Understanding the OF-306 Form (for Federal Job Seekers)

The following post explores Understanding the OF-306 Form.

If you’re applying for a federal job, chances are you’ll be asked to complete an OF-306 (Declaration for Federal Employment) at some point during the hiring process.

Read: Best Federal Resume Writing Services

Related: Documents Needed for Applying to Federal Jobs

While it might feel like just another piece of paperwork, this form plays a key role in determining your eligibility and suitability for federal service.

Here’s what you need to know.

OF-306 Form Overview

The OF-306 is a standard government form used to collect personal, employment, and background information from federal job applicants.

In essence, the form acts as a checkpoint in the hiring process, confirming that you meet the basic requirements for federal employment before the agency invests further in your candidacy. Federal agencies use it to verify your identity, confirm your eligibility to work in the federal government, and assess any potential issues that might affect your appointment.

The OF-306 is tied directly to suitability and security determinations, which means it can influence whether you move forward in the hiring process. Even if you’ve already submitted a detailed Federal Resume or answered background questions in USAJOBS, this form serves as an official, signed declaration.

Who Needs to Fill It Out?

Anyone who applies for a federal job may be required to complete an OF-306, regardless of grade level or position type. It may apply to permanent, temporary, seasonal, term, and even certain contractor roles.

In other words, the OF-306 is a universal form across federal employment categories, not just for high-level or long-term appointments. Whether you’re applying for an entry-level internship, a short-term census role, or a senior executive position, agencies rely on this form to ensure consistency in how they review applicants. This broad requirement is why it often comes up early in the hiring process, even before a final decision is made.

When Do You Complete the Form?

You’ll usually be asked to complete the OF-306 once your application has passed an initial review and you’re moving forward in the hiring process.

Agencies may require it before extending a tentative or final job offer so they can conduct the necessary suitability checks. In some cases, if the form hasn’t already been collected, you’ll be asked to provide it during onboarding as part of your new employee paperwork.

Completing the OF-306 ensures your eligibility is verified before a formal offer is made. Providing accurate information helps prevent delays in your application or onboarding, while omissions or inconsistencies can trigger additional review or disqualification.

How to Complete the OF-306

When completing the OF-306, it’s important to follow the prompts and provide accurate information.

The form asks for personal details, such as your name, Social Security number, date of birth, and citizenship status, as well as information about Selective Service registration (for males born after December 31, 1959), military service, prior federal employment, and certain background questions.

Be sure to answer every question honestly, use “N/A” for any items that don’t apply, and attach additional sheets if you need more space to explain a response. If you have any questions while completing the form, you can contact the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) for guidance.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, I hope this article helps you better understand the OF-306 form. By filling it out carefully, you’re protecting your eligibility and keeping your federal job application on track.

If you’re ready to build your new two-page Federal Resume, my team and I are here to support you. Please use the Contact Us or Submit Your Resume for a risk-free evaluation.  JobStars is an A+ BBB-rated service that has earned multiple consecutive Complaint Free Awards. We look forward to hearing from you!

Download the OF-306 Form (PDF)