Survivor Benefit Plan
Enrollment in an annuity plan is a decision that requires careful consideration. If you are considering enrolling in an annuity plan, you should review the:- advantages and disadvantages
- costs
- beneficiaries eligible for coverage
- limitations on leaving or changing coverage
The Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP), Reserve Component Survivor Benefit Plan (RC-SBP) and Retired Serviceman's Family Protection Plan (RSFPP) provide eligible beneficiaries with a form of benefit called an "annuity." An annuity is a monthly payment for the lifetime of the beneficiary. The amount of the benefit is a percentage of your retirement benefit based on your election.
Enrollment in an annuity plan is not automatic and there are costs. If you are enrolled you will pay premiums for your SBP coverage. In addition you can only leave an annuity to eligible beneficiaries.
Election to participate in these programs is generally made at the time of retirement, although some situations allow a retiree to add coverage after retirement. In most cases, costs to participate are deducted from the retiree's monthly pay and are based on the amount of coverage a retiree elects.