⇉

Free DD 2656 PDF Template

The DD 2656 form, known as the Data for Payment of Retired Personnel, serves a crucial role in the transition from active duty to retirement for military personnel. It is the key document used to set up retirement pay, ensuring that retirees receive the benefits earned through their service. Completing this form accurately is essential for a seamless transition into retirement.

Edit DD 2656 Now

Outline

For many members of the military, transitioning to retirement can be as momentous as it is complex. Central to navigating this transition effectively is understanding and completing the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) form, known colloquially as the DD 2656. This essential document plays a pivotal role in ensuring retirees receive their well-deserved benefits. It is the linchpin that connects retired military personnel with their retirement pay. Through the DD 2656, retirees inform the DFAS of their preference for payment and tax withholding options, affirm their eligibility for retired pay, and specify the details of their chosen beneficiaries. The completion of this form, while mandatory, is also a critical final step in culminating a career of service, requiring attention to detail and an understanding of the implications of each decision made. Ensuring accuracy on this form is indispensable, as it impacts not only the timing of benefits commencement but also the financial well-being of both the retiree and their dependents. With its comprehensive scope, the DD 2656 encapsulates the critical administrative aspects of military retirement, encompassing everything from Survivor Benefit Plan elections to federal and state tax withholdings, thereby becoming a cornerstone document in the transition from active service to retirement.

Document Preview

DATA FOR PAYMENT OF RETIRED PERSONNEL

OMB No. 0704-0569 OMB approval expires: 20230731

The public reporting burden for this collection of information, 0704-0569, is estimated to average 15 minutes per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. Send comments regarding the burden estimate or burden reduction suggestions to the Department of Defense, Washington Headquarters Services, at whs.mc-alex.esd.mbx.dd-dod-information-collections@mail.mil. Respondents should be aware that notwithstanding any other provision of law, no person shall be subject to any penalty for failing to comply with a collection of information if it does not display a currently valid OMB control number.

AUTHORITY: 10 U.S.C. 71, Computation of Retired Pay; 10 U.S.C. 73, Annuities Based On Retired Or Retainer Pay; DoD Instruction 1332.42, Survivor Annuity Program Administration; and DoD Financial Management Regulation, 7000.14-R, Volume 7B, Chapter 42.

PRINCIPAL PURPOSE(S): To collect information needed to establish a retired/retainer pay account, including designation of beneficiaries for unpaid retired pay, state tax withholding election, information on dependents, and to establish a Survivor Benefit Plan election.

ROUTINE USE(S): To the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) regarding establishments, changes and discontinuing of DVA compensation to retirees and annuitants. To former spouses for purposes of providing information, consistent with the requirements of 10 U.S.C. 1450(f)(3), regarding Survivor Benefit Plan coverage. To spouses for purposes of providing information, consistent with the requirements of 10 U.S.C. 1448(a), regarding Survivor Benefit Plan coverage. Additional routine uses are available in the applicable system of records notice T7347b, Defense Military Retiree and Annuity Pay System Records, available at: http://dpcld.defense.gov/Privacy/SORNsIndex/DOD-wide-SORN-Article-View/Article/570196/t7347b/

DISCLOSURE: Voluntary; however, failure to provide requested information will result in delays in initiating retired/retainer pay.

WARNING

Read the instructions at the end of this form in their entirety prior to completing.

PART I - RETIRED PAY INFORMATION

SECTION I - PAY IDENTIFICATION

1. NAME (Last, First, Middle Initial)		2. SSN		3. DATE OF BIRTH	4. RETIREMENT / TRANSFER
				(YYYYMMDD)	DATE (YYYYMMDD)

5. RANK / PAYGRADE	6. BRANCH OF SERVICE
	a. AIR FORCE	b. ARMY	c. NAVY	d. MARINE CORPS		e. COAST GUARD

7. MEMBER OR FORMER MEMBER OF THE	8. PARTICIPANT IN THE FOLLOWING RETIREMENT PLAN (See instructions, check only one)
a. ACTIVE COMPONENT	a. FINAL PAY (only those members who first joined the service prior to September 8, 1980)
b. RESERVE COMPONENT	b. HIGH-3 (also known as the "High 36")
b. RESERVE COMPONENT	c. CSB/REDUX (only members who elected the Career Status Bonus upon completion of 15 years of service)
(all members of the Reserves and
National Guard including Active Guard/	d. BLENDED RETIREMENT SYSTEM (BRS)
Reserve and Full-Time Support)	d. BLENDED RETIREMENT SYSTEM (BRS)
	e. DISABILITY

9.CORRESPONDENCE ADDRESS (Ensure DFAS - Cleveland Center is advised whenever your correspondence address changes.)

a. STREET (Include apartment number)	b. CITY	c. STATE	d. ZIP CODE

e. TELEPHONE (Incl. area code)

f. EMAIL ADDRESS

g. PREFERRED CONTACT METHOD (check one)

TELEPHONE EMAIL

SECTION II - DIRECT DEPOSIT / ELECTRONIC FUND TRANSFER (DD/EFT) INFORMATION (See Instructions)

ACTIVE DUTY ONLY: Check here if you want to continue using financial information currently on file, otherwise fill out Items 10 through 13)

10. ACCOUNT TYPE (Check one)			11. ROUTING NUMBER (See Instructions)			12. ACCOUNT NUMBER (See Instructions)
CHECKING	SAVINGS

13. FINANCIAL INSTITUTION
a. NAME		b. STREET (Include apartment number)			c. CITY			d. STATE	e. ZIP CODE

SECTION III - SEPARATION PAYMENT INFORMATION
14. a. PAYMENT TYPE RECEIVED (Check one)							b. GROSS AMOUNT
NONE	SEVERANCE PAY (SE)		READJUSTMENT PAY (RP)	SEPARATION PAY (SP)
VOLUNTARY SEPARATION INCENTIVE (VSI)			SPECIAL SEPARATION BONUS (SSB)			OTHER

NOTE: If any payment type was selected, attach a COPY OF THE ORDERS which authorized the payment and a COPY OF THE DD FORM 214.

List Of Attachments

If Yes, Attach Page

DD FORM 2656, OCT 2018

PREVIOUS EDITION IS OBSOLETE.	Page 1 of 5
	AEM LiveCycle Designer

MEMBER NAME (Last, First, Middle Initial)

SSN

SECTION IV - VETERANS AFFAIRS (VA) DISABILITY COMPENSATION INFORMATION

15. VA DISABILITY COMPENSATION

a. IN THE EVENT I AM AWARDED DISABILITY	b. HAVE YOU APPLIED FOR OR ARE		c. EFFECTIVE DATE OF	d. MONTHLY AMOUNT
COMPENSATION BY THE VA, I WILL NOTIFY	YOU RECEIVING VA COMPENSATION		PAYMENT (YYYYMMDD)	OF PAYMENT
DFAS OF THE AMOUNT OF ANY AWARD, AS IT	FOR A DISABILITY?
MAY IMPACT MY RETIRED PAY BENEFIT.
Agree	Yes	No

SECTION V - DESIGNATION OF BENEFICIARIES FOR UNPAID RETIRED PAY (See Instructions)

Check this box if you want to designate your spouse as 100% beneficiary of any unpaid retired pay upon death OR complete Item 16

16. BENEFICIARY OR BENEFICIARIES INFORMATION

Complete this section if you want to designate a beneficiary or beneficiaries to receive any unpaid retired pay you are due at death.

If you do not complete this section OR check the block above, it will cause significant delay in disbursement of remaining pay upon your death.

a. NAME (Last, First, Middle Initial)	b. SSN	c. ADDRESS (Street, City, State, ZIP Code)	d. RELATIONSHIP e. SHARE
(1)			%

(2)

(3)

SECTION VI - FEDERAL INCOME TAX WITHHOLDING INFORMATION (Submit information in Items 17 – 21 in lieu of IRS Form W-4 for tax purposes.)

17. MARITAL STATUS (Check one)

SINGLE MARRIED

MARRIED BUT WITHHOLD AT HIGHER SINGLE RATE

18.TOTAL NUMBER OF EXEMPTIONS CLAIMED

19.ADDITIONAL WITHHOLDING (Optional)

20.I CLAIM EXEMPTION FROM WITHHOLDING (Enter "EXEMPT")

21.ARE YOU A UNITED STATES CITIZEN?

Yes

No (See Instructions)

SECTION VII - VOLUNTARY STATE TAX WITHHOLDING INFORMATION (Complete only if monthly withholding is desired.)

22.STATE DESIGNATED TO RECEIVE TAX

23.MONTHLY AMOUNT

(Whole dollar amount not less than $10.00)

24.RESIDENCE ADDRESS (If different from address listed in Block 9)

a. STREET (Include apartment number)	b. CITY	c. STATE	d. ZIP CODE

DD FORM 2656, OCT 2018

PREVIOUS EDITION IS OBSOLETE.	Page 2 of 5
	AEM LiveCycle Designer

MEMBER NAME (Last, First, Middle Initial)

SSN

DO NOT COMPLETE PART II,

If you are not covered by the BLENDED RETIREMENT SYSTEM or do not want to elect a lump sum of retired pay

PART II - LUMP SUM ELECTION

This election must be made NO LATER THAN 90 days prior to the date in Part I, Section I, Item 4, in accordance with 10 U.S.C. §1415

For example, if the date in Block 4 is June 1, 2018, the date in Block 28b must be on or before March 3, 2018

SECTION VIII - BLENDED RETIREMENT SYSTEM LUMP SUM ELECTION

Members covered by the Blended Retirement System may, upon retirement (regular retirement), or upon reaching the age of eligibility to receive retired pay (non-regular retirement) elect to receive a portion of his or her retired pay as a lump sum. The lump sum is a discounted present value of a portion of that member’s retired pay; not the same amount that would be received otherwise. It is highly recommended that you consult with a financial counselor before electing a lump sum of retired pay.

25. LUMP SUM PERCENTAGE

(Check one only, if electing to receive a LUMP SUM; if no choice is indicated you will default to receiving your full retired pay on a monthly basis)

a. I elect to receive a 25 PERCENT lump sum that is a discounted

portion of my retired pay for the period from when I am eligible to begin receiving retired pay until I reach full social security retirement age.

b. I elect to receive a 50 PERCENT lump sum that is a discounted portion of my retired pay for the period from when I am eligible to begin receiving retired pay until I reach full social security retirement age.

26. LUMP SUM PAYMENTS

(Check one only. Complete Block 26 only, if electing a LUMP SUM in Block 25)

I ELECT TO RECEIVE THE LUMP SUM IN

a. ONE INSTALLMENT

b. TWO EQUAL ANNUAL INSTALLMENTS

c. THREE EQUAL ANNUAL INSTALLMENTS

d. FOUR EQUAL ANNUAL INSTALLMENTS

27.LUMP SUM CONSIDERATIONS (Read the following carefully before signing in Block 28.)

•You are only eligible to elect a lump sum if you are qualified for a Regular or Non-Regular retirement under the Blended Retirement System. If you are retiring with a disability retirement under 10 U.S.C., Chapter 61, you are not eligible to elect a lump sum.

•A lump sum election must be made NO LATER THAN 90 days prior to the date of your retirement (for Regular Retirement) or 90 days prior to the date you are eligible to begin receiving retired pay (for Non-Regular Retirement), as indicated in Part I, Section I, Block 4.

•You may elect to receive either a 25 percent or 50 percent discounted portion of your future estimated retired pay as a discounted lump sum in exchange for reduced monthly retired pay until you reach your full Social Security Retirement Age.

•As a result of electing a lump sum, your monthly retired pay will be reduced to either 75 or 50 percent of its normal amount depending on whether you elect to receive 25 or 50 percent. At Full Social Security Retirement Age, your monthly retired pay will be restored to its full amount.

•The discount rate used to calculate your lump sum is the rate published by the Department of Defense in June of the year prior to the year of your retirement or year you first become eligible for retired pay, based on the date in Part I, Section I, Block 4.

•A lump sum payment is earned income for purposes of Federal Income Tax – receipt of it may have significant tax implications.

•The amount of the lump sum is based on your calculated military retired pay, the discount rate in effect for the year in which you retire or become eligible to begin receiving retired pay, and the remaining amount of time until you reach full Social Security Retirement Age. Once distributed, you do not have the ability to seek review of or challenge the amount of the lump sum with regard to any assumptions or factors used to compute the amount of the lump sum.

•Survivor Benefit Plan premiums (Part III) will still be deducted from your remaining monthly retired pay should you elect the lump sum. The premiums and your beneficiary’s coverage will be based on the unreduced amount of your monthly retired pay, as if you had not elected a lump sum, unless you indicate otherwise in Block 35 of Part III.

•If you expect to receive a disability rating from the Department of Veterans Affairs, dependent upon your rating, your ability to receive disability compensation could be affected by the lump sum.

•It is important to understand that a lifetime of full monthly payments will most likely be worth more than the lump sum with reduced monthly retired pay. It is highly recommended that you consult with a financial counselor before electing a lump sum of retired pay.

COMPARE YOUR ESTIMATED RETIREMENT BENEFITS WITH OR WITHOUT THE LUMP SUM:

http://militarypay.defense.gov/Calculators/

28. LUMP SUM ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

By signing below, I am indicating that I am aware that I am electing to receive a discounted portion of my retired pay as a lump sum, and that this lump sum will likely be less than I would have received if I had not elected to receive it. I am aware that there are resources available to assist me in making this decision, and that I have reviewed a comparison of my retirement benefits with and without a lump sum. I am also aware that once accepted, I may not seek review of, or otherwise challenge the amount of the lump sum, particularly in regard to deviations from future cost of living adjustments, actuarial assumptions, or other factors used in computing this amount.

a. MEMBER SIGNATURE (Sign only if electing a lump sum in Block 25)

b. DATE SIGNED (YYYYMMDD)

DD FORM 2656, OCT 2018

PREVIOUS EDITION IS OBSOLETE.	Page 3 of 5
	AEM LiveCycle Designer

MEMBER NAME (Last, First, Middle Initial)

SSN

PART III - SURVIVOR BENEFIT PLAN

SECTION IX - DEPENDENCY INFORMATION (This section must be completed regardless of SBP Election.)

29. SPOUSE

a. NAME (Last, First, Middle Initial)					b. SSN	c. DATE OF BIRTH
						(YYYYMMDD)

30. DATE OF MARRIAGE (YYYYMMDD)			31. PLACE OF MARRIAGE (See Instructions)

32. DEPENDENT CHILDREN
Indicate which child or children resulted from marriage to a former spouse by entering (FS) after relationship in column d.

Add rows or continue on separate paper if necessary.
a. NAME (Last, First, Middle Initial)	b. SSN	c. DATE OF BIRTH		d. RELATIONSHIP			e. DISABLED?
a. NAME (Last, First, Middle Initial)	b. SSN		(YYYYMMDD)	(Son, daughter, stepson, etc.)			e. DISABLED?
			(YYYYMMDD)	(Son, daughter, stepson, etc.)
(1)							Yes	No

(2)							Yes	No

(3)							Yes	No

SECTION X - SURVIVOR BENEFIT PLAN (SBP) ELECTION (You should consult a Survivor Benefit Plan counselor before making an election.)

If you make no election, maximum coverage will be established for your spouse and/or eligible dependent children

33.RESERVE COMPONENT ONLY (This section refers to the decision you previously made on the DD Form 2656-5 when you were notified of eligibility to retire, in most cases you do not have the right to make a new election on this form)

Reserve/National Guard members who achieve 20 qualifying years of service make the election to participate in the Reserve Component (RC) SBP on DD Form 2656-5 within 90 days of being notified of eligibility for a non-regular retirement not when applying for retired pay, unless that member previously elected to defer coverage. You must indicate your previous election in Block 33a through 33c before proceeding to Block 34. If you previously elected Option B or Option C, DO NOT enter an election in Block 34. (Check only one in Block 33a. through 33c.)

OPTION A - Previously declined to make an election until eligible to receive retired pay (Proceed to Block 34 to make election)

OPTION B - Previously elected coverage to begin at age 60 (Do not make an election in Block 34, you have already elected coverage.)

OPTION C - Previously elected or defaulted to immediate RC-SBP Coverage (Do not make an election in Block 34, you have already elected coverage.) NOTE: If you were married at the time you were notified of eligibility for non-regular retirement and did not complete DD Form 2656-5,

you defaulted to full coverage under OPTION C – do not make an election in Block 34

Marital status has changed since your initial election to participate in RC-SBP.

Yes	No If Yes, Attach Page with Explanation

34.SBP BENEFICIARY CATEGORIES (Check one only. See Instructions and Section X.)

a. I ELECT COVERAGE FOR SPOUSE ONLY I have Dependent Child(ren)		Yes	No
b. I ELECT COVERAGE FOR SPOUSE AND CHILD(REN)
c. I ELECT COVERAGE FOR CHILD(REN) ONLY I have a Spouse	Yes	No

d. I ELECT COVERAGE FOR THE PERSON NAMED IN BLOCK 37 WHO HAS AN INSURABLE INTEREST IN ME (See Instructions)

e.I ELECT COVERAGE FOR MY FORMER SPOUSE INDICATED IN BLOCK 38 (See Instructions) Complete DD 2656-1, "Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) Election Statement for Former Spouse Coverage"

f. I ELECT COVERAGE FOR MY FORMER SPOUSE AND DEPENDENT CHILD(REN) OF THAT MARRIAGE

g. I ELECT NOT TO PARTICIPATE IN SBP	I have eligible dependents under the plan.	Yes	No
	If ‘Yes’, spouse concurrence is required in Part V.

35.SBP LEVEL OF COVERAGE (Check one only. Complete UNLESS Option B or Option C was selected in 33 OR Check Box 34 d or 34 g was selected. See Instructions.)

a. I ELECT COVERAGE BASED ON FULL GROSS PAY

(If I elected the Career Status Bonus under REDUX or a lump sum of retired pay under the Blended Retirement System (Part II), full gross pay is the amount of retired pay I would have received had I NOT elected the Career Status Bonus or Lump Sum.)

b. I ELECT COVERAGE WITH A REDUCED BASE AMOUNT OF $ (Spouse concurrence is required in Part V)

c. CSB /REDUX MEMBERS ONLY

I elect coverage based on my actual Reduced Retired Pay Under REDUX.

I understand that this represents a Reduced Base Amount and requires Spouse Concurrence. (See Instructions)

d. I ELECT COVERAGE BASED ON THE THRESHOLD AMOUNT IN EFFECT ON THE DATE OF RETIREMENT.

(Spouse concurrence is required in Part V)

DD FORM 2656, OCT 2018

PREVIOUS EDITION IS OBSOLETE.	Page 4 of 5
	AEM LiveCycle Designer

MEMBER NAME (Last, First, Middle Initial)

SSN

36.SPECIAL NEEDS TRUST (Check only if you intend to designate a special needs trust (SNT) as beneficiary for a child/children designated in Item 32e. as disabled. You must elect either 34b., 34c., or 34f. to be eligible to designate an SNT. See DoDI 1332.42 for procedures for designating an SNT.)

I INTEND TO DESIGNATE AN SNT AS BENEFICIARY FOR THE CHILD OR CHILDREN DESIGNATED AS DISABLED IN BLOCK 32.

(It is your responsibility to separately submit a written statement of the decision to have the annuity paid to the SNT, an attorney’s certification of that SNT, and the name and tax identification number for the SNT)

37.INSURABLE INTEREST BENEFICIARY (See instructions prior to completing this section - DO NOT complete if you have an ELIGIBLE SPOUSE or FORMER SPOUSE)

a. NAME (Last, First, Middle Initial)

b. SSN

	c. DATE OF BIRTH	d. RELATIONSHIP
	(YYYYMMDD)	d. RELATIONSHIP
	(YYYYMMDD)

e. STREET (Include apartment number)

f. CITY

g. STATE h. ZIP CODE

i. TELEPHONE (Incl. area code)

j. EMAIL ADDRESS

38.FORMER SPOUSE INFORMATION (Complete only if you have a former spouse)

a. NAME (Last, First, Middle Initial)	b. SSN	c. DATE OF BIRTH	d. DATE OF DIVORCE
a. NAME (Last, First, Middle Initial)	b. SSN	(YYYYMMDD)	(YYYYMMDD)
		(YYYYMMDD)	(YYYYMMDD)

e. TELEPHONE (Incl. area code)

f. EMAIL ADDRESS

PART IV – CERTIFICATION

SECTION XI - CERTIFICATION

39. MEMBER

Under penalties of perjury, I certify that the number of withholding exemptions claimed does not exceed the number to which I am entitled, and that all statements on this form are made with full knowledge of the penalties for making false statements (18 U.S.C. §287 and §1001) provide for a penalty of not more than $10,000 fine, or 5 years in prison, or both). Also, I understand that if I elected less than full SBP coverage for my spouse, I will need my spouse’s notarized concurrence signed no earlier than the date of my signature and prior to the date of my retirement; otherwise, by law, I will automatically be covered at the maximum spouse coverage.

a. NAME (Last, First, Middle Initial)

b. SIGNATURE

c. DATE SIGNED(YYYYMMDD)

40. WITNESS

a. NAME (Last, First, Middle Initial)

b. SIGNATURE

c. DATE SIGNED(YYYYMMDD)

d. UNIT OR ORGANIZATION ADDRESS (Include room number)

e. CITY/BASE OR POST

f. STATE g. ZIP CODE

PART V – SPOUSE SBP CONCURRENCE

Required ONLY when the member is married and elects either: (a) child only SBP coverage, (b) does not elect full spouse SBP coverage; or (c) declines SBP coverage. The date of the spouse's signature in Block 41c MUST NOT be before the date of the member's signature in Block 39c, or on or after the date of retirement listed in Part I, Section I, Block 4. The spouse's signature MUST be notarized.

SECTION XII - SBP SPOUSE CONCURRENCE

41. SPOUSE

I hereby concur with the Survivor Benefit Plan election made by my spouse. I have received information that explains the options available and the effects of those options. I know that retired pay stops on the day the retiree dies. I have signed this statement of my free will.

a. NAME (Last, First, Middle Initial)				b. SIGNATURE	c. DATE SIGNED(YYYYMMDD)

42. NOTARY WITNESS

On this	day of	, 20	, before me, the undersigned notary public, personally

appeared (Name of Spouse in Block 41a.)

provided to me through satisfactory evidence of identification, which were

to be the person whose name is signed in block 41.a. of this document in my presence.

Signature of Notary

My Commission Expires

NOTARY SEAL

DD FORM 2656, OCT 2018

PREVIOUS EDITION IS OBSOLETE.	Page 5 of 5
	AEM LiveCycle Designer

INSTRUCTIONS

GENERAL

1.Read these instructions and Privacy Act Statement carefully before completing the data form.

2.The Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS)-Cleveland will establish your retired/retainer pay account based on the data provided on this form and your retirement/transfer orders. Your personnel office, disbursing/finance office, and SBP Counselor will assist you in the proper completion and submission of this form. You should maintain these instructions along with a copy of the form as a permanent record. Please complete the form electronically or by typing or printing in ink.

3.Ensure that you promptly advise DFAS-Cleveland of changes to your marital/family status and any changes to your correspondence address or direct deposit information. Gray Area retirees should contact their Reserve Component directly to report changes. Retired members of the Coast Guard should contact the Coast Guard Pay and Personnel Center.

4.If completed electronically, this form automatically disables certain fields based on information you entered. If one of the items listed below does not appear on the form, it is due to information you previously entered that indicates this item is not applicable to you.

PART I - RETIRED PAY INFORMATION

SECTION I - PAY IDENTIFICATION.

ITEMS 1 through 3. Self-explanatory.

ITEM 4. If you are retiring from active duty, enter the date you will transfer to the Fleet Reserve or date of retirement. If you are a Reserve/National Guard member qualified to retire under 10 U.S. Code, Chapter 1223, enter either the date of your 60th birthday or, a later date on which you desire to begin receiving retired pay. If you are eligible for reduced age retirement earlier than your 60th birthday, you will need to enter that date.

ITEMS 5 and 6. Self-explanatory.

ITEM 7. Indicate whether you are (or were) a member of the Active Component (Regular Component) or a member of the Reserve Component. The Reserve Component includes all reserve and National Guard members, including full-time reservists on active duty, such as Active Guard/Reserves (AGR) and Full-Time Support (FTS).

ITEM 8. Indicate which retirement plan covers you:

If your Date of Initial Entry into Military Service (DIEMS) is prior to September 8, 1980, you should enter “Final Pay” UNLESS you elected to opt into the Blended Retirement System.

If your DIEMS is on or after September 8, 1980, but before January 1, 2018, you should enter “High-3” UNLESS you elected to participate in the CSB/ REDUX retirement plan or the Blended Retirement System (BRS).

If your DIEMS is on or after August 1, 1986, AND you elected to receive the Career Status Bonus (CSB) upon completion of 15 years of service, you should enter “CSB/REDUX.”

If you elected to opt into the Blended Retirement System, OR your DIEMS is on or after January 1, 2018, you should enter “Blended Retirement System.”

If you are retiring with a disability retirement, regardless of your DIEMS enter “Disability.”

ITEM 9. Self-explanatory.

SECTION II - DIRECT DEPOSIT/ELECTRONIC FUND TRANSFER INFORMATION.

ITEMS 10 through 13. Enter the routing and account information for your bank or financial institution. Indicate whether your account is (S) for Savings or

(C)for Checking account in Item 10. Also, provide the nine digit Routing Transit Number (RTN) of your financial institution in Item 11, your account number in Item 12, and your financial institution name and address in Item 13. This section must be completed. Your net retired/retainer pay must be sent to your financial institution by direct deposit/electronic fund transfer (DD/EFT).

ACTIVE COMPONENT RETIREES ONLY: If you are directing your retired pay to the same account number and financial institution to which you directed your active duty pay, check the box immediately below “Section II”. If you have a copy of the Direct Deposit Authorization form used to establish your DD/EFT for your active duty pay, attach a copy to this form.

SECTION III - SEPARATION PAYMENT INFORMATION.

ITEM 14. Indicate in 14.a if you previously received separation or severance pay. If you mark one of the boxes in 14.a, complete 14.b by entering the gross amount for Severance, Separation and Special Separation Bonus payments and the annual installment gross amount for Voluntary Separation Incentive payments. Attach a copy of the orders that authorized the payment and a copy of previous DD Form 214.

SECTION IV - VA DISABILITY COMPENSATION.

ITEM 15. All retirees must read and acknowledge Item 15.a. Note that if you later apply for and are awarded VA disability compensation, you must notify DFAS of the amount of the award. Indicate in Item 15.b if you are currently, or have previously, received VA disability compensation. If you mark YES in 15.b, complete 15.c, and 15.d.

SECTION V - DESIGNATION OF BENEFICIARIES FOR UNPAID RETIRED PAY.

ITEM 16. Upon your death, 10 U.S.C. §2771 provides that any pay due and unpaid will be paid to the surviving person highest on the following list: (1) beneficiary(ies) designated in writing; (2) your spouse; (3) your children and their descendants, by representation; (4) your parents in equal parts, or if either is dead, the survivor; (5) the legal representative of your estate, and (6) person(s) entitled under the law of your domicile. You may choose to designate your spouse as the primary beneficiary for 100% of your unpaid retired pay by checking the box directly below “Section V” and leaving blocks 16.a through 16.e blank. If you choose to designate a different beneficiary or beneficiaries, you must complete Items 16.a through 16.e. If you designate multiple beneficiaries, you can either provide a SHARE percentage to be paid to each person or leave the SHARE percentage blank. If you leave the SHARE percentage blank, any retired pay you are owed when you die will be divided equally among your designated beneficiaries. If you list more than one person with a 100% SHARE, the beneficiaries will be paid in the order as you list them on the form. If, for example, you designate two beneficiaries, then the SHARE percentage must either be 100% for each beneficiary, or the SHARE percentages when added together must equal 100%. If you designate more than one person, and the total percentage designated is greater than 100%, the person listed first is considered the primary beneficiary. If you check the box designating your spouse as 100% beneficiary, that election will take precedence over any designation made in Item 16a through 16e.

If you do not designate a beneficiary or beneficiaries in Item 16, or all designated beneficiaries have died before the date of your death, any unpaid retired pay will be paid to the living person or persons in the highest category of beneficiary listed above, as required by law.

SECTION VI - FEDERAL INCOME TAX WITHHOLDING INFORMATION. Complete this section after determining your allowed exemptions with the aid of your disbursing/finance office, or from the instructions available on IRS Form W-4, or other available IRS publications. Leave Items 17 through 19 blank if completing Item 20.

ITEM 17. Mark the status you desire to claim.

DD FORM 2656 INSTRUCTIONS, OCT 2018

Page 1 of 3

PREVIOUS EDITION IS OBSOLETE.

AEM LiveCycle Designer

ITEM 18. Enter the number of exemptions claimed.			PART III - SURVIVOR BENEFIT PLAN.
ITEM 19. Enter the dollar amount of additional Federal income tax you desire			It is very important that you are counseled and are fully aware of your options
			under the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP). SBP pays your eligible beneficiary or
withheld from each month's pay. Leave blank if you do not desire additional			beneficiaries an inflation-protected annuity, based on your retired pay, in the
withholding.
			event of your death. The cost of SBP is subsidized by the government, but you
ITEM 20. Enter the word "EXEMPT" in this item only if you meet all the			will be required to pay a portion of the cost of SBP through deductions from
			your retired pay. All retiring active duty members and all members of the
following criteria: (1) you had no Federal income tax liability in the prior year;			Reserves / National Guard who complete 20 qualifying years of service are
(2) you anticipate no Federal income tax liability this year; and (3) you therefore
			automatically fully covered under the SBP or the Reserve Component SBP
desire no Federal income tax to be withheld from your retired/retainer pay.			(RC-SBP) unless electing to reduce or decline this coverage. There are
NOTE: You must file a new exemption claim form with DFAS - Cleveland by
			special requirements for reducing or declining coverage that are covered in
February 15th of each year for which you claim exemption from withholding.
			Part III.

ITEM 21. If you are not a U.S. citizen, provide, on an additional sheet, a list of			SECTION IX - DEPENDENCY INFORMATION.
all periods of ACTIVE DUTY served in the continental U.S., Alaska, and

Hawaii. Indicate periods of service by year and month only. List only service at			ITEM 29. Provide your spouse's name, SSN, and date of birth. If no current
shore activities; do not report service aboard a ship.
			spouse, enter "N/A" and proceed to Item 32.

For example:	DUTY STATION	TO (Year/Month)	ITEMS 30 and 31. Enter the date and location of your marriage to your current
FROM (Year/Month)			spouse. In Item 30, if marriage occurred outside the United States, include city,
1994/02	NAVSTA, Norfolk, VA	1995/01
			province, and name of country.

NOTE: This information may affect the portion of retired/retainer pay which is			ITEM 32. If you do not have dependent children, enter "N/A" in this item. If you
taxable in accordance with the Internal Revenue Code if you maintain a
			do have dependent children, provide the requested information. Designate
permanent residence outside the U.S., Alaska, or Hawaii.
			which children resulted from marriage to a former spouse, if any, by indicating
SECTION VII - VOLUNTARY STATE TAX WITHHOLDING.			(FS) after the relationship in Item 32.d.

Complete this section only if you want monthly state tax withholding. If you			ITEM 32.e. Enter YES or NO as appropriate. A disabled child is an unmarried
choose not to have a monthly deduction, you remain liable for state taxes, if
			child who meets one of the following conditions: a child who has become
applicable.
			incapable of self-support before the age of 18, or, a child who has become
ITEM 22. Enter the name of the state for which you desire state tax withheld.			incapable of self-support after the age of 18 but before age 22 while a full-time
			student. If answering yes, attach documentation.
ITEM 23. Enter the dollar amount you want deducted from your monthly retired/			SECTION X - SURVIVOR BENEFIT PLAN (SBP) ELECTION.
retainer pay. This amount must not be less than $10.00 and in whole dollars			In this section, you will be able to indicate your desired SBP election and
(Example: $50.00, not $50.25).
			designate the beneficiary for SBP in the event of your death. If you make no
ITEM 24. Enter only if different from the address in Item 9.			election, you will automatically receive maximum coverage for all eligible family
			members (spouse and/or children). If you elect to reduce or decline your
PART II - LUMP SUM ELECTION.			coverage, your spouse will have to concur with that decision. You may
			discontinue your SBP participation within one year after the second
OPTIONAL. Only complete Part II if you are:			anniversary of the commencement of retired/retainer pay. Termination of SBP
			is effective the first of the month after DFAS-Cleveland receives the SBP
Covered under the Blended Retirement System; AND,			disenrollment request. There will be no refund of SBP costs paid for the period
Want to elect a partial lump sum of retired pay
			before the SBP disenrollment. You are advised to consult with a SBP
If you are not covered under the Blended Retirement System or do NOT want			Counselor or Retirement Services Officer prior to completing this section.

to elect a partial lump sum, proceed to PART III of the form.			ITEM 33. RESERVE COMPONENT ONLY. Information to complete this
SECTION VIII - BLENDED RETIREMENT SYSTEM LUMP SUM ELECTION.			section can be found on the DD Form 2656-5 you submitted when you were
			first notified that you had completed 20 years of creditable service, known as
ITEM 25. Indicate in Item 25.a OR 25.b whether you intend to receive a 25			your “Notification of Eligibility.” Reserve or National Guard members who
			previously completed 20 qualifying years of service are automatically covered
percent or 50 percent lump sum of retired pay.			under the RC-SBP unless electing, within 90 days of receiving their Notification
ITEM 26. If indicating in Item 25.a or 25.b that you desire to receive a lump			of Eligibility, to decline this coverage. Indicate in Item 33.a., 33.b., or 33.c. your
			previous election. If you elected immediate coverage (Item 33.c, or “Option
sum of retired pay, indicate in 26.a through 26.d whether you would like that in			C”), elected coverage to begin at age 60 (Item 33.b, or “Option B”) or made no
one payment or a series of equal, annual installments over 2, 3, or 4 years.			election previously, this remains your coverage and cannot be changed.
ITEM 27. Before signing in Item 28, you must read the considerations listed in			However, Reserve/National Guard members who declined to make an election
			until reaching the age of eligibility to receive retired pay (Item 33.a, or “Option
Item 27. You are highly encouraged to review your options with a financial			A”), or who were unmarried and had no eligible children at initial RC-SBP
professional and compare your estimated retirement benefits with or without a
			election and made no subsequent RC-SBP election must complete Items 34
lump sum using the online calculator located at			and 35 (and Items 36 through 38 if applicable). If you elected either Immediate
http://militarypay.defense.gov/calculators/BRS.
			(Option C) or Deferred (Option B) RC-SBP coverage and the elected
ITEM 28. If you mark Items 25 and Items 26, you must sign in the block at			beneficiary is no longer eligible, provide supporting documentation with this
			form.
28.a, and indicate the date you are signing in 28.b. The date in 28.b must be
at least 90 days prior to the date of your retirement or the date you transfer to			ITEM 34. Enter your desired coverage in Items 34.a through 34.g. You may
the Fleet Reserve (shown in Item 4, this is also the same date indicated on			only select one item. If you elect 34.a, 34.c, or 34.g, you MUST also indicate
your DD 108 request for retirement). If you are a Reserve/National Guard
			whether you are declining coverage for other eligible dependents.
member qualified to receive retired pay with a non-regular retirement, the date

in 28.b must be 90 days prior to the date upon which you will be eligible to
begin receiving retired pay (shown in Item 4, this is also the same date
indicated on your DD 108 request for retirement).
If you are NOT electing a lump sum of retired pay, DO NOT SIGN Item 28.

DD FORM 2656 INSTRUCTIONS, OCT 2018		PREVIOUS EDITION IS OBSOLETE.		Page 2 of 3
				AEM LiveCycle Designer

ITEM 34.d. Mark if you are not married and desire coverage for a person with an insurable interest in you, and provide the requested information about that person in Item 37. An election of this type must be based on your full gross retired/retainer pay. If the person is a non-relative or as distantly related as a cousin, attach evidence that the person has a financial interest in the continuance of your life. Under provisions of Public Law 103-337, you are permitted to withdraw from insurable interest coverage at any time. Such a withdrawal will be effective on the first day of the month following the month the request is received by DFAS - Cleveland. Therefore, no refund of SBP costs collected before the effective date of withdrawal will be paid.

ITEMS 34.e and 34.f. Mark Item 34.e if you elect coverage for a former spouse. Mark Item 34.f if you desire coverage for a former spouse and dependent child(ren) of that marriage, and provide the requested information about these children in Item 32 as appropriate. Provide a certified photocopy of final decree that includes separation agreement or property settlement which discusses SBP for former spouse coverage. The DD Form 2656-1, "Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) Election Statement for Former Spouse Coverage," must also be completed and accompany the completed DD Form 2656 to DFAS - Cleveland.

ITEM 34.g. Mark if you decline coverage under SBP. If married and declining coverage, Items 41 and 42 of Part V, Section XI MUST be completed.

ITEM 35. This item allows you to designate the amount of your retired pay that will be the “base amount” for determining your SBP premiums and the resulting SBP annuity. If you make no entry, you will default to the full base amount.

ITEM 35.a. Mark if you desire the coverage to be based on your full gross retired/retainer pay. For members who previously elected the Career Status Bonus (CSB) or members covered by the Blended Retirement System who elect a lump sum of retired pay, the full gross retired/retainer pay is what your retired pay would have been had you not elected (CSB) or the lump sum.

ITEM 35.b. Mark if you desire the coverage to be based on a reduced portion of your retired/retainer pay. This reduced amount may not be less than $300.00. If your gross retired/retainer pay is less than $300.00, the full gross pay is automatically used as the base amount. Enter the desired amount in the space provided to the right of this item.

ITEM 35.c. Used by a REDUX member who wants coverage based on actual retired pay received under REDUX. If this option is selected, proceed to Section XII, if married.

ITEM 35.d. Mark if you desire the higher threshold amount in effect on the date of your retirement to be used as your base amount.

ITEM 36. You may elect payment of the SBP benefit, for beneficiary categories designated in Items 34.b, 34.c, or 34.f, to a special needs trust (SNT) who meets the criteria of a disabled child for SBP, and is indicated as such in Item 32.e of these instructions. You must provide to DFAS-Cleveland a copy of the SNT established for the child, documents to support the child is incapable of self-support, age when incapacitated, and if temporary or permanent, and separate statement from an actively licensed attorney certifying that the Trust is a SNT created for the benefit of the child and is in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws. Additional procedures for establishing an SNT as SBP beneficiary is in DoDI 1332.42.

ITEM 37. Enter the information for insurable interest beneficiary. See instruction for Item 34.e

ITEM 38. Enter the information for your former spouse, if applicable.

PART IV - CERTIFICATION.

SECTION XI - CERTIFICATION

ITEM 39. Read the statement carefully, then sign your name and indicate the date of signature. For your SBP election to be valid, you must sign and date the form prior to the effective date of your retirement/transfer, or the date you are eligible to begin receiving retired pay. (Note: if you elected a lump sum of retired pay in Part II, this form must be signed and dated no later than 90 days prior to your retirement/transfer date, or the date you are eligible to begin receiving retired pay).

ITEM 40. A witness to your signature must also sign and provide their information in Items 40.a through 40.g. A witness cannot be named as beneficiary in Sections V, IX or X.

PART V - SPOUSE SBP CONCURRENCE

SECTION XII - SBP SPOUSE CONCURRENCE.

Completion of this section is required only in certain circumstances if you declined to elect SBP coverage, elected less than the maximum coverage, or elected child-only coverage while having an eligible spouse. If you are completing this form electronically and this section does not appear, you do not have to obtain spousal concurrence.

ITEM 41. 10 U.S.C. §1448 requires that an otherwise eligible spouse concur if the member declines to elect SBP coverage, elects less than maximum coverage, or elects child-only coverage. Therefore, a member with an eligible spouse upon retirement, who elects any combination other than items 34.a or 34.b AND 35.a must obtain the spouse's concurrence in Section XI. By signing Item 41, you are concurring with the Survivor Benefit Plan election made by your spouse.

ITEM 42. A Notary Public must witness the signature of the spouse in Item 41. This witness cannot be a named beneficiary in Section V, IX, or X. The spouse's concurrence must be obtained and dated on or after the date of the member's election, but before the retirement / transfer date. If concurrence is not obtained when required, maximum coverage will be established for your spouse and child(ren) if appropriate.

DD FORM 2656 INSTRUCTIONS, OCT 2018	Page 3 of 3
PREVIOUS EDITION IS OBSOLETE.	AEM LiveCycle Designer

Get PDF Form

Document Attributes

Fact Name	Description
Form Title	DD 2656
Purpose	Data for Payment of Retired Personnel
Primary Users	Retiring or retiring reserve members of the United States Armed Forces
When to Submit	The form must be completed and submitted at the time of retirement or shortly thereafter to ensure prompt payment processing.
Key Components	Personal identification details, beneficiary information, payment preferences, and tax withholding data
Governing Law(s)	Federal law governs the DD 2656 form, as it pertains to military benefits which are under the jurisdiction of federal regulations.
Where to Find	The form can be obtained from the Department of Defense's official website or through one's military branch's human resources or retirement services department.

How to Fill Out DD 2656

Filling out the DD 2656 form is a crucial step for service members transitioning to retirement. This document secures the future by ensuring that retirement pay is properly processed and disbursed. Accuracy and attention to detail are paramount when completing this form to avoid any delays or issues with retirement benefits. Following a step-by-step guide can simplify the process, making it straightforward and less daunting.

Gather all necessary documentation, including your retirement orders, Social Security number, and banking information for direct deposit.
Start with Section I, providing your personal information. This includes your full legal name, Social Security Number (SSN), date of birth, and contact details. Ensure accuracy to prevent any processing delays.
In Section II, record your retirement or transfer to Fleet Reserve date as indicated in your retirement orders.
Section III requires your beneficiary information for the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP). Provide the name, relationship, SSN, and date of birth of your chosen beneficiary.
If you are electing SBP coverage, complete Section IV with the necessary details about your election, including coverage level and beneficiaries.
For those opting out of SBP coverage, Section V must be filled out, acknowledging the decision to decline this benefit. Note that this decision requires notarization.
In Section VI, detail your direct deposit information. Include the name of your bank, the routing number, and your account number to ensure your retirement pay is correctly deposited.
Section VII is for the Certification of Service Member. Sign and date this section in front of a notary, verifying that all information provided is accurate to the best of your knowledge.
The final step involves reviewing the entire form for accuracy and completeness. Double-check all entries, especially personal identifiers and financial information.
Submit the completed DD 2656 form to the appropriate office as directed in your retirement packet or by contacting your Personnel Support Detachment (PSD) or service equivalent.

Upon submission, the process of activating your retirement pay begins. This involves verification of your service and entitlements by the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) or your service's pay center. It's crucial to maintain contact information with these entities to resolve any issues quickly. Proper completion of the DD 2656 form is the first step toward a smooth transition to retirement, ensuring you receive the benefits you've earned through your service.

More About DD 2656

What is the DD 2656 form?

The DD 2656 form, also known as the Data for Payment of Retired Personnel form, serves a crucial function in the transition from active duty to retirement for military personnel. It is used to provide the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) with the necessary information to set up retirement pay for departing service members. Details such as bank account information for direct deposit, tax withholding preferences, and beneficiary details for the Survivor Benefit Plan are included within this form.
When should the DD 2656 form be submitted?

Timeliness is key when it comes to submitting the DD 2656. Ideally, service members should submit this form to the appropriate military finance office at least 60 days before their retirement date. This window ensures that the DFAS has sufficient time to process the information and initiate the retirement pay by the retirement date, thus avoiding any delays in receiving benefits.
What happens if I don't submit the DD 2656 form?

Failure to submit the DD 2656 form can lead to significant consequences. Without this crucial piece of documentation, retirement pay cannot be processed and distributed. This means that until the form is submitted and processed, the retiree would not receive their retirement pay, potentially resulting in financial hardship. It's critical to submit the DD 2656 as early as possible to ensure a smooth transition into retirement.
Can the information on the DD 2656 form be changed after submission?

Yes, changes can be made to the information provided on the DD 2656 form after it has been submitted. If a retiree needs to update their bank account details, change their tax withholding preferences, or amend their Survivor Benefit Plan beneficiary information, they should contact the DFAS directly. The process for making changes may require the submission of additional forms or documentation.
Where can I find the DD 2656 form?

The DD 2656 form can be obtained from multiple sources. It is available for download from the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) website. Additionally, retirement services officers (RSOs) at military installations can provide the form and offer guidance on how to complete it. It's imperative to ensure that the latest version of the form is used to avoid any processing delays.

Common mistakes

Filling out the DD 2656 form, the Data for Payment of Retired Personnel, is a critical step for military retirees to ensure they receive their retirement benefits without any hitches. However, due to its complexity, mistakes are common. Here are seven notable errors:

Not updating personal information: Retirees often forget to update their personal information like addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses. Keeping this information current is crucial for receiving timely and important updates regarding benefits.
Inaccurately designating beneficiaries: A common oversight is not properly designating beneficiaries or failing to update beneficiary information. This mistake can lead to significant difficulties for your loved ones in the future.
Omitting or incorrectly entering bank account information: Inputting incorrect banking information for Direct Deposit can delay the receipt of retirement pay. Ensuring that account numbers and routing numbers are accurate is essential.
Skipping the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) election: The SBP allows a retiree to ensure a continued source of income for their dependents, but failing to make a clear election can result in the default option, which may not align with the retiree's wishes.
Failing to sign and date the form: It might seem obvious, but without a signature and a date, the form is incomplete and will not be processed, leading to delays in benefit payments.
Not using the most current form version: The Department of Defense periodically updates the DD 2656 form. Using an outdated version can result in the rejection of the submission.
Overlooking the need for notarization: Certain sections of the form require notarization. Neglecting this step can invalidate the form, delaying the processing of benefits.

For military retirees, thoroughly and accurately completing the DD 2656 form is a vital step towards securing retirement benefits. Avoiding these common mistakes can help ensure that the process is smooth and that benefits are disbursed without unnecessary delay.

Documents used along the form

The DD 2656 form, known as the "Data for Payment of Retired Personnel," serves as a critical document for retiring military personnel, outlining the necessary information for the Department of Defense to process retirement pay. However, the preparation for retirement involves more than just completing the DD 2656 form. Several other forms and documents often accompany it, each playing a unique role in ensuring military retirees receive the benefits and compensation they are entitled to. Below is a list of seven key documents often used alongside the DD 2656 form.

DD 214: This document, also known as the "Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty," is perhaps the most well-known military form. It summarizes a service member's career, including their service time, rank, and the nature of their discharge, which is essential for verifying eligibility for various veterans' benefits.
DD 2656-1: The "Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) Election Statement for Former Spouse Coverage" is used alongside DD 2656 by retirees who need to provide SBP coverage for a former spouse.
SF 1199A: The "Direct Deposit Sign-Up Form" is used by military retirees to establish direct deposit for their retirement pay, ensuring quick and secure access to their funds.
IRS W-4V: The "Voluntary Withholding Request" form allows retirees to request federal income tax withholding from their retirement pay, helping manage their tax obligations.
DD 2656-6: The "Survivor Benefit Plan Election Change Certificate" is necessary for retirees who wish to change their initial SBP election. This form can adjust beneficiaries under specific circumstances allowed by law.
DD 2656-2: Titled "Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) Termination Request," this form is used by retirees who elect to terminate SBP coverage, subject to specific eligibility criteria and deadlines.
DD 2870: The "Authorization for Disclosure of Medical or Dental Information" form allows retirees to authorize the sharing of their medical records with designated parties, crucial for processing claims or receiving certain medical benefits.

Each of these documents plays a vital role in the transition from active duty to retirement, affecting a retiree's pay, benefits, and medical coverage. Understanding and properly completing these forms ensure that retirees can maximize the benefits they've earned through their service. Accompanying the DD 2656 with the correct documentation is a critical step in securing a smooth and well-deserved retirement.

Similar forms

The DD 2656 form, essential for military personnel transitioning into retirement, is a vital document for processing retirement pay. There are several other documents, each significant in various administrative and legal contexts, that share similarities with the DD 2656 in terms of their importance, required accuracy, and necessity for timely submission. Here's an overview:

IRS Form W-4: Similar to the DD 2656, the W-4 form is used by employees to determine the amount of federal income tax to withhold from their pay. Both forms require accurate personal information and financial details to ensure correct processing.
VA Form 21-526EZ: This form is used for applying for disability compensation and related benefits with the Veterans Affairs. Like the DD 2656, it involves detailed personal information and requires evidence to support claims, focusing on individuals' status and needs.
Standard Form 86 (SF-86): SF-86, required for security clearance processes, shares the necessity of providing comprehensive personal information, similar to DD 2656. Both forms are detailed and essential for career progression in their respective fields.
Form I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification: Like the DD 2656, the I-9 form is crucial for verifying an individual’s eligibility to work in the United States, requiring personal and identification details to be filled out accurately.
SSA-821-BK: This Social Security Work Activity Report is akin to the DD 2656, where individuals must accurately report information impacting benefits processing. Both forms are critical for ensuring correct benefits and compensation.
DS-11 Application for U.S. Passport: The DS-11 requires detailed personal information and documentation to prove U.S. citizenship, similar to how the DD 2656 requires comprehensive data for processing retirement benefits.
OSGLI Form SGLV 8286: This form, used for Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance Election and Certificate, resembles the DD 2656 in its importance for military personnel to manage and update their benefits preferences.
Federal Direct Consolidation Loan Application and Promissory Note: Like the DD 2656, this document is pivotal for individuals wishing to consolidate federal education loans, requiring thorough personal and financial information to process accurately.
Health Insurance Marketplace Application: Similar to the DD 2656, applying for health coverage through the Marketplace necessitates detailed personal, financial, and household information to determine eligibility and coverage options.

These documents, while serving different purposes across diverse sectors, all share the common thread of requiring detailed, accurate information to ensure the well-being and financial security of the individuals they serve.

Dos and Don'ts

The DD 2656 form, also known as the Data for Payment of Retired Personnel form, is a crucial document for military retirees. It facilitates the setup of retirement pay. When filling out this form, accuracy and attention to detail are paramount. Below are ten essential dos and don'ts to help ensure the process is completed efficiently and accurately.

Do:

Read the instructions carefully before filling out the form to ensure all sections are completed correctly.
Double-check your personal information, such as your full name, Social Security Number, and service number, for accuracy.
Ensure that your banking information, including the routing number and account number, is entered correctly to prevent delays in payment.
Review your beneficiary information to make sure it reflects your current wishes.
Sign and date the form in the designated areas to validate your submission.

Don't:

Rush through filling out the form without verifying the details of your entries.
Leave any required fields blank. If a section does not apply, mark it as "N/A."
Use pencil or erasable pens—always use black or blue ink for clarity and permanence.
Forget to update your contact information, especially if you've moved or changed phone numbers recently.
Overlook the need to submit supplementary documents that may be required along with your DD 2656 form.

Misconceptions

The DD Form 2656, or Data for Payment of Retired Personnel, plays a crucial role in the retirement process for military members. However, there are several misconceptions regarding this form that can lead to confusion. Let's address and clarify seven common misconceptions to ensure that service members and their families have accurate information.

It's only for active duty retirements. While commonly associated with active duty retirements, the DD Form 2656 is also critical for members of the reserve components who are qualifying for retired pay at age 60 (or earlier, under some circumstances).
You can only submit it at retirement. Although it’s essential to submit the DD Form 2656 around the time of retirement, it's possible and sometimes necessary to update information afterwards, such as changing beneficiaries or tax withholding preferences.
The Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) elections are permanent and cannot be changed. Initially, the SBP election made on the DD Form 2656 is considered final. However, there are specific life events (such as marriage or the death of a beneficiary) that allow for changes to these elections under certain conditions.
Submitting the form guarantees immediate retirement pay. While submitting this form is a critical step in processing retirement pay, the payment process also depends on completing all necessary paperwork and meeting all eligibility criteria. Delays can occur.
Electronic submission isn’t allowed. Some believe that this form must be printed and mailed. However, electronic submission methods are available and encouraged in some cases, offering a quicker and more secure way to transmit sensitive information.
It covers all retirement benefits. While the DD Form 2656 is essential for starting retirement pay, it does not encompass all benefits retirees may be eligible for. Veterans should also explore benefits through the VA and other organizations.
Assistance in filling out the form isn't necessary. Given its complexity and the long-term impact of the decisions made on the form, seeking assistance from a legal advisor or a trained military retirement specialist is highly advised to avoid mistakes and ensure that all benefits are accurately reflected.

Understanding these misconceptions about the DD Form 2656 can significantly smooth the transition into retirement for military members, ensuring they receive the benefits they have earned through their service. It's always a good idea to consult with a professional to get personalized advice tailored to your specific situation.

Key takeaways

The DD 2656 form, officially known as the Data for Payment of Retired Personnel, plays a crucial role for military retirees. Completing this form accurately ensures that retirees receive their earned benefits without delay. Here are seven key takeaways about filling out and using the DD 2656 form:

Timeliness is crucial: Submit the DD 2656 form before your retirement date to ensure that your benefits start flowing without interruption. Delays in submission can lead to delays in receiving your retirement pay.
Accuracy matters: Double-check your information, especially your Social Security Number, bank account details, and contact information. Incorrect information can lead to significant delays and complications.
Choose your beneficiary wisely: The form requires you to designate a beneficiary for certain benefits. Consider your decision carefully, as this choice determines who will receive benefits in the event of your death.
Understand the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) options: The DD 2656 form includes sections on the SBP, which provides ongoing income to your designated beneficiaries after your death. Understanding your options and the implications of each choice is vital for your family's financial planning.
Consider consulting with a professional: Given the importance of the decisions involved, consulting with a financial advisor or a retirement services officer can provide clarity and confidence in your choices.
Update as necessary: If your circumstances change (e.g., marital status, beneficiaries, or contact information), update your DD 2656 form. Keeping your information current ensures that benefits are distributed according to your latest wishes.
Keep a copy for your records: After submitting your DD 2656 form, keep a copy in a safe place. Having your own record can be invaluable for reference or if any disputes arise regarding your retirement benefits.

Proper completion and timely submission of the DD 2656 form are key steps in transitioning from active duty to retirement. By following these guidelines, retirees can help ensure a smooth process in securing their deserved benefits.

Please rate Free DD 2656 PDF Template Form

Excellent

2 Votes

Other PDF Templates

Best Lease Purchase Trucking Companies - A formal agreement detailing the expectations and responsibilities of both Carrier and Owner Operator in freight transportation, including compensation details.

A Job Briefing Is Not Required If the Job Doesn't Involve Live Work - Structured to support effective hazard communication, emergency readiness, and compliance with safety regulations.

Form Pa 1898 - Employers need to record whether the employee receives pay stubs, cash payments, or has online pay access.