SBP & former spouse coverage

Published April 26, 2012
By Debra Kaiser, DM SBP Counselor

DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. -- If you are getting ready to retire and were previously married, it is a smart idea to review your divorce paperwork prior to making a decision concerning the Survivor Benefit Plan. Some former spouses will ask and receive SBP as a former spouse through official court orders. Please keep in mind that the language in the divorce decree should be very explicit. The wording must reference Survivor Benefit Plan, not just "retired pay." Although the two are intertwined, SBP and retired pay are two separate entities. If a retiree is court-ordered to provide Former Spouse coverage, he or she cannot cover a current or potential future spouse. To learn more about the complexities of Former Spouse Coverage and SBP, consult with your D-M SBP counselor at 228-5690.