FAQ: What is the NCOER Signature Order

The Non-Commissioned Officer Evaluation Report (NCOER) is a vital tool in the U.S. Army. It assesses an NCO’s performance and potential. One of the most important parts of the NCOER process is the order of signatures. This ensures accuracy, fairness, and compliance with Army regulations.

Who Signs the NCOER?

Four key individuals sign the NCOER:

1. Rated NCO – The soldier being evaluated.
2. Rater – The immediate supervisor who assesses performance.
3. Senior Rater – A higher-ranking leader who evaluates long-term potential.
4. Reviewer – Ensures fairness and compliance with regulations.

Correct Order of Signatures

The order of signatures follows a strict sequence:

1. Rated NCO – Acknowledges the evaluation but does not have to agree with it.
2. Rater – Confirms their assessment of performance and attributes.
3. Senior Rater – Provides insights on leadership potential and future assignments.
4. Reviewer – Verifies compliance with Army policies and confirms fairness.

Why the Order Matters

Following the correct order is critical for maintaining:

• Integrity – Ensures evaluations are fair and free of bias.
• Compliance – Keeps the report in line with Army regulations.
• Transparency – Each person knows their role and responsibilities.
• Validity – Prevents issues that could challenge the report’s legitimacy.

Common Issues and How to Solve Them

• Missing Signatures – If a rater is unavailable, an alternate authorized official must sign.
• Signatures Out of Order – The report must be corrected before submission.
• Electronic Signatures – Can be used when in-person signing is not possible.
• Disagreements on Ratings – The Rated NCO’s signature only confirms they have seen the report, not that they agree.

Ensuring Compliance

• Leaders must be trained on the proper process.
• Units should have a checklist to verify signature order.
• Digital systems help streamline and track approvals.