Can DFAS enroll me into Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) even if I declined?

2023-04-21T14:15:40-04:00

I need the communities help in resolving a survivor benefit plan (SBP) issue. When I retired, my wife and I declined the SBP plan it was also signed and notarized . This document was then faxed to DFAS by the transitioning office. A month letter I noticed that SBP was withdrawn after I left service. I called DFAS and they said that the faxed document did not show the notary stamp. I used the retirement services and resent the document followed up to ensure they got it and the seal was legible. It has been over 8 months and DFAS insists that they are sticking with their initial assessment and that I should go through the Army corrections board to have it fixed. This only adds more months to the process in the mean time DFAS is refusing to place a hold on the SBP until the issue is resolved. Also I am not even sure if DFAS will refund the money. What further action can I take?

Response by COL Randall C. made Apr 21 at 2023 2:36 PM

2023-04-21T14:36:00-04:00

I suggest you do both.

The 2023 NDAA allowed one of those rare open seasons for SBP enrollment and disenrollment. The period goes through until January 1, 2024.

You can disenroll now* and that will stop your payments while you go though the ABCMR.
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* https://www.dfas.mil/RetiredMilitary/provide/sbp/SBP-Open-Season-NDAA2023/#Discontinue

SBP Open Season NDAA2023

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Apr 21 at 2023 7:04 PM

2023-04-21T19:04:35-04:00

You both understand that this screws you wife out of all your pension money when you die right Top!

Response by CWO4 Miles Weaver made Jun 7 at 2023 5:35 PM

2023-06-07T17:35:50-04:00

Why do you not want the SBP? My brother declined it because he wanted as much money up front as he could get. He passed last year and his wife is now living on $1,400 a month which is his social security amount (it was higher than hers). If he had selected SBP when he retired, she would be getting another $2,800 per month. I selected SBP and my wife and I both selected the same option from out civilian jobs. Now, whichever one of is left will be able to continue our current lifestyle.