The DD Form 2656-2 can be filled out online using FormsPal's PDF editor. Follow the steps below to fill out and submit your SBP election change request quickly and accurately.
Step 1: Click the "Get Form" button at the top of this page to access our PDF editor.
Step 2: Fill in the required information in each field. The form requests your name, Social Security number, grade or rank at retirement, and the date of the qualifying life event that provides the means to change your SBP election.
Step 3: Indicate the type of coverage change you are requesting. Specify whether you are adding a new beneficiary, removing a current beneficiary, or updating coverage levels. Provide sensitive personal details about the beneficiary, the effective date of the qualifying life event, and any supporting documentation required by DFAS. Retirees entitled to a coverage change must notify DFAS within the window provided by law, typically one year from the qualifying event date.
Step 4: Review all entries before clicking "Done." Once satisfied, you will receive your completed PDF in your FormsPal account for immediate download. Submit the form to DFAS or your branch's designated finance office by the required date. Keep a copy of all submitted documentation for your records. FormsPal's secure platform ensures private data and sensitive information remain protected throughout the process.
Frequently Asked Questions About DD Form 2656-2
Who is entitled to file DD Form 2656-2?
Any military retiree who has experienced a qualifying life event, such as marriage after retirement, divorce, birth or adoption of a dependent, or death of an SBP beneficiary, is entitled to request an election change. SBP participation rules mean these situations provide the only authorized means to change coverage outside the standard two-year voluntary termination window.
What information is provided on the form?
The form collects the retiree's personal information, the type of coverage being requested or terminated, beneficiary details, the effective date of the qualifying event, and a signed certification. Sensitive personal details, including the beneficiary's Social Security number, are required by DFAS for processing.
How does an election change affect retired pay?
SBP coverage is deducted directly from retired pay. Adding a spouse beneficiary under SBP participation costs 6.5% of the elected base amount per month. Child-only coverage costs 2%. When a change is approved, DFAS will notify the retiree and adjust the deduction from retired pay accordingly. Retirees receive an updated retiree account statement reflecting the new coverage and pay deduction.
What situations qualify for requesting a change?
Qualifying situations are defined in Title 10, U.S.C. and are provided to retirees in SBP open enrollment communications issued by DFAS. Common situations include remarriage, divorce, and changes in dependent status. Each situation has a specific requesting window. Contact DFAS directly for confirmation of eligibility in your circumstances.
For related DD 2656 forms, see: DD Form 2656 (initial SBP election at retirement), DD Form 2656-1 (SBP beneficiary change), and DD Form 2656-5 (voluntary SBP termination).