What to do When a Military Retiree Dies

Report a Retiree’s Death.

Though this is a difficult time, it’s crucial to report the death of a military retiree promptly.

Follow the steps below to report the death as soon as possible.

2. Gather:

  • Retiree’s name, social security number, and date of death
  • Manner of death: natural, suicide, accident, homicide
  • Retiree’s marital status upon death
  • Names, address of retiree’s designated beneficiaries or next of kin living and deceased

3. Complete a Notification of Death Fast Form. Defense Finance and Accounting Services (DFAS) stops monthly payments to prevent overpayment.  If you cannot complete the Notification of Death form, call DFAS at 800-321-1080.

4. Complete Received Forms. Within 7-10 business days after reporting the death to DFAS, expect a letter containing:

  • SF1174 Claim for Unpaid Compensation of Deceased Member of the Uniformed Service
  • Annuity account forms and instructions (if the decedent was enrolled in the Survivor Benefit Plan or the Retired Serviceman’s Family Protection Plan)

5. Return these forms with a copy of the retiree’s Death Certificate (that includes cause of death) to:

DFAS U.S. Military Retired Pay
P.O. Box 7130
London, KY 40742-7130
Fax: 800-469-6559

Should you need assistance, call the DFAS or allow Smart Cremation’s team to assist you today. Call: (503) 402-2578.

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Published On: April 23rd, 2014Categories: Articles