Category:
Retiree - Ask a Question

Subcategory:
Survivor Benefit Plan - Questions

Created:
2025-05-08

Modified:
2025-05-08

Electing coverage after retirement

Question

If I elected not to participate in the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) for my spouse when I retired, can I elect spouse coverage now?

Answer

No. If you were married at retirement and you declined Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) coverage, there is no authority to elect spouse coverage after retirement unless Congress authorizes an SBP Open Season enrollment.  You can watch the DFAS quarterly Retiree Newsletters and our website. Please note that SBP Open Seasons are highly irregular and often limited in scope.

Current Viewer Rating for this FAQ 4 out of 5

Provide your input by Rating this FAQ - 5 is the best possible rating.