Coverage for a former spouse is suspended if he/she remarries while under 55, during the period of the remarriage. The premiums are also suspended, effective the first day of the month after remarriage, as long as DFAS is provided with written notification and a copy of the former spouse's marriage certificate.

If the former spouse's remarriage ends by death or divorce, the coverage and premiums resume the first day of the month after the marriage ends.  The servicemember must provide DFAS with written notification and a copy of the divorce decree or death certificate terminating the former spouse's remarriage.

Remarriage by a former spouse over 55 does not affect coverage or premiums.

Only a former spouse's death terminates SBP coverage. Since federal law preempts state law, any decree which purports to terminate, rather than suspend, coverage upon a former spouse's remarriage is unenforceable.

Changing Former Spouse Coverage

DFAS can change former spouse coverage only under following circumstances:

1. If election was made pursuant to court order, provide DFAS with a certified copy of a subsequent court order relieving the servicemember of the obligation to cover the former spouse.
2. If the election was made by written agreement between the parties not adopted by a divorce court, provide DFAS with the former spouse's written acceptance of the change.
3. If the election was made voluntarily by the servicemember, and not as part of an agreement or dissolution, the servicemember can change it without the consent of the former spouse. However, DFAS will provide the former spouse with notice of the change.
4. Upon the death of the former spouse, provide DFAS with a copy of the former spouse's death certificate.

Contact DFAS

DFAS
U.S. Military Retirement Pay
PO Box 7130
London, KY 40742-7130
FAX: 1-800-469-6559