DD 2656 PDF Form

Detailed Instructions for Filling Out DD 2656

After dedicating years of service, transitioning from military to civilian life marks a significant change for service members. One crucial aspect of this transition involves making decisions about retirement pay. To ensure a smooth process and that retired service members receive their benefits in a timely manner, completing the DD Form 2656, also known as the Data for Payment of Retired Personnel Form, is essential. This document is a key piece in setting up retirement pay following a military career. Filling out this form accurately is vital to prevent any delays or issues with retirement pay distribution. Here are the steps needed to fill out the DD Form 2656 effectively:

1. Start by gathering all necessary information and documents, such as your military identification, social security number, bank account information for direct deposit, and information about any beneficiaries.
2. Section 1 requires the retiree’s personal information. Fill in your full legal name, social security number, date of birth, and contact details, including your phone number and email address.
3. In Section 2, you are asked about your marital status. If married, you’ll need to provide your spouse's information, including their full legal name, social security number, date of birth, and marriage date.
4. Section 3 focuses on beneficiary information for the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP), if applicable. Enter the necessary details of your chosen beneficiary or beneficiaries.
5. For those selecting SBP coverage, Section 4 requires information regarding the type of coverage and beneficiaries. Carefully select the options that best suit your intentions for your beneficiaries.
6. In Section 5, detail your current and former spouse information, if it applies. This is crucial for determining SBP eligibility and coverage.
7. Section 6 asks for dependent child information, which is particularly important if they are to be considered beneficiaries under your plan.
8. The form also requires financial information in Section 7 for setting up direct deposit of your retirement pay. Provide your bank’s routing number, account number, and the account type.
9. Review the form thoroughly to ensure all information is accurate and complete. Missing or incorrect information can lead to delays in processing your retirement pay.
10. Finally, sign and date the form in the designated area. Your signature is necessary to validate the information and requests on the form.

Once you have completed the form, follow the submission instructions you received from the Department of Defense or your specific branch of service. Timely submission is critical to ensure there are no delays in the commencement of your retirement pay. Remember, it's always a good idea to keep a copy of the completed form for your records.

1. What is the DD 2656 form used for?

   The DD 2656 form, known as the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) Retirement Pay Application, is a document used by retiring military service members. It's crucial for setting up retirement pay. Through this form, retirees provide their personal information, select payment options, and make decisions about taxes and survivor benefits. Filling out this form accurately ensures that retirees receive their benefits without any delays.

2. When should I submit the DD 2656 form?

   It's best to submit the DD 2656 form well before your retirement date, ideally six months prior. This gives enough time for processing and ensures your retirement pay starts flowing without interruption right after you retire. Late submissions may delay your benefits, so it’s key to be prompt.

3. Who needs to sign the DD 2656 form?

   The retiring service member must sign the form. If the form includes choices about survivor benefit plans, the spouse must also sign to acknowledge these decisions. This is especially important if the retiree chooses an option that requires spousal consent. Getting these signatures is a step that can't be skipped if you want your form processed smoothly.

4. Are there any parts of the form that are commonly filled out incorrectly?

   Yes, several sections are tricky:

   • Spousal consent section: This is often overlooked but is necessary if electing reduced survivor benefits or declining them entirely. Ensure this section is complete to prevent delays.
   • Beneficiary information: Double-check all names, social security numbers, and dates of birth. Mistakes here can lead to issues with beneficiary designations.
   • Tax withholding choices: It's important to understand your tax obligations and choose withholdings that best suit your financial situation. Errors here can affect your monthly pay.

   • Where can I find help filling out the DD 2656 form?

     Assistance with the DD 2656 form is available from several sources:

     • Your base's legal office or personnel center can provide guidance.
     • Retirement services offices are equipped to help with this specific form.
     • Financial counselors, particularly those who specialize in military benefits, can provide valuable insight.
     Don’t hesitate to reach out; utilizing these resources can help ensure the accuracy of your form.

   • What happens after I submit the DD 2656 form?

     After submission, the form is processed by DFAS. You will receive confirmation of your retirement pay setup. If there are any issues or missing information, DFAS will contact you to resolve them. Once everything is in order, your retirement pay begins based on the effective date of your retirement and the options you selected. Keep a copy of your completed form and any correspondence for your records.

Filling out government forms can be daunting, and the DD 2656 form, also known as the Data for Payment of Retired Personnel form, is no exception. It's a vital step for retiring military personnel to ensure they receive their retirement benefits without errors or delays. Unfortunately, several common mistakes are often made when completing this form.

One of the first errors involves not double-checking the personal information provided. This might seem basic, but incorrect details like an outdated address or a misspelled name can lead to significant processing delays. It's crucial to review every section carefully to ensure all personal information is accurate and current.

Another common issue is the failure to decide on a Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) option, or unclearly marking the chosen option. Retirees must make a clear decision regarding these benefits for their dependents, and any ambiguity here can complicate or delay the implementation of these benefits.

Errors in the spousal consent section are also frequent when the selected SBP option requires it. If a retiree opts for less than the maximum spousal benefit, the spouse must consent by signing the form. Failing to obtain this signature, or not having it properly witnessed, can invalidate the retiree’s elections.

Incorrect bank information for direct deposit is a particularly disruptive mistake. Inputting an incorrect account or routing number will block the retirement payments until corrected. It's essential to double-check the bank details for accuracy to ensure the timely processing of benefits.

Many retirees also forget to include necessary documentation, such as marriage certificates or divorce decrees, which are required to verify dependent eligibility for certain options on the DD 2656. Omitting these documents can halt the entire process.

A less obvious mistake is not considering tax implications. It is important to specify federal and state tax withholdings accurately to avoid unexpected liabilities or underwithholding issues. This selection should be made with a clear understanding of one’s tax situation.

Choosing an incorrect retirement date can also create processing problems. The date of retirement must align with official records; otherwise, it may lead to benefits being calculated incorrectly or delayed.

Failure to sign and date the form is another common, yet simple to avoid, mistake. An unsigned or undated form will not be processed, delaying the retirement pay.

Lastly, not keeping a copy of the completed form for personal records can lead to difficulties if there are disputes or questions about the retiree’s elections later. It's always advisable to keep a copy of all submitted forms and correspondence related to retirement.

Avoiding these mistakes requires a detail-oriented approach and a thorough understanding of the form’s instructions. By paying close attention to each section and seeking clarification if needed, retirees can ensure a smooth transition to their post-service life.

The DD 2656 form, also known as the Data for Payment of Retired Personnel form, plays a crucial role in the transition from active duty to retired life for military personnel. It is essential for initiating retirement pay. However, completing this form is not the only step in securing retirement benefits. There are several other forms and documents that service members should be prepared to manage during this process. Each serves a distinct purpose and is vital to ensure a smooth transition and the securing of all entitled benefits.

• DD 214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty): This document is arguably the most well-known and important for veterans. It provides a comprehensive record of a service member's time in the military, including their rank, dates of service, awards, and the reason for discharge. It is fundamental when applying for government benefits, including retirement pay.
• DD 2656-1 (Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) Election Statement for Former Spouse Coverage): This form accompanies the DD 2656 for those who choose to elect SBP coverage for a former spouse. It outlines the agreement and ensures that the chosen beneficiaries are documented and benefits are correctly allocated.
• DD 2656-2 (Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) Termination Request): This form is used if a retiree wishes to cancel their SBP coverage. It is crucial to remember that cancellation requests are time-sensitive and have specific eligibility requirements.
• DD 2656-5 (Reserve Component Survivor Benefit Plan (RCSBP) Election Certificate): Reserved for members of the Reserve Component, this document is used to elect participation in the RCSBP, allowing for the continuation of benefits to survivors.
• DD 2656-6 (Survivor Benefit Plan Election Change Certificate): This form allows for changes to previously elected SBP coverage options. Life events such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child may necessitate modifications to a retiree's SBP elections.
• IRS Form W-4V (Voluntary Withholding Request): To manage tax withholdings from retirement pay, this form allows retirees to specify the amount of federal income tax to be withheld. Adjusting withholding amounts can help manage tax liabilities and ensure compliance with federal tax requirements.

Navigating the transition to retirement from the military requires attention to detail and an understanding of the necessary paperwork. The DD 2656 form is the starting point for this journey, but it is by no means the only document to consider. Each form and document serves a purpose in ensuring that retirees receive the benefits they have earned through their service, and handling them correctly can significantly impact the post-military life of a service member and their loved ones. It is advisable for individuals approaching military retirement to seek guidance and ensure that all forms are accurately completed and submitted timely.

• DD Form 214: Both DD Form 2656 and DD Form 214 are critical for military personnel transitioning to civilian life. While DD Form 2656 is used to enroll in the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) for retired pay, DD Form 214 is required for veterans to prove their military service and discharge status. Each form serves as a key document for military members, facilitating access to different sets of benefits and services post-service.

• VA Form 21-526EZ: Similar to DD Form 2656, the VA Form 21-526EZ is utilized for benefits enrollment—specifically for veterans to apply for disability compensation and related benefits. Both forms play pivotal roles in ensuring veterans receive the benefits they are entitled to, albeit for different purposes: retirement pay and disability benefits, respectively.

• Standard Form 3107: This form is the civilian equivalent to DD Form 2656, used by federal employees to apply for retirement benefits through the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS). Like DD Form 2656, SF 3107 is an integral document for initiating the processing of retirement benefits, tailored to a specific workforce sector.

• IRS Form W-4V: While DD Form 2656 facilitates the enrollment in military retired pay, IRS Form W-4V is used to voluntarily withhold taxes from certain government payments, such as social security benefits. The similarity lies in the financial planning aspect for individuals receiving government benefits, aiding in the management of tax liabilities.

• SBP Election Statement for Former Spouse Coverage (DD Form 2656-1): Directly related, DD Form 2656-1 is an extension of DD Form 2656, specifically designed for retirees to elect Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) coverage for a former spouse. The close connection comes from the process of ensuring financial protection for beneficiaries after the retiree's death, indicating the detailed planning involved in military retirement benefits.

• TSP-70, Request for Full Withdrawal: TSP-70 is used by participants of the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) to request a full withdrawal of their account. This form shares a purpose with DD Form 2656 in terms of financial transition planning, though TSP-70 focuses on investment accounts for federal employees and service members, marking another step in the retirement process.

• SBP Application for Child Annuitant (DD Form 2656-6): This is another document associated with the Survivor Benefit Plan, specifically for enrolling a child as an annuitant. Similar to DD Form 2656-1, DD Form 2656, and DD Form 2656-6 all collaborate in the arrangement of post-retirement benefits, ensuring the financial security of a member's beneficiaries.

When preparing to fill out the DD 2656 form, which is crucial for securing retirement benefits, paying attention to both the dos and don'ts is essential. This guidance ensures the information provided is accurate and the process moves smoothly. Below are lists of what individuals should and shouldn't do when handling this form.

Things You Should Do

1. Read the instructions carefully before filling out the form to avoid common mistakes.
2. Ensure all personal information is accurate and up-to-date, including your full legal name and Social Security Number.
3. If choosing direct deposit, double-check the bank account and routing numbers to prevent delays in payment.
4. Review and decide on the Survivor Benefit Plan options if applicable. This choice is important for the future well-being of your beneficiaries.
5. Sign and date the form in the designated areas to certify that all information is correct and complete.
6. Keep a copy of the completed form for your records to reference if any issues arise.

Things You Shouldn't Do

• Do not leave any required fields blank. If a section does not apply, mark it as "N/A" (Not Applicable).
• Avoid using nicknames or abbreviations. Always use your full legal name as it appears on official documents.
• Do not rush through filling out the form. Taking your time can help prevent errors.
• Avoid making assumptions about what is being asked. If you're unsure, seek clarification.
• Do not forget to choose a beneficiary for any applicable benefits. This decision is crucial.
• Do not neglect to update your DD 2656 form if your circumstances change, such as a change in marital status or the birth of a child.

The DD 2656 form, often referred to as the Data for Payment of Retired Personnel form, is crucial for those approaching military retirement. Yet, several misconceptions surround its importance, use, and implications. It’s essential to unpack these misunderstandings to ensure military personnel can navigate their transition into retirement smoothly and securely.

• It's Only About Direct Deposit: Many think the DD 2656 form just tells the Department of Defense where to send your retirement check. While it includes banking information for direct deposit, the form also gathers crucial details like beneficiary information for the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP), federal and state tax withholdings, and other critical retirement options.
• Survivor Benefit Plan Elections Are Permanent: There’s a common belief that once you make your SBP election on the DD 2656, it’s set in stone. In reality, while some choices are difficult to change, there are specific life events, such as marriage, divorce, or the death of a beneficiary, that allow for modifications to your SBP elections.
• It Must Be Submitted Immediately After Retirement: Timing is essential, but there is a common misunderstanding about how soon the DD 2656 needs to be submitted. Ideally, it should be completed and handed in before retirement to ensure uninterrupted benefits, but there’s a brief period post-retirement where forms can still be processed, though delays in benefits might occur.
• Only Personnel Can Complete It: While service members are primarily responsible for their DD 2656 form, it’s advisable to include spouses or significant others in the process. The form includes decisions, especially concerning the SBP, that significantly affect family members.
• Filling Out the Form Guarantees Benefits: Completing the DD 2656 is a critical step in securing retirement benefits, but it doesn’t automatically ensure all benefits commence. Additional verifications and approvals are part of the process before benefits are disbursed.
• No Updates Necessary After Submission: Life changes, such as moving to a new state, can affect tax withholdings and other information on the DD 2656. Service members should update their form to reflect significant life events or changes to personal information.
• It’s Only for Active-Duty Retirees: The DD 2656 form is mistakenly thought to be only for those retiring from active duty. However, members of the Reserve Component who are eligible for retired pay at age 60 (or earlier in some cases), also need to submit this form.
• Separation Health and Dental Benefits are Included: Some retirees mistakenly believe that completing the DD 2656 will enroll them in health and dental coverage post-retirement. While the form does enroll you in retirement pay, enrolling in health and dental plans is a separate process that requires additional actions.

Understanding these eight misconceptions about the DD 2656 form can alleviate a significant portion of the stress that comes with transitioning from military to civilian life. Armed with accurate information, retirees can make informed decisions that optimally benefit their post-retirement future.

The DD 2656 form, known as the Data for Payment of Retired Personnel, is critical for those transitioning from active duty to retired status in the military. This document serves as a formal request for retirement pay, and its accurate completion is essential for ensuring that retirees receive their benefits in a timely manner. Here are six key takeaways about filling out and using the DD 2656 form:

1. Accuracy is crucial: Ensure all information is accurate to prevent delays in retirement pay. Double-check personal information, such as social security numbers and banking details, for errors.
2. Timing matters: Submit the DD 2656 as soon as possible after receiving retirement orders. There is a window of opportunity that, if missed, could result in a delay of benefits.
3. Understand your options: The DD 2656 form includes various sections that require decisions about survivor benefits, tax withholdings, and specific allotments. Understanding these options before completing the form allows for informed decision-making.
4. Seek assistance if needed: Completing the DD 2656 form can be complex. Assistance from a knowledgeable source, such as a Veterans Affairs office or a military retirement counselor, can provide valuable guidance.
5. Keep a copy: Once submitted, keep a copy of the DD 2656 form for personal records. This document will be important for future reference, especially in situations where discrepancies or questions about retirement pay arise.
6. Updating information: If personal information or banking details change after submission, it is necessary to update the relevant sections of the DD 2656 form to ensure continuous receipt of retirement benefits.