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Outline

The DD Form 2656-8 is an essential document for service members who are navigating their retirement benefits, specifically related to the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP). This form serves a critical purpose: it helps establish and maintain accurate records regarding a retiree’s marital and dependency status. By collecting information about eligible beneficiaries, the form ensures that the correct coverage and premium costs are applied to a retiree's pay account. Notably, the SBP automatically covers members with spouses and/or children unless they choose otherwise before retirement. This means that understanding the details on the DD 2656-8 is vital to avoid potential discrepancies in benefits. Completing this form accurately can prevent issues with survivor annuity payments and ensure that family members are recognized as eligible beneficiaries. It’s important to note that while providing this information is voluntary, failing to do so may lead to incorrect deductions from a retiree's pay. The form also emphasizes the significance of keeping the Defense Finance and Accounting Service informed about any changes in marital status or dependent information. Thus, the DD Form 2656-8 is not just a bureaucratic requirement; it plays a crucial role in safeguarding the financial well-being of military families after a service member retires.

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Form Information

Fact Name Fact Description
Form Purpose The DD Form 2656-8 is used to determine marital and dependency status for the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP).
OMB Approval The form is approved by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) under number 0704-0569, with approval expiring on July 31, 2023.
Privacy Act Statement The information collected is governed by various laws including 5 U.S.C. 301 and 10 U.S.C. Chapters 53, 61, and others.
Disclosure Requirement Providing the requested information is voluntary; however, failure to do so may lead to incorrect SBP deductions.
Automatic Coverage Members with a spouse or children automatically receive SBP coverage at the maximum rate unless they elect otherwise.
Submission Address The completed form should be sent to the Defense Finance and Accounting Service at a specified Indianapolis address.
Dependency Information The form requires information about dependents, including names, Social Security numbers, and dates of birth.

Detailed Guide for Filling Out Dd 2656 8

Completing the DD Form 2656-8 is essential for establishing and maintaining accurate records regarding survivor benefits. This form gathers information about your marital status and dependent children to ensure proper coverage under the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP). Follow the steps below to fill out the form correctly.

  1. Begin with the member's name. Fill in your last name, first name, and middle initial in the designated space.
  2. Enter your Social Security Number in the appropriate field.
  3. Provide your date of birth in the format YYYYMMDD.
  4. Indicate whether you are married by checking "Yes" or "No." If you check "Yes," proceed to the next step.
  5. If married, fill in your spouse's name, including their last name, first name, and middle initial.
  6. Input your spouse's Social Security Number.
  7. Provide your spouse's date of birth in the format YYYYMMDD.
  8. Enter the date of your marriage in the format YYYYMMDD.
  9. List the place of marriage, including the city, county, and state.
  10. Indicate if you have dependent children by checking "Yes" or "No." If you check "Yes," complete the following steps.
  11. For each dependent child under age 22, or over age 22 and incapable of self-support due to a disability, provide the child's name, including last name, first name, and middle initial. Repeat this for all eligible children.
  12. Sign the form as the retiree in the designated area.
  13. Provide your Social Security Number again in the appropriate field.
  14. Input your date of birth in the format YYYYMMDD.
  15. Specify your relationship to each dependent child listed (Natural, Step, Adopted, Foster).
  16. Have a witness sign the form in the designated area.
  17. Include the date the witness signed in the format YYYYMMDD.

Once the form is completed, it should be returned to the Defense Finance and Accounting Service at the address provided on the form. Ensure that all information is accurate to avoid any issues with SBP coverage and deductions from your retired pay.

Obtain Answers on Dd 2656 8

  1. What is the purpose of the DD Form 2656-8?

    The DD Form 2656-8 is primarily used to gather information about a service member's marital and dependency status. This information is essential for establishing and maintaining an accurate record of a retired pay account. The form helps ensure that the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) coverage is correctly assigned based on the member's current family situation.

  2. Who needs to fill out the DD Form 2656-8?

    All service members who have retired or transferred after September 21, 1972, and have a spouse or dependent children should complete this form. It is particularly important for those who did not provide a valid SBP election at the time of retirement. Completing the form allows the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) to accurately assess SBP coverage and premium costs.

  3. What happens if I do not submit the DD Form 2656-8?

    Failure to submit the DD Form 2656-8 may lead to incorrect deductions from your retired pay. Additionally, it could cause complications in establishing eligibility for future survivor benefits. The form is voluntary, but providing the required information is crucial for ensuring that your SBP coverage reflects your current family situation.

  4. How do I submit the DD Form 2656-8?

    Once you have completed the DD Form 2656-8, you should send it to the following address:

    • Defense Finance and Accounting Service
    • U.S. Military Retirement Pay
    • 8899 E. 56th Street
    • Indianapolis, IN 46249-1200

    Ensure that all required sections are filled out accurately to avoid delays in processing your information.

  5. What information do I need to provide on the DD Form 2656-8?

    You will need to provide personal details, including your name, Social Security Number, date of birth, and information about your marital status and dependent children. Specifically, you must indicate whether you are married, list your spouse’s name and details, and provide information about any dependent children under the age of 22 or those with disabilities. This information is vital for determining the appropriate SBP coverage.

Common mistakes

Filling out the DD 2656-8 form can be a straightforward process, but many individuals make common mistakes that can lead to complications. One frequent error is not providing the correct Social Security Number. This number is crucial for identifying the member's account and ensuring accurate processing. If the number is incorrect, it can result in delays or mismanagement of benefits.

Another common mistake involves the marital status section. Some individuals fail to clearly indicate whether they are married or not. If the answer is “yes,” but the spouse’s information is incomplete or missing, it can cause issues with eligibility and coverage amounts. It’s essential to double-check that all required details about the spouse, including their name and date of marriage, are filled out accurately.

Many people also overlook the section regarding dependent children. If a retiree has dependent children, they must provide their information, including names and dates of birth. Failing to include these details can lead to incorrect calculations of survivor benefits and may affect future payments.

In addition, some individuals neglect to sign the form. A signature is necessary to validate the information provided. Without it, the form may be considered incomplete and returned for correction, causing unnecessary delays in processing.

Another issue arises when retirees do not notify the Defense Finance and Accounting Service of any changes in their marital or dependency status. If a retiree gets divorced or a child ages out of dependency, these changes must be reported promptly. Failure to do so can result in incorrect deductions from retired pay or complications in survivor benefit payments.

Many individuals also rush through the form without reviewing it thoroughly. This can lead to simple mistakes, such as typos or missing information. Taking the time to carefully review the completed form before submission can help avoid these common pitfalls.

Lastly, some retirees may not be aware of the importance of submitting the form to the correct address. The completed DD 2656-8 must be sent to the Defense Finance and Accounting Service at the specified address. Sending it to the wrong location can cause significant delays in processing, potentially affecting benefits.

Documents used along the form

The DD Form 2656-8 is essential for establishing Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) coverage. However, several other documents often accompany it to ensure a complete and accurate submission. Below is a list of these forms, each serving a specific purpose in the process.

  • DD Form 2656: This is the primary form for making an SBP election. It collects information about the retiree's marital status and dependents, allowing for proper coverage selection.
  • DD Form 214: This form serves as a Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty. It provides essential details about the service member's military history, which may be necessary for processing retirement benefits.
  • DD Form 1172-2: This document is used to enroll eligible family members in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS). It confirms the eligibility of dependents for military benefits.
  • SF 2809: This is the Health Benefits Election Form. It allows retirees to enroll in or change their health insurance plans, which can affect overall benefit planning.
  • Form W-4P: This form is used to withhold federal income tax from pension payments. Retirees must complete it to ensure proper tax deductions from their benefits.
  • Form SSA-21: This form is used to apply for Social Security benefits. It may be relevant for retirees considering how their military benefits interact with Social Security.
  • DD Form 2656-7: This form is the Verification for Survivor Annuity. It helps verify the eligibility of survivors for continued benefits after the retiree's death.
  • Form 10-10EZ: This is the Application for Health Benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs. It allows veterans to apply for healthcare services and benefits.
  • DD Form 1300: This form is used to report a service member’s death. It is crucial for initiating survivor benefits and ensuring that the correct individuals receive their entitlements.

Using these documents in conjunction with the DD Form 2656-8 helps streamline the process of establishing and maintaining survivor benefits. Properly completing and submitting all required forms ensures that beneficiaries receive the support they are entitled to without unnecessary delays.

Similar forms

The DD Form 2656-8 is essential for establishing and maintaining the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) coverage. Several other documents serve similar purposes in managing benefits, eligibility, and family status. Here’s a list of those documents:

  • DD Form 2656 - This form is used for the initial election of SBP coverage at retirement. It captures marital and dependency status, similar to the DD Form 2656-8.
  • DD Form 214 - This document provides a summary of a service member's military service. It can impact eligibility for various benefits, including SBP.
  • DD Form 149 - Used to apply for a correction of military records, this form may help rectify any discrepancies in SBP coverage or beneficiary status.
  • SF 2809 - This form is for health benefits enrollment. It requires information about dependents, similar to what is needed for SBP coverage.
  • SF 2810 - This is used to report changes in family status for Federal Employees' Group Life Insurance (FEGLI). It also requires details about dependents.
  • VA Form 21-526EZ - This application for disability compensation requires information about dependents and marital status, akin to the DD Form 2656-8.
  • DD Form 1172-2 - This form is for obtaining a military ID for dependents. It confirms eligibility and dependency status, which is crucial for SBP.
  • DD Form 1300 - This report of casualty provides information on the deceased service member and their beneficiaries, directly impacting SBP payouts.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the DD Form 2656-8, there are important things to keep in mind. Here’s a list of what you should and shouldn’t do:

  • Do read the instructions carefully before starting.
  • Do provide accurate information, especially your Social Security Number.
  • Do check your entries for errors before submitting the form.
  • Do include all eligible family members when listing dependents.
  • Don’t leave any required fields blank; this could delay processing.
  • Don’t submit the form without your signature; it’s essential for validity.
  • Don’t forget to keep a copy of the completed form for your records.

Following these guidelines can help ensure your form is processed smoothly and accurately.

Misconceptions

Here are four common misconceptions about the DD Form 2656-8, which deals with the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP):

  • It is an SBP election form. Many people believe that the DD Form 2656-8 is used to elect SBP coverage. In reality, this form is simply for providing information about your marital and dependency status to ensure accurate records. It does not serve as an election form.
  • Submission is mandatory. Some think that completing and submitting this form is compulsory. While it is encouraged to ensure correct SBP coverage, providing the information is voluntary. However, not submitting it may lead to incorrect deductions from your retired pay.
  • Only married members need to fill it out. There is a misconception that only those with a spouse must complete the form. This is not true. All retirees, regardless of marital status, should provide information about any eligible dependents, including children.
  • It only affects current benefits. Many believe that the information on this form only impacts immediate benefits. In fact, the data provided can influence long-term survivor benefits and eligibility for future payments.

Key takeaways

Understanding the DD Form 2656-8 is essential for military retirees. This form is used to ensure that the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) is correctly set up for eligible family members. Here are some key takeaways about filling out and using this form:

  • Purpose: The form helps determine marital and dependency status for accurate retired pay accounting.
  • Voluntary Disclosure: Providing the required information is voluntary, but failing to do so may lead to incorrect deductions from retired pay.
  • Automatic Coverage: Members with a spouse or children automatically receive SBP coverage unless they decline it before retirement.
  • Eligibility: The form is not an election form; it lists eligible beneficiaries for SBP.
  • Accurate Information: Ensure that all information about dependents is accurate to avoid issues with survivor annuity payments.
  • Signature Required: The retiree must sign the form, confirming the information provided is correct.
  • Submit to the Right Place: Send the completed form to the Defense Finance and Accounting Service at the specified address.
  • Social Security Number: This number is necessary to identify the member's account and apply the correct coverage.
  • Time to Complete: Filling out the form typically takes about 15 minutes.
  • Stay Informed: Keep a copy of the form for your records and stay updated on any changes in your marital status or dependents.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your SBP coverage is correctly established and maintained for your family’s benefit.