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.