AFMAN33-326 — Preparing Official Communications

AFMAN33-326 governs preparing official communications in manual and automated Air Force environments.

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  • Publication number: AFMAN33-326
  • Title: PREPARING OFFICIAL COMMUNICATIONS
  • Date: 2019-07-31

View AFMAN33-326 on armypubs.army.mil


AFMAN33-326 covers official memorandums, personal letters, organizational letterhead, seals, and other written communication types. It requires compliance with prescribed formats, plain-language principles, records management, and applicable waiver procedures.

Applies to: This manual applies to all civilian employees and uniformed members of the Regular Air Force, Air Force Reserve, and Air National Guard.

Topics covered

  • Official memorandums
  • Personal letters
  • Organizational letterhead
  • Letterhead seals
  • Plain-language writing
  • Written communication types
  • Waiver authorities

Questions and answers

What correspondence should use memorandums?

Use memorandums for correspondence within the DAF, with the President and the White House staff, and to send routine material to other Federal agencies.

When should official letters be used?

Use letters for correspondence with individuals outside the U.S. Government, formal correspondence with officials of other Federal agencies, and for communications that require a personal touch (e.g., thanks, congratulations, condolences, and acknowledgments).

How should paragraphs be formatted in official correspondence?

Single space paragraphs and align text to the left margin. Double-space between paragraphs and subparagraphs.

What letterhead is required for official memorandums and personal letters?

Use official letterhead appropriate to the signee and content. Consult the servicing judge advocate for correspondence external to the DAF.

What restrictions apply to the seal on organizational letterhead?

The DoW seal is one inch in diameter. Align the seal 1/2-inch from the upper left and top edge of the paper. Do not use any other emblem, decorative device, or distinguishing insignia.

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