Article 139 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) allows commanders to investigate claims filed by victims of a wrongful taking or the willful destruction of property committed by soldiers and, if substantiated, to direct finance to pay the victim directly from the wrongdoer's pay. If an individual offender cannot be determined, Article 139 authorizes commanders to direct finance to withhold the pay of all members of a unit who were present at the scene of the incident. Article 139 is entirely separate and distinct from disciplinary action taken under other sections of the UCMJ and is distinct and separate from tort or personnel claims.

Proper claimants include any individual (Civilian or Service Member), a business entity, a government (State, Territorial or Local), or a non-profit organization.

Claims may be filed against "members of the armed forces," including active-duty military personnel, retired military personnel who were on active duty when the claim was filed, and Reserve and National Guard personnel when their duty status subjects them to the UCMJ.

To file an Article 139 claim within 90 days of the incident as required, contact your local Office of the Staff Judge Advocate. A list of claims offices can be found here.