What is the OPM Optional 306 form?

The OPM Optional Form 306, also known as the Declaration for Federal Employment, is a document required by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) for individuals seeking employment with the federal government. This form collects personal information about the applicant to ensure eligibility for federal employment and adherence to various federal regulations.

Who needs to fill out the Optional Form 306?

Any individual applying for a job in the federal government must complete the Optional Form 306. This includes applicants for competitive and non-competitive positions, as well as those seeking internships or volunteer opportunities within federal agencies.

What information is required on the form?

The form requests a variety of personal details, including:

Your name and contact information
Your citizenship status
Employment history
Educational background
Military service records, if applicable
Information about any prior federal employment

This information helps federal agencies assess your qualifications and determine if you meet the necessary employment criteria.

How is the Optional Form 306 used in the hiring process?

The form assists employers in verifying an applicant’s qualifications and suitability for federal employment. It is often used in conjunction with other forms and background checks to ensure compliance with federal laws and policies. Furthermore, the information provided may be evaluated to determine if there are any disqualifying factors, such as specific criminal history or prior dismissals from federal positions.

Is the information on the Optional Form 306 confidential?

Yes, the information provided on the Optional Form 306 is considered confidential. Federal agencies are required to handle personal data securely and in accordance with privacy laws. Only authorized personnel involved in the hiring process may access this information.

What should I do if I make a mistake on the form?

If an error is discovered after submission, you should promptly notify the relevant human resources department of the agency where you applied. They can advise you on the best course of action, which might include submitting a corrected version or providing additional clarification regarding the mistake.

Where can I obtain the Optional Form 306?

The Optional Form 306 can be downloaded from the OPM website or directly from the website of the federal agency to which you are applying. It is typically available in PDF format for easy printing and completion.

Common mistakes

When filling out the OPM Optional 306 form, individuals often stumble over common mistakes that can lead to delays or complications in their application process. Understanding these pitfalls can help ensure a smoother experience. Here are seven frequent errors to look out for.

One mistake people often make is overlooking the section for prior federal service. It’s essential to list any previous federal employment accurately. Forgetting to include this information can lead to questions about your work history, potentially causing issues with your application.

Another common error involves misunderstanding the citizenship requirements. Applicants must be clear on their citizenship status. If this information is not correctly indicated, it can lead to disqualification from certain positions within federal service.

Some individuals tend to skim over the personal information section. Providing inaccurate data, such as an incorrect Social Security number or address, may complicate later background checks. It’s crucial to double-check this information before submission.

In addition, people might neglect to review the signature and date requirements. Failing to sign or date the form can result in it being rejected or returned. Always remember that these details are as important as the content itself.

Furthermore, applicants sometimes leave out the educational background section or fail to provide adequate detail. Including relevant degrees, certifications, and additional training can enhance the overall application, providing a clearer picture of qualifications.

Another frequent misstep is not being thorough when answering disqualifying questions. Respondents should take the time to consider each query carefully. Failing to disclose relevant information may have serious ramifications for the application.

Finally, a lack of attention to submission guidelines can lead to complications. It’s important to follow all instructions regarding where and how the form should be submitted. Ignoring these details can result in the application being delayed or improperly processed.

By being mindful of these common mistakes, applicants can significantly improve their chances of a smooth and successful application process when completing the OPM Optional 306 form.

Documents used along the form

The OPM Optional 306 form is a crucial document utilized by federal employees to give personal and employment-related information. Alongside this form, several other documents often come into play, each serving a unique purpose in the employment and hiring processes. Below is a list of commonly associated forms that may be required or beneficial to understand when dealing with federal employment.

SF-86 (Security Clearance Application) - This form collects information about an individual’s background to determine eligibility for access to classified information. It includes detailed questions about personal history, financial dealings, and foreign contacts.
SF-144 (Statement of Prior Federal Service) - Used to provide a record of prior federal employment. This helps the employing agency assess previous benefits and determine if any service credit is applicable.
SF-50 (Notification of Personnel Action) - This form serves as an official record of personnel actions, such as hiring, promotion, or separation from federal service. It details the employee's position and pay.
OF-306 (Declaration for Federal Employment) - Similar in name to the OPM Optional 306, this form specifically addresses an applicant's background and fitness to work for the federal government, covering issues such as criminal history and prior separations.
VA-Form 10-10EZ (Application for Health Benefits) - Used by veterans seeking health benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs, this form helps streamline access to medical care.
I-9 (Employment Eligibility Verification) - This document verifies an employee's identity and legal authorization to work in the United States. It requires proof of identity and employment eligibility from the new hire.
W-4 (Employee's Withholding Certificate) - This IRS form assists employers in determining the amount of federal income tax to withhold from employee pay, based on individual financial circumstances.
FMLA Certification (Family and Medical Leave Act Certification) - Used when an employee requests leave for medical or family reasons, this form requires healthcare provider verification of the need for leave.
Standard Form 181 (Ethnicity and Race Identification) - This form gathers demographic information regarding an individual's race and ethnicity, helping federal agencies comply with equal employment opportunity regulations.

Understanding these documents and how they relate to the OPM Optional 306 form can facilitate a more efficient employment process for all involved. Each of these forms contributes vital information, ensuring that both employees and employers have a clear and comprehensive overview of eligibility, history, and responsibilities within the federal employment framework.

Similar forms

SF-85: Questionnaire for Non-Sensitive Positions - This form collects information about an individual's background and history for positions that do not require access to classified information.
SF-86: Questionnaire for National Security Positions - Similar to the Optional 306, the SF-86 is used to gather extensive background details for individuals seeking positions requiring access to classified information.
SF-171: Application for Federal Employment - Like the Optional 306, the SF-171 collects personal information and qualifications for those applying for federal jobs, ensuring comprehensive background checks.
Form I-9: Employment Eligibility Verification - This document verifies an employee's identity and eligibility to work in the U.S., ensuring compliance with immigration laws, much like the Optional 306 verifies personal background details.
SF-15: Application for 10-Point Veteran Preference - This form is completed by veterans seeking employment preferences, requiring documentation similar to the Optional 306 for verification purposes.
OF-306: Declaration for Federal Employment - Developers of this form aimed to supplement the Optional 306 with additional questions about an individual's employment history and other qualifications.
EEO-1 Report: Equal Employment Opportunity Report - This form gathers demographic data from employers on their workforce, promoting equal opportunity, akin to how the Optional 306 ensures honesty and integrity in federal hiring.
Form 43: Employment Application for Individuals with Disabilities - Like the Optional 306, this application is designed to collect personal information to facilitate employment practices for individuals with disabilities.
VA Form 10-2850: Application for Physicians, Dentists, Podiatrists, and Optometrists - This application collects critical personal, educational, and professional background for applicants seeking positions in the Department of Veterans Affairs.
SF-50: Notification of Personnel Action - This document is used to record personnel actions for federal employees, capturing their work history, similar to the background checks performed via the Optional 306.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the OPM Optional 306 form, it's important to keep in mind several actions that can make the process smoother. Here’s a list of things to do and avoid:

Do: Read the instructions thoroughly before starting.
Do: Provide accurate and honest information.
Do: Review your responses for any errors before submission.
Do: Complete all relevant sections, even if some do not apply.
Do: Use clear and legible handwriting if filling it out by hand.

Don't: Leave any sections blank without a valid reason.
Don't: Use abbreviations or acronyms without first defining them.
Don't: Rush through the form; take your time to ensure quality.
Don't: Forget to sign and date the form before submission.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your form is filled out correctly and efficiently.

Misconceptions

The OPM Optional 306 form is an important document for federal employment, but many people hold misconceptions about it. Here are five common myths and the truths behind them:

Myth 1: The OPM Optional 306 form is only for new hires.
This is not true. While new employees are required to fill out this form, others can also be asked to complete it in various situations, such as when they change positions or are reinstated.
Myth 2: Completing the form is optional.
The name may suggest that the form is optional, but it is actually required for certain processes. Not submitting it when required can delay employment or other federal actions.
Myth 3: The form asks for sensitive information that should not be shared.
While the form does collect personal information, it is used to verify that applicants meet the qualifications needed for employment. Proper privacy measures are in place to protect the information.
Myth 4: You can fill out the form any way you want.
There are specific guidelines and sections that must be completed correctly. Inaccurate or incomplete information can result in issues down the line.
Myth 5: The Optional 306 form is no longer relevant.
This form is still very much in use. It plays a crucial role in the hiring process and continues to be a requirement for federal workplaces.

Understanding these misconceptions can help you navigate the job application process more effectively. If you have further questions about the OPM Optional 306 form, it’s best to consult official resources or a human resources professional.

Key takeaways

The OPM Optional 306 form is an important document for federal employment. Understanding its nuances can greatly streamline the hiring process. Here are the key takeaways regarding this form:

Purpose: The Optional 306 form is used to gather information regarding an applicant's background, particularly concerning any previous military service or federal employment.
Voluntary Submission: Completion of the form is voluntary; however, it is highly recommended as it aids in establishing eligibility for certain benefits and employment opportunities.
Accurate Reporting: It is essential to provide accurate information, as discrepancies can delay the hiring process or affect eligibility for employment.
Confidentiality: The information provided is treated with strict confidentiality and will be used solely for the purposes of evaluating the applicant's qualifications.
Signatures Matter: Ensure to sign and date the form. An unsigned form may be considered incomplete and could hinder progress in the application process.
Submission Methods: Applicants can submit the form electronically or in paper format, depending on the hiring agency's specific requirements.
Regular Updates: If any changes occur in personal circumstances after submission, promptly update the hiring agency. This includes changes to military status or prior federal employment.
Retain a Copy: Keep a copy of the completed form for your records. It can be helpful for future applications or employment verifications.

Utilizing the OPM Optional 306 form correctly can facilitate smoother processing during your application for federal employment. Familiarity with these key points can enhance your experience and ensure proper adherence to the requirements.