Adverse FITREPs and Referred Reports

Start Here If You Are New to Adverse FITREPs

Per MCO 1610.7BMCO 1610.7B, an adverse FITREP contains marks below standard (A through C in any of the six performance attributes), a Most Undesirable Marine Evaluated (MUE) comparative assessment in Section G, or adverse content in Section H or I. Adverse reports trigger specific procedural protections. The RS must counsel the MRO before submission. The MRO has the right to submit an addendum responding to the adverse content. The report becomes a referred report routing through additional review chains. Adverse FITREPs significantly impact promotion eligibility, retention decisions, special duty selection, and monitor assignments. Body composition outcomes per MARADMIN 066/26MARADMIN 066/26 paragraph 3.g.3 (exceeded WHtR and maximum body fat without waiver) also render the report adverse. Per MCO 1610.7BMCO 1610.7B and MARADMIN 066/26MARADMIN 066/26.

This page walks you through adverse FITREPs from your seat as a General Marine. By the end you will know.

• What constitutes an adverse FITREP per MCO 1610.7BMCO 1610.7B
• The mandatory RS counseling before submission
• The MRO addendum opportunity
• Referred report routing and additional review
• Body composition adverse outcomes per MARADMIN 066/26MARADMIN 066/26
• Impact on promotion, retention, and assignments
• The transition from adverse FITREP to PERB appeal

Every fact on this page comes from MCO 1610.7BMCO 1610.7B, MARADMIN 209/26MARADMIN 209/26, MARADMIN 634/23MARADMIN 634/23, MARADMIN 066/26MARADMIN 066/26, and HQMC PES guidance.

What Constitutes an Adverse FITREP

Per MCO 1610.7BMCO 1610.7B, the following render a FITREP adverse.

Below-Standard Marks

Any mark of A, B, or C in any of the six performance attributes (Mission Accomplishment, Individual Character, Leadership, Intellect and Wisdom, Fulfillment of Evaluation Responsibilities, Effectiveness Under Stress).

MUE Comparative Assessment

A Most Undesirable Marine Evaluated (MUE) mark in Section G's comparative assessment.

Adverse Section H or I Content

Specific adverse comments in Section H (additional comments) or Section I (directed comments). Common adverse Section I triggers include.

• Body composition outside standards without waiver (per MARADMIN 066/26MARADMIN 066/26 paragraph 3.g.3).
• PFT or CFT failure with documented adverse impact.
• Documented misconduct (e.g., NJP, court-martial, financial irresponsibility).
• Specific policy-driven adverse statements.

Significant Negative Patterns

Even without specific adverse marks, a pattern of consistently low marks below the RS's profile average can be treated as adverse if accompanied by negative narrative content.

60-Day Submission Window for Adverse Reports

Per MCO 1610.7BMCO 1610.7B, adverse reports submit within 60 days after the end of the reporting period (twice the 30-day window for normal reports). The extended window accommodates the procedural protections required for adverse reports.

• Mandatory pre-submission RS counseling.
• MRO addendum opportunity.
• Additional review at higher echelons.
• Referred report routing.
• Quality control review at PES.

The A-PES and FITREP Administration leaf covers submission timelines in detail.

Adverse Reports Cannot Be Omitted (MARADMIN 209/26)

Per MARADMIN 209/26MARADMIN 209/26 paragraph 3.b (5 May 2026), the omission of the annual report is NOT authorized when the report would be adverse.

This rule clarifies the omission framework in MARADMIN 634/23MARADMIN 634/23 and protects the integrity of the adverse FITREP process. Adverse content goes on the record on the natural reporting occasion. Reporting officials cannot use the 180-day omission window to avoid documenting adversity.

Post-Omission Adversity

Per MARADMIN 209/26MARADMIN 209/26 paragraph 3.b, when the annual report is omitted (because no adversity was known at the time) and adversity later occurs, the adversity will be documented on the next natural reporting occasion in accordance with Chapter 5 of MCO 1610.7BMCO 1610.7B.

Examples

• The RS knows in advance the FITREP will be adverse. The annual report cannot be omitted. The adverse report submits within the 60-day window.
• The RS omits the annual report because no adversity was known. Adverse conduct surfaces afterward. The next natural reporting occasion (CR, CD, CS, SP, or the next AN) documents the adversity per Chapter 5 of MCO 1610.7BMCO 1610.7B.

The FITREP Reporting Cycle and Report Types leaf covers the broader omission framework.

Mandatory RS Counseling Before Submission

Per MCO 1610.7BMCO 1610.7B, when the RS intends to submit an adverse FITREP, the RS must counsel the MRO before submission.

Counseling Content

• Specific adverse marks or content.
• Specific events or patterns supporting the adverse rating.
• Opportunity for the MRO to provide context or response.
• Disclosure of the MRO's right to submit an addendum.

Documentation

The counseling is documented in writing. The MRO acknowledges the counseling occurred (acknowledgment is procedural and does not signify agreement).

Timing

The counseling occurs before the FITREP is submitted to PES. Failure to provide adverse counseling is a procedural violation that may support a PERB appeal.

MRO Addendum

Per MCO 1610.7BMCO 1610.7B, when the FITREP is adverse, the MRO has the right to submit an addendum responding to the adverse content.

Purpose of the Addendum

The MRO's opportunity to.

• Provide context not captured by the RS.
• Document mitigating circumstances.
• Identify factual disputes.
• Present supporting evidence.

Addendum Format

Per MCO 1610.7BMCO 1610.7B.

• Written and signed by the MRO.
• Submitted within the time limit specified in the order (typically a defined window after FITREP receipt).
• Routed through the same chain as the FITREP.
• Becomes part of the official record alongside the FITREP.

What the Addendum Cannot Do

The addendum does NOT change the RS's marks. The MRO addendum sits alongside the FITREP, providing the MRO's perspective. Selection boards see both.

Best Practice for the MRO Addendum

• Stay factual. Avoid emotional or accusatory language.
• Focus on substantive content.
• Provide specific examples and dates.
• Reference relevant evidence (counseling records, awards, peer feedback).
• Keep concise. Long addenda lose impact.

Referred Report Routing

Per MCO 1610.7BMCO 1610.7B, an adverse FITREP becomes a referred report. The referred report.

• Routes through the standard RS-RO chain.
• Triggers additional review at higher echelons (often Battalion Commander or General Officer).
• May trigger Third Officer Sighter (TOS) requirements.
• Receives heightened quality control review at PES.

Why Referred Reports Get Extra Review

Adverse FITREPs significantly impact the MRO. The Marine Corps applies extra procedural review to ensure the report is fair, accurate, and procedurally complete.

Quality Control by PES

PES at HQMC M&RA reviews referred reports for procedural compliance. PES may return the report to the unit if procedural requirements (counseling, addendum opportunity, proper documentation) were not met.

Body Composition Adverse Outcomes (MARADMIN 066/26)

Per MARADMIN 066/26MARADMIN 066/26 paragraph 3.g.3, when the MRO exceeds the WHtR standard AND the maximum allowable body fat standard (and has not been granted a BCP assignment waiver), the report shall be rendered adverse.

The Specific Section I Directed Comment

"Directed Comment. Sect A, Item 8e and 8f: The MRO completed a body composition evaluation with a height measurement of XX.X inches and waist measurement of XX.X inches. The MRO's body fat percentage was XX percent using the multi-site tape test and XX.X percent using BIA. MRO is not within body composition standards."

Adverse Status

The body composition adverse outcome triggers all the procedural protections of an adverse FITREP. Mandatory RS counseling. MRO addendum opportunity. Referred report routing.

When Body Composition Is NOT Adverse

Per MARADMIN 066/26MARADMIN 066/26.

• MRO within WHtR standards (paragraph 3.g.1).
• MRO exceeds WHtR but within body fat through BIA or tape (paragraph 3.g.2).
• MRO granted reevaluation waiver or exemption (paragraph 3.g.4).
• MRO granted BCP assignment waiver (paragraph 3.g.5).

The Body Composition Reporting on Performance Evaluations leaf covers all five MARADMIN 066/26MARADMIN 066/26 directed comments in detail.

Impact of Adverse FITREPs

Promotion

Adverse FITREPs significantly affect promotion board outcomes. A single adverse FITREP can.

• Remove the MRO from competitive selection.
• Trigger non-recommendation by selection boards.
• Affect promotion by-name list status.

Retention and Reenlistment

Retention authorities review FITREP history. A pattern of adverse reports can.

• Disqualify reenlistment.
• Affect SRB eligibility.
• Trigger administrative separation review.

Special Duty Selection

B-billet selection (Recruiter, Drill Instructor, MSG, MARSOC) reviews FITREP history. Adverse FITREPs typically disqualify candidates.

Assignment Monitor Decisions

Monitors review FITREP history during slating. Adverse FITREPs limit the available pool of competitive assignments.

Cumulative Pattern

A single adverse FITREP is recoverable with sustained subsequent strong performance. A pattern of adverse FITREPs is much harder to overcome.

From Adverse FITREP to PERB Appeal

If the MRO believes the adverse FITREP contains substantive error, the MRO can appeal to the Performance Evaluation Review Board (PERB).

Grounds for PERB Appeal

• Factual error in the FITREP content.
• Procedural error (missing counseling, no addendum opportunity).
• Bias by the RS or RO.
• Inconsistency with the RS's profile or unit pattern.

Time Limits

The MRO must file the PERB appeal within the time limit specified in MCO 1610.7BMCO 1610.7B (typically a defined window after FITREP submission to PES).

What PERB Can Do

PERB can.

• Direct correction of factual errors.
• Order removal of the FITREP from the record.
• Direct remand for procedural cure.
• Affirm the FITREP if no substantive error is found.

What PERB Cannot Do

PERB does NOT substitute its judgment for the RS's marks. PERB does not re-mark the FITREP. PERB only addresses substantive errors.

The FITREP Appeals (PERB Process) leaf covers the appeal framework in detail.

Best Practice for Marines Receiving an Adverse FITREP

Stay Calm

The adverse FITREP is a setback. It is recoverable with disciplined response.

Read Carefully

Read every section. Understand exactly what is adverse and why.

Verify Procedure

Confirm the RS counseled you before submission. Confirm you had the addendum opportunity. Procedural failures support PERB appeals.

Submit a Substantive Addendum

Use the addendum to provide context. Stay factual. Avoid emotion.

Coordinate With Legal and S-1

For adverse content with potential UCMJ implications, coordinate with unit Legal. For procedural questions, coordinate with the S-1 PES Manager.

Plan the Recovery

Identify what you need to do in the next reporting period. Talk to your new RS about expectations. Document your improvement.

Decide on PERB Appeal

Within the time limit, decide whether to file a PERB appeal. Consult Legal and PES.

Common Questions Marines Ask

What makes a FITREP adverse?

Marks of A, B, or C in any performance attribute, an MUE in Section G, adverse Section H or I content (including body composition outside standards per MARADMIN 066/26MARADMIN 066/26 paragraph 3.g.3), or significant negative patterns.

Is my RS required to counsel me before submitting an adverse FITREP?

Yes. Per MCO 1610.7BMCO 1610.7B, mandatory pre-submission counseling. The counseling is documented and signed.

What is an MRO addendum?

The MRO's written response to adverse content. Submitted within the time limit. Becomes part of the official record alongside the FITREP. Does NOT change the RS's marks.

How long do I have to submit an addendum?

Within the time limit specified in MCO 1610.7BMCO 1610.7B (typically a defined window after FITREP receipt). Coordinate with the unit S-1 PES Manager for current deadlines.

Does an adverse FITREP affect my promotion?

Yes, significantly. Adverse FITREPs can remove competitive selection eligibility, trigger non-recommendation by boards, and affect by-name list status.

Does an adverse FITREP affect reenlistment?

Yes. Retention authorities review FITREP history. A pattern of adverse FITREPs can disqualify reenlistment or affect SRB eligibility.

Can I recover from an adverse FITREP?

Yes, with sustained strong subsequent performance. A single adverse FITREP is recoverable. A pattern is much harder to overcome.

When does body composition trigger an adverse FITREP?

Per MARADMIN 066/26MARADMIN 066/26 paragraph 3.g.3, when the MRO exceeds the WHtR standard AND the maximum allowable body fat standard without a BCP assignment waiver. The Body Composition Reporting on Performance Evaluations leaf covers all five MARADMIN 066/26MARADMIN 066/26 scenarios.

What can I do if I believe the adverse FITREP contains errors?

File a PERB appeal within the time limit. Grounds include factual error, procedural error, or bias. The FITREP Appeals (PERB Process) leaf covers the framework.

Should I refuse to acknowledge an adverse FITREP?

No. Acknowledgment is procedural and does not waive your appeal rights or the addendum opportunity. Refusing to acknowledge complicates the record without changing the FITREP outcome.

Where to Go for Help

Routing by Issue

• Adverse FITREP procedural questions. The unit S-1 PES Manager.
• MRO addendum preparation. The unit S-1 and Legal.
• PERB appeal preparation. The FITREP Appeals (PERB Process) leaf, unit S-1, and Legal.
• Body composition adverse outcomes. The Body Composition Reporting on Performance Evaluations leaf.
• HQMC PES escalation. smb_hqmc_a-pes@usmc.mil.
• Unit Legal for adverse FITREP with UCMJ implications. Through the chain of command.

Where to Go Next on This Site

• Performance Evaluation landing page lists all topics.
• Performance Evaluation Overview and Authorities covers the framework.
• FITREP Sections and Marking covers Sections A through K in detail.
• FITREP Reporting Cycle and Report Types covers report types including referred reports.
• Reporting Senior and Reviewing Officer Roles covers RS and RO procedural duties.
• Body Composition Reporting on Performance Evaluations covers MARADMIN 066/26MARADMIN 066/26 directed comments.
• FITREP Appeals (PERB Process) covers the appeal framework.
• Master Brief Sheet (MBS) covers MBS visibility of adverse reports.

Related Roles

• Leaders coach Marines on response strategy when receiving an adverse FITREP.
• Admin at S-1 supports MRO addendum submission and tracks adverse FITREP procedural compliance.
• Commanders ensure mandatory counseling and addendum opportunity per MCO 1610.7BMCO 1610.7B.

An adverse FITREP contains below-standard marks (A-C), MUE comparative assessment, or adverse Section H/I content. Per MARADMIN 066/26MARADMIN 066/26 paragraph 3.g.3, body composition outside standards without waiver triggers adverse rendering. Mandatory RS counseling before submission. MRO addendum opportunity. Referred report routing. Significant impact on promotion, retention, special duty, and assignments. PERB appeal available within time limits for substantive errors.