DFAS Survivor SBP Newsletter
The DFAS Survivor SBP Newsletter is published twice a year (spring and fall) and focuses on news of special interest to survivors to keep you informed on what’s happening with the Survivor Benefit Plan.
Survivor SBP Newsletter - Spring 2026
Click here to download a PDF of the Spring 2026 newsletter
Retired and Annuitant Pay Director’s Message
Welcome to the Spring 2026 SBP Survivor Newsletter
Active Duty/Line of Duty Survivors Spotlight Spring 2026: Can You Help Us Spread the Word About the SBP Optional Child Annuity Changes?
In 2023, the law changed to allow SBP annuitant to receive benefits from both SBP and the VA (DIC spell out). There are families and surviving spouses eligible to receive SBP, that we have not heard from. Please help us spread the word to those families, surviving spouses or children who may be eligible to receive Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) payments.
From Our Partners: Join Us for the Defense Department’s Survivor Symposium on June 12, 2026
The Survivor Symposium series underscores the Defense Department’s commitment to providing support for survivors of active-duty deaths.
Don't Miss It! AskDFAS Tips Video to Help SBP Annuitants and Survivors
We want to ensure you know about a fantastic resource that can make managing your account simpler: the “AskDFAS Tips” video on the DFAS YouTube channel.
Easier Access for SBP Annuitants: DFAS411 Phone Menu Enhancements
We're excited to share updates to the DFAS Customer Care Phone Menu (1-888-332-7411) to make it easier for you, as an SBP annuitant, to reach the right representative for your needs.
Did You Know? Survivor SBP Newsletter Spring 2026
We recognize that Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) annuity pay is complex and certain aspects can be difficult to understand. In this issue of the DFAS Survivor SBP Newsletter, we will share a few helpful tips for survivors.
Annual School Certification: Time to Act
The end of the school year signals an important annual requirement for Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) child annuitants between the ages of 18 and 22. To remain eligible and continue receiving your annuity payments without interruption, you must certify your full-time school attendance with the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS).
Survivor SBP Newsletter - Fall 2025
Click here to download a PDF of the Fall 2025 newsletter
Director’s Message
Welcome to the 2025 Fall SBP Survivor Newsletter
Active Duty/ LOD Survivor Spotlight: Who Should SBP Annuitants Contact to Keep Their Accounts Up To Date?
It is very important for SBP Annuitants to update contact information with the Defense Finance and Accounting Services (DFAS), Defense Enrollment and Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS), and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
Explore Our Redesigned Forms Library Webpage
We’re excited to announce another improvement to our website – a fully redesigned Forms Library is now available!
How Remarriage Before Age 55 Affects SBP Eligibility
Spouse and former spouse annuitants under the age of 55 are required to verify annually whether they are married or not.
Executive Order 14247 – Do You Receive Your Annuity By Mailed Paper Check?
On March 25, 2025, the President of the United States signed Executive Order 14247, Modernizing Payments To and From America’s Bank Account. This Executive Order focuses on transitioning all federal payments to electronic methods.
SBP Child Annuitants Turning Age 18
SBP child annuitants between 18 and 22 years old who do not have a documented incapacitation must regularly certify their status as an unmarried or full-time student to continue to receive annuity payments.
Tax Season Prep: Your DFAS Guide
Tax season is just around the corner, and we want to make sure you are prepared. Now is a good time to verify your personal information and documentation is correct.
Page Updated May 1, 2026