Overview
Anyone may submit a complaint, allegation, or request for assistance to any IG concerning matters of Army or Air Force interest. IGs will encourage soldiers and airmen to first discuss complaints, allegations, or request for assistance with their commander or chain of command, as provided by regulation. If a soldier or airman does not wish to discuss with their chain of command, the IG will accept the IG assistance request unless specific redress procedures are available.
Is my complaint IG appropriate?
Before you contact the IG:
- Be sure you have a problem, not just a peeve.
- Give your chain of command a chance to solve the problem.
- Soldiers and Airmen will be encouraged to discuss their problems or issues first with their commanders. Issues are normally offered to subordinate commanders for action rather than conduct an IG Investigation.
- If IG assistance is needed, contact your local IG first.
- Be honest & do not provide misleading information.
- Remember that IGs are not policy makers; they only make recommendations and advise the Commander.
- Information provided to an IG is NEVER “Off the Record”.
- IGs will make every effort to keep all interactions and information confidential…BUT confidentiality cannot be guaranteed.
- Anonymous and third party complaints can be filed with the IG, but no feedback will be given to those who file.
If you do have an IG appropriate issue:
Be advised the amount and detail of the information you provide to the IG is up to you. However, if you do not provide enough information, it may be impossible to refer, respond to, or investigate your complaint or provide the assistance that you request.
It will greatly expedite the processing of your request for assistance or the investigatory actions taken to resolve your allegations of wrongdoing, if you identify to the IG exactly what you would like the IG system to do for you. Also, if you provide the IG with a list of witnesses, copies of any hard evidence or written documentation that you have to support your case and a list of other offices/agencies you have contacted regarding your issues when you contact the IG, it will greatly assist in the resolution of your issues.